JCC Summer Sports Camps Frequently Asked Questions
What is the camp application process?
Please register either online or with the JCC Summer Sports Camp Registration Form (pdf) and and complete the Bus Schedule if needed. Hard copy registrants should include a check payable to JCCGB and should be returned to JCC Summer Sports Camps, Jewish Community Centers of Greater Boston, 333 Nahanton Street, Newton, MA 02459.
If you register online, please also complete the registration form (pdf), omitting payment information, and return to JCC Summer Sports Camps as noted above.
Children may not participate in camp activities until a completed application form, payment in full, and a medical form are received by the JCC
What transportation options are available?
Bus service is provided from Brookline, Wayland, and Framingham (see bus schedule); please note that bus transportation is separate and not included in camp tuition.
What is the Jewish content of the camp? Does my child have to be Jewish/have a strong Jewish background to attend and be successful?
JCC Sports Camps are secular programs. Everyone is welcome; no Jewish background or education is required or expected.
What should campers bring to camp?
Every camper should bring a kosher lunch, kosher snack, water bottle, sunscreen, bathing suit, bathing cap (for the indoor pool, in inclement weather) and a hat. Swim camp participants should bring a water bottle, competitive swimsuit, two towels, flip-flops, goggles, bathing cap, comfortable workout clothes, and sneakers each day. You will receive more information two weeks before your child attends camp, including details of what to bring.
What is the expected level of swimming proficiency?
All campers swim every day at the outdoor pool, weather permitting, and swim in the indoor pool if there is inclement weather. Swimming lessons are offered at all levels.
For swim camps, participants should be able to swim at least a 50-yeard front crawl, backstroke, and breaststroke. They are grouped by age and skill level on the first day of camp. Younger groups focus more on technique; more advanced groups work on conditioning as well. Full-day camp consists of 3-4 hours of pool time, dry-land workouts, videos and classroom time; half-day campers spend less (1-2) hours in the pool.
Where are the sports facilities?
Our baseball and soccer fields are located in Nahanton Park, which is on Winchester Street in Newton, approximately a five-minute walk through paths behind the JCC. The basketball courts and indoor swimming pool (for inclement weather) are located at the JCC; the outdoor swimming pool and three hard-surface tennis courts are located on the JCC grounds. Golf camps are held at the Ponkapoag Golf Course in Canton. G.O.A.L.S. travels to locations throughout the region.
Must my child attend camp every day?
We encourage families to send their children every day that camp is in session, so that there is continuity in their skill-building, teamwork, and social experience. No refunds or credits are provided for missed days of camp.
What is the camp refund policy?
For withdrawals prior to May 3, tuition will be refunded less the deposit. No refunds are available after May 3. A $25 transfer fee will be applied to any transfers between camps or weeks.
How are children organized in group activities?
It varies by camp. Usually they are split up by ages.
Can my child and his/her friend be in the same group?
Please email or call us to let us know which children you would like in the same group. In most cases we will be able to accommodate requests, unless there is a big age difference in the children.
Do you provide lunch?
No, children should bring a kosher lunch (vegetarian or dairy) in an insulated (cooler) bag or container or, for an additional fee, Dushez Café will provide lunches for children enrolled in camp at the Leventhal-Sidman JCC. Details are available at the camp office.
Is there a lunch period in the half-day camps?
Yes.
Do you have a CIT program?
No.
