Sea Camp Frequently Asked Questions

1. How many instructors and children are there for each camp? There are two instructors and 13 children per camp.  Our vehicles can only accommodate 15 passengers, so we are unable to add more children to the camp size.

2. What is the age range for the children? Our camps are for children ages 6 to 17.  Children MUST be registered in a camp that is appropriate for their age. NO exceptions will be made. Junior camp is for children ages 6-8.  Senior camp is for children ages 9-12.  Teen camp is for children ages 13-17.  Children must be at least 6 years of age.  Again, NO exceptions will be made.
 
3. My child is advanced for his/her age; can he/she attend a different age group? No. The child must be the age of the appropriate camp. We are not equipped to test children for their abilities, therefore we go by age.

4. Do children bring their own lunches and beverages? Yes. Children need a lot of fluids and parents should try to avoid soda and sweet drinks. Sport drinks, such as Gatorade, or water work best.
 
5. What should parents pack for their child? They should pack as if the child is going to the beach for the day. Include items such as sun block, fluids (water, juice or sports drinks work best- stay clear of caffeine), lunch, change of clothes, etc.

6. Can parents tag along with their children in the camp? No and absolutely no exceptions will be made. To make the camp experience the same for all children, parents are not permitted to participate in camp activities.

7. What is the background of the instructors? They are local teachers or graduate students at the university. Our instructors are CPR and first aid certified. Most of our instructors have experience from our camp or from other camps in the past.

8. Are there lifeguards on the beaches the children will visit during field trips? Yes.  We only visit beaches with lifeguards. Instructors also keep close tabs on the children.  Children are not permitted to go very deep in the water.

9. Are refunds given? Yes.  However, a refund will only be given with more than one week notice before the start date of the camp your child is registered for.  No exceptions will be made.

10. Is there a waiting list I can put my child on for a specific camp if that camp is already closed? Yes.  A child can be put on a waiting list for a camp in their age group. The Sea Camp Coordinator will need to get the child's name, parent's name and a phone number the parent can be reached at. This will be logged on the waiting list for the appropriate camp. We will contact the parent if there is an opening in a camp. If the parent wants to register their child then, they will need to fax or mail the registration form to Continuing Education.

11. Can I put my name on a mailing list to have information sent to me about Sea Camp? Yes.  Please contact our main office at 757-683-4285 and ask to have your name added to our mailing list.  We will be sure to send you a welcome packet.

12. Will transportation be provided for the children to/from camps? No.  It is the parents' responsibility to drop off and pick up their children at the Oceanography and Physics building at Old Dominion.
 
13. What type of transportation is used by the camp? Departmental vans. Each van seats 13 children and 2 instructors. Each child does have their own seat belt and instructors make sure each child is secure prior to departure.

14. Do we accommodate children with "special needs" (i.e. Physical disabilities, behavioral problems, etc.)? Unfortunately our camp is not set up to accommodate physical disabilities (wheelchairs etc.). Any child is welcome to attend camp but no special accommodations are able to be made at this time.
 
15. Can instructors give medications? No.  Absolutely no exceptions will be made.

 16. What types of activities are in the camp curriculum? The curriculum is set up to combine education and fun. The children will learn about marine science during their daily field trips and sampling of the local waters. Camp activities are geared for the appropriate age group in a hands-on, fun and exciting setting.
 
17. Is there before and after care? No.  The camp does not provide before and after care. Parents need to ensure that they are prompt in dropping off and picking up their children.

18. Does my child need to know how to swim? Yes.  We do ask that your child has some experience swimming as they will be in and around the water quite often.  It is a sea camp and therefore water activities are part of the curriculum.