Summer is fast approaching, and with it comes the excitement of sending our kids off to camp. As a seasoned parent of a Muskoka Woods guest, I understand the mix of emotions that come with preparing for this adventure. To ensure your child’s experience is as smooth and enjoyable as possible, here’s a handy guide to the top five things you absolutely must take care of in advance of the sun and fun at summer camp.
1. Update Your Account: It’s All About Safety
Before your child heads off to the adventure of a lifetime, take a moment to ensure all the necessary details in your Muskoka Woods account are up to date. First and foremost, complete the medical form to ensure the summer camp staff are well-informed about any health concerns. Additionally, don’t forget to add a profile photo of your child. This not only helps counsellors give them a warm and accurate welcome, but it also assists with authorized pick-ups. Plus, updating and/or confirming your address ensures your child receives those cherished postcards in the fall from their counsellors!
2. Review Your Registration: Customize Your Child’s Experience
Log in to your account and take a thorough look at your registration to make sure you’ve booked everything your child needs for an unforgettable stay. If they’re staying for multiple weeks, consider adding the laundry service for extra convenience. Muskoka Woods also offers a range of exciting additional options like the Kraken Pass, Camp Essentials Kit, and more! And don’t forget to top up your Camp Store money — trust me, a little extra goes a long way for snacks and souvenirs.
3. Plan Your Route: Smooth Sailing Ahead
Planning your journey to Muskoka Woods is crucial for a stress-free start to camp. Check the traffic in advance, especially as cottage country roads can get busy on weekends. Review the drop-off and pick-up times from the Parent’s Guide and aim to arrive based on your last name to help reduce congestion. If you arrive early, there may be a long lineup of cars outside of the gate, but once the gates open, the drop-off process is quick, smooth and friendly.
Reward yourself afterward with a nice dinner at Crossroads Restaurant, which is just down the road from Muskoka Woods in the town of Rosseau. If you’re looking to enjoy some R & R while you’re kid-free for a week (or more), here are 10 things you can finally do while the kids are at summer camp. You’ve earned it!
If you’re unsure about tackling the traffic, why not opt for Muskoka Woods’ shuttle bus service? It’s a comfortable and hassle-free way for your child to travel, plus it’s a fantastic opportunity for them to start making camp friends before they even arrive! Transportation to and from Muskoka Woods is coordinated in Vaughn, Ont. Reserve your child’s spot now by logging in to your account.
4. Finalize Your Packing List: Essentials Only
Save yourself from the packing panic by following Muskoka Woods’ essential packing list, which is conveniently offered as a printable PDF. Label all your child’s clothing to avoid mix-ups and losses, and remember to leave valuables like jewellery and electronics at home — they won’t need them at camp, and it’s best not to risk losing them. Tailor your packing, ensuring your child has the right gear for all the fun they’ll be having. Don’t forget to pack sunscreen — pack all the sunscreen! Bug spray is also recommended as there are mosquitos at dusk.
5. Coordinate Communication: Stay Connected
Keep in touch with your child and stay in the loop on their Muskoka Woods adventure by signing up for Bunk1. This handy mobile app provides a direct line of communication, allowing you to send digital notes and view photos throughout their camp stay. Bunk1’s facial recognition software ensures you receive every photo taken of your child at summer camp — another important reason to upload a profile photo of your child on your account. And if you’ve decided to send your child with a mobile device, remember to rent a Yondr Pouch to ensure it stays safe and secure according to camp policy. You can learn more about Yondr Pouch rentals in Muskoka Woods’ Cell Phone Policy.
With these five essential tasks checked off your list, you can rest assured that your child is ready for an incredible summer at Muskoka Woods. So pack their bags, send them off with a smile, and get ready for them to return with stories of a lifetime! For all additional information, be sure to check out Muskoka Woods’ FAQ page.
