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Ekocamp International
International Summer Camp in Canada

Answers to Frequently Asked Questions from parents

Table of Contents

  1. Is it cold in August?
  2. What happens if my child becomes ill or has an accident?
  3. Do you have formal language courses?
  4. Is the program competitive?
  5. Why is there a minimum 2-week stay?
  6. For how long should I send my child to the camp?
  7. How do the campers get to the camp from the airport?
  8. When should I register?
  9. Is it necessary to arrive on a Friday?
  10. Can you prepare a special event, such as a birthday party, for a camper?
  11. Do I get a refund if my child, after being registered, cannot come to the camp?
  12. What documents are required by an American citizen entering Canada?
  13. Do I need a visa?
  14. Any other questions?
Is it cold in August?
The days are usually warm (25 C), sometimes even hot (30 C). The mornings and nights are colder than in July and the temperature may drop to 15 C. We therefore recommend that your child brings some warm clothes.

What happens if my child becomes ill or has an accident?
All staff members are trained in First Aid and safety procedures are reviewed throughout the summer. Campers are always reminded of safety rules in order that they may enjoy the camp in a safe manner.
The camp has an infirmary and a doctor is available on call at the nearby town of St. Jovite (3 Kms./2 miles). A fully-equipped regional hospital is only 20 minutes away. Ekocamp is regularly inspected and maintains the high standards required by the Quebec Ministry of Health and the Quebec Camping Association.

Do you have formal language courses?
Yes. Here is a brief description
  • 15 hours of language training per week;
  • Qualified and experienced teachers;
  • A maximum of 10 students per group allowing for full participation by all students;
  • All books and educational materials provided for the course at no extra charge;
  • Diplomas certifying efforts and achievements for each participant.
     

Is the program competitive?
No! To enjoy the rugged benefits of nature takes teamwork. Campers will discover the joys and rewards of cooperation, just as they will discover a new potential within themselves.

Why is there a minimum 2-week stay?
It is important to be able to get used to a new physical and linguistic environment. This takes a few days and it is only then that a new camper can expect to receive the full benefits of the range of activities offered.

For how long should I send my child to the camp?
We believe that two weeks allows for minimal benefits and an extra week is preferable, if possible.
Many of the Canadian campers stay at camp for a short period. In consequence we repeat the activities on a two weeks cycle. If a camper stays more than 4 weeks he may become bored and we will loose his new friends. As a result we do not recommend a stay longer than 4 weeks unless the camper spent a long period of time at another camp and is very well aware of the way we work.
However the optimum stay depends to a large degree on the personality and previous camping experience of your child.

How do the campers get to the camp from the airport?
An Ekocamp representative will meet the children at the airport and transfer them directly to the camp. 

When should I register?
In order to insure a place during your preferred period, the sooner you register your child the better the chance of being accepted. Last year the camp was full for July at the end of April. We offer a discount for early registration. Montreal is a popular destination in summer. Don't forget you also have to book a flight early.

Is it necessary to arrive on a Friday?
Camp begins on Fridays and we charge an airport transfer fee for arrivals and departures on Fridays. If a camper's plane arrives on any other day, it will be met at the airport in the same way. However, please note that we must charge a larger amount for each trip to the airport on any day other than Friday.

Can you prepare a special event, such as a birthday party, for a camper?
Yes and we are happy to do so. Although we do not encourage parents to contribute in an extravagant manner, we can provide a special meal for your child and the other campers of the same age group. We can also arrange for a musician and/or other entertainers to be at the camp for any special occasion.

Do I get a refund if my child, after being registered, cannot come to the camp?
In the event that you wish to cancel the registration of your child at Ekocamp, simply write and let us know. We will immediately refund the total amount paid, less the sum of CAD$ 250 for administration. The cancellation must be notified by fax six weeks prior to the start of your child's camping stay.

What documents are required by an American citizen entering Canada?
Both American and Canadian governments recommend the presentation of a passport by U.S. citizens in order to enter Canada. If this is not possible, presentation of a birth certificate is required (along with another photo I.D. such as school identification). If parents are not accompanying the child, a Letter of Permission to travel must be signed by both parents.

Any other questions?

Don't hesitate to fax, , write or telephone us with any further inquiry. We'll be happy to help!