Tawonga - Parents Only (FAQs)

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Have a different question not listed here? Contact us to get an answer from a Tawonga director!

My child has never been to camp and doesn't know anyone. Do your counselors know what to do?

YES. Every session has a mix of new and returning campers. Tawonga has built its reputation as a warm, welcoming place for every child by paying careful attention to the emotional experience of each and every camper. We create a non-competitive environment in which there is no hierarchy between kids. Our group-centered philosophy brings kids of diverse experience and backgrounds together and facilitates deep and lasting friendships. Remember, everyone has a first summer at camp.

I'm worried my child will be homesick. Are you ready for this?

YES. Homesickness is a natural feeling. We carefully train our cabin counselors to have one-on-one conversations with homesick kids to help them get into the groove of camp and make new friends. And, it's been our experience that this individual attention works: by the 2nd day of camp, the vast majority of homesick kids are feeling happy. In more serious cases, our management team of directors, therapist, nurse and Unit Heads are brought in to make a plan for success. In rare cases, we'll call parents for additional help.

Our family has a decent income but camp still feels out of reach. Can we qualify for financial assistance?

We recognize that the expense of summer camp may feel out of reach even for families with an otherwise comfortable income. Assistance is provided confidentially, in a way that reflects not just your income but also special circumstances. You should definitely apply. To see a full list of financial options, call us at 415.543.2267, or click here.

My kids are really picky eaters. Will they like the food at camp?

YES. We are prepared for a variety of diets including vegetarian, vegan, and lactose intolerant as well as other allergy restrictions. Meals are served family style. In addition to the main entrees there is always peanut butter (or sunflower butter) and jelly as well as egg or tuna salad for personal sandwich making. Outdoor BBQs feature hot dogs, hamburgers, chicken and veggie burgers as well as salads and fresh fruit. Food at Tawonga us kosher style-we don't mix milk and meat and we never serve non-kosher foods such as pork and shellfish.

My child has never backpacked and doesn't have a pack. Is this pretty typical?

YES. Our Wilderness Leaders are experienced back-country experts chosen for their sensitivity and their ability to help kids feel comfortable in nature. They select destinations that match the ability and interests of each cabin group and are dedicated to making the overnight experience fun, positive, and group-building. We have a full inventory of backpacks, stoves and all the gear necessary for safe, exciting overnights in Yosemite and the surrounding National Forest. Your child just needs to bring a sleeping bag and comfortable hiking shoes.

We've heard so much about Camp Tawonga and would love to see it. Can parents visit camp?

Yes. And no. Yes, you should bring your whole family up for a weekend program at Tawonga to meet our wonderful staff, see our beautiful property and get a taste of the Tawonga experience. Or, you can call us and arrange to join us for lunch and a tour during one of these weekends. But no, you cannot visit your child while they are attending a session at camp. This would interfere with you and your child making a healthy separation, which is a big part of the way kids gain confidence and maturity at camp.

How Jewish is Camp Tawonga?

The Jewish feeling at Tawonga is a happy blend of cultural pride and a warm welcome to kids of all backgrounds. Tawonga campers include kids who are very connected (through synagogue, JCC or day school), some kids for whom Tawonga is their primary Jewish experience, plus a few who are not Jewish. They all share great Jewish experiences because we offer - and never force - a positive, fun, inspirational and uplifting "buffet" of Jewish learning. Joyous Friday Night Shabbat dinners, engaging Saturday morning services and daily spirited blessings at meals are natural parts of the Tawonga way.

Have a different question? Email info@tawonga.org, to get an answer from a Tawonga expert.