It's exciting getting ready to go to camp. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions to help you have the best camp experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
I have a 4/5-year-old. How do I register them for camp?
Day Camp is for campers between the ages of 6-15 years old. Campers must be 6-years-old prior to the week they are registered to attend Day Camp.
If you are interested in summer care for your 4/5 year old, please email ccareadmin@ymachbb.ca for more information about our Kinder Connections program.
How do I find the right program for my child (aged 6-15)?
Check out our 2025 Field Guide for an overview of each program we offer. If you are still unsure, please email ymcadaycamps@ymcahbb.ca for more information.
Do you offer 1:1 support during camp?
Yes. Please waitlist your child for our Helping Hands program when registering. If space is available, a member of the Helping Hands team will contact you to complete an intake for your child. Please note, this program is in high demand so please register early to avoid disappointment. If you have any questions, please email helpinghands@ymcahbb.ca.
Do you provide extended hours?
Yes. Camp runs from 9:00 AM-4:00 PM.
Licensed Extended Care runs between 7:00 AM-9:00 AM and 4:00 PM-6:00 PM at an additional cost. Please see the Field Guide for more details and locations.
Is there busing available?
Yes, we provide bussing for all outdoor camps at Christie Lake Conservation Area from a variety of community bus routes in Hamilton, Burlington and Brantford. Please see the Field Guide for more details and locations.
What do I do if my child is going to be absent?
Email the Day Camp Office at ymcadaycamps@ymcahbb.ca or call 905-317-4929 with your child’s name, camp program, and reason for absence.
Who do I contact if I will be late dropping off or need to pick my child up early?
Please call the Day Camp office at 905-317-4929 to ensure we are able to alert camp staff.
Who can pick up my child? Can my child sign themselves out?
Only individuals 16+ listed as an Authorized Pick-Up during the registration process will be permitted to sign campers out. Authorized pick-ups including parents/caregivers will be required to show valid, government-issued photo ID daily.
What happens if my child is not picked up on time?
A Late Fee will be applied to your account for every 30 minutes late (or part thereof). If you encounter an emergency situation and are unable to pick up your child as planned, please let us know by calling the Day Camp Office at 905-317-4929.
Am I allowed to visit my child during the program?
For the safety of everyone involved, visitors are not permitted inside the program.
Can my child be grouped with a friend?
Yes. Please add the child’s name and age to the Grouping Requests section of the Camper Information Form when registering. Groupings are not guaranteed; however, we will do our best to accommodate. *Note: Children must be similar in age.
At Camp Chippewa, campers must be in the same section to be placed in a group together.
What happens if it rains or is very hot at Christie Lake?
Pavilion shelters are available in the event of rain, and planned activities will be modified. Frequent breaks and additional water-based activities are scheduled in the event of extreme heat.
How will the staff communicate with me?
The YMCA will send out a weekly newsletter to all families the Thursday before indicating what to expect for the coming week of camp. Should we need to reach you in case of an emergency, we will contact the phone number listed on your camp account. If we are not able to reach you, we will email you and do our best to connect with one of the listed Emergency Contacts for your child.
Do you have a Lost and Found?
Yes. Please reach out to ymcadaycamps@ymcahbb.ca with your child’s name and a description of the item(s) you are missing. After two weeks, all unclaimed items will be donated.
Please label all your child’s belongings to help us ensure you are reunited with your items!
Will lunch be provided?
No. Please pack a lunch for your child. Children will not have access to a microwave or refrigerator. Please do not send items that need to be heated up. Sharing of food will not be permitted. All items must be nut-free.
What should my child bring in their backpack?
- A litter less and nutritious lunch and snacks that will fuel them for an active day
- A reusable water bottle
- A hat
- A light jacket
- A bathing suit and towel or change of clothes for swimming
- Running shoes and appropriate clothing for physical activity and the weather
- Sunscreen/bug spray* (recommended for outdoor programming at Christie Lake)
How do I make changes to my child’s registration?
Please email ymcadaycamps@ymcahbb.ca with any changes, including your child’s name and the required changes. No other method of communication will be accepted.
All changes must be submitted a minimum of 10 business days before the registered camp week.
The YMCA offers one complimentary change to your child’s enrollment. A $30 Administration Fee will be applied per child for any additional changes.
What is the cancellation/refund policy?
Any refunds requested after May 14, 2025 will be subject to a $30 Administration Fee (per camper). No refunds or cancellations will be accepted if less than 10 business days are given.
Do you offer financial assistance?
If you are looking for financial assistance for 1-2 weeks of camp, book an online financial assistance appointment.
Who do I contact if I have a compliment, concern, or complaint?
Please email the Day Camp Office at ymcadaycamps@ymcahbb.ca.
My child is currently on a break in service from a YMCA program, will this affect camp?
We recommend connecting with the Day Camp Manager to discuss your child’s current break in service. This conversation will help us determine whether a summer camp experience would be a good fit at this time.
