Information for International Parents
Hola! Bonjour! Hallo! Ciao! Ola!
In addition to the details listed on the "Information for Parents" page, this page will address some of the specific concerns about sending your child to a wonderful, accredited overnight camp in America!
What languages are spoken at camp?
Although English is the primary language, each summer a variety of languages can be heard at camp. We have had campers from Columbia, Spain, France, Italy, the Netherlands and Sweden to name a few. In addition, we hire approximately ten international staff from a variety of countries. So even if there is not another camper from your home country attending the sessions that your camper does, our international staff are exceptionally sympathetic and understanding.
Do you provide transportation to/from the airport?
We offer limited transportation to and from Boston's Logan International Airport and Camp Frank A. Day. We will be doing airport pick-ups and drop-offs on the following days only: June 27, July 11, July 25, August 7 and August 14. Arriving flights must be between 12:00-17:00 Eastern Standard Time (EST) and departing flights must be between 12:00-19:30 EST. The cost is $125 and includes transportation both ways. Please contact the Camping Services staff at campingservices@westsuburbanymca.org or +1-617-244-6050 ext.3008 to add-on this service. You will receive a travel confirmation with detailed information approximately one week prior to the start of your camper's session. If you are unable to book flights that meet all of the above criteria, you will be responsible for arranging your camper's transportation to/from camp.
How can I communicate with my camper?
Upon arrival at camp, you will receive a phone call confirming that your camper has arrived safely at Camp Frank A. Day. Your camper, like all campers, will not be allowed to phone you at his/her convenience. We suggest that you email your camper using our parent email system through Bunk1.com; instructions can be found in the family handbook. We also recommend that you send your camper with writing materials so s/he can write you letters home. We'll provide the stamps for your camper! Since most international parents will not be able to visit on Visiting Days, we are happy to arrange a time in which you can call the camp office and speak with your camper over the phone.
Is there anything else my camper needs to bring besides the items listed in the Family Handbook?
If your camper is brining any electrical appliances (i.e. hair dryers, shavers), s/he should bring electrical plug adapters. The U.S. operates on a 110-volt system, and uses a plug with two flat parallel prongs. Most newer U.S. electrical outlets will have a third, round, ground hole. A two-prong plug will still work in a three-hole outlet.
It is strongly recommended that you send your child with approximately $20-50 US currency per session that s/he is registered. This will allow him/her to get a snack at the airport, have spending money for field trips and purchase some souvenirs. In addition, you may want to send a separate envelope of money to tip your child's counselor at the end of his/her stay. All money should be given to the camp director on arrival to camp so that it can be locked up safely until it is needed.
