First time at CBS Summer Camp? Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs: Everything you need to know about CBS Summer Camp
What is the best age to go to a summer camp for the first time?
As a general rule, it is recommended: the earlier the better, as this will help them develop their abilities, autonomy and social skills. For residential camps, such as CBS Summer Camp, the most popular and recommended ages are 8 to 14 years old. For children who are particularly attached to their parents, we suggest that they attend their first camp with a friend or relative (sibling, cousin, etc.). This helps the child feel more secure and reduces the likelihood of homesickness.
What if they don’t feel confident enough to go to camp yet?
Some children find it difficult to take the plunge due to insecurity or fear; the idea of sleeping away from home without their parents can be daunting. In these cases, it is best to encourage them and explain that, although it might be tough at first, they will soon feel at ease, settle in, and enjoy the experience. It is important that, as parents, you do not force them to go, but rather motivate them to do so. Sometimes you have to give a little push and help to take the first step, but never impose it.
Will they have a good time? Will they fit in?
Children at CBS Summer Camp take part in a wide range of activities, excursions and group sports that are often not easily available at home. They are active all day long, engaging in fun activities—there’s simply no time to be bored! Usually, children at summer camps make friends very quickly and rarely have integration problems. Keep in mind that just as your child might go to camp alone or with only one or two friends, most children attend under the same circumstances, so they bond very quickly. CBS Summer Camp organises guided tours of the facilities so you can see them firsthand and meet the management team, who will explain everything we do and how much the children enjoy themselves.
Is it better to go alone or with friends? Can they stay together?
Normally, this isn’t a major factor. It is true that for the first time, it is advisable to go with a friend to have that familiar point of reference. When children come with friends or a group, CBS Summer Camp always organises the groups so that they stay together, provided they are of a similar age. Furthermore, we always recommend that siblings attend the same camp, as they can support and reinforce each other. However, it should be clear that each child will interact independently within their own group. It is not uncommon for an older sibling to take on a “carer” role or for the younger one to follow the older one around; we manage this to ensure both have their own experience.
Will they miss us?
Of course. Although it is true that, in our experience at CBS Summer Camp, it is often the parents who miss their children the most and find it harder! Children are so busy with programmed activities all day that they don’t have much time to feel homesick. While they may have occasional “down times,” our team is fully prepared to help them feel at home and part of the family. Additionally, the CBS Summer Camp management team is also here to help parents cope with being away from their children.
Will they be scared at night?
At first, they might find it a little difficult to fall asleep; occasionally, “mysterious” tummy aches appear due to first-time nerves. This usually disappears quickly, as the physical tiredness from a full day of activities means their bodies naturally crave sleep. Furthermore, at CBS Summer Camp, campers always sleep with a counselor in their rooms—female counselors with the girls and male counselors with the boys.
Can parents visit during the camp?
At CBS Summer Camp, we do not permit parental visits during the camp, as we believe this can have a negative impact on the campers’ settling-in process. However, communication between parents and the camp is available 24 hours a day via a digital platform. We post daily photos and send regular updates via the app’s chat regarding our activities and excursions. In addition, the management team is available around the clock to answer any questions or address any concerns. Before the camp begins, we organise individual or group tours of the facilities so families can meet us and understand how everything works. On the first day, when campers arrive, we invite parents to come in with their children to meet the staff and management, and help their children choose their bed, make it, and settle their belongings.
What happens if they fall ill?
If a camper falls ill, our first step is to take them to a doctor for a professional diagnosis. For minor issues like a sore throat or headache, we will obtain the necessary prescription. At CBS Summer Camp, we do not administer any medication unless it is prescribed by a doctor or the student provides a formal medical report. This is a vital point to ensure the safety of our children. For more serious matters, we would call an ambulance if necessary or transfer the child to the local medical centre or the San Juan de Dios Hospital in the neighbouring town of Bormujos. Parents would be informed immediately and everything is done with their permission.
Are the activities safe?
All activities at CBS Summer Camp are supervised and monitored by our team of specialist instructors to guarantee the safety of our campers. However, we must keep in mind that they are children and adolescents; accidents like a fall during football or other activities can happen. In such cases, as explained above, the camper would be immediately taken to a medical centre or hospital if necessary.
Catering or an on-site chef?
At CBS Summer Camp, we have our own on-site kitchen with a team of professionals specialising in child nutrition. All our meals are cooked on the premises by our team, and our menus are specifically tailored for children.
What about food allergies?
When registering for CBS Summer Camp, one of the main questions on the form is whether the camper has any food allergies, illnesses, or requires a special diet. This is a crucial aspect that we must know in advance. Our kitchen team adapts all menus to accommodate food allergies and special dietary requirements.
What if they need medication or wear nappies?
Upon arrival at CBS Summer Camp, there is a designated area where parents can meet the person in charge of medication. You can leave any necessary medicine there, and a document signed by the guardians must be filled out explaining the dosage and schedule. A medical report must also be submitted. Campers are not allowed to keep any medication in their rooms. Everything must be left with the staff member in charge, who will remind them when it is time to take it and ensure it is taken correctly. In the case that a camper uses nappies, please inform the management team or your child’s monitor. We will handle this discreetly, reminding them each night in a way that ensures no other child is aware.
Can I speak to my child during the camp?
We share a designated “calling schedule” with parents at the start of the camp. Campers can call home during these times. Those with their own mobile phones can use them, and those without can use the camp’s landline.
Can they keep their mobile phones with them?
Campers are not allowed to have mobiles on them during the camp. Phones must be handed in upon arrival on the first day. They will be returned only during the designated calling times. The CBS Summer Camp contact numbers (954 788 44 / 693 601 083) are available at all times for communication between parents and the camp.
What should I do if my child cries on the phone?
It is quite normal for campers to feel a bit emotional when they hear their parents’ voices—this is often when they miss home the most. As parents, try not to worry; it is very common and can even increase slightly as the days go by and they get more tired. Usually, as soon as they hang up, they run off to play with their friends, leaving their parents feeling worried! Our advice is to speak with them every 2 or 3 days, especially if the child is feeling nostalgic. Talking every day is often counterproductive, as it makes the child focus more on the call than on socialising with their peers. Try to stay calm and avoid getting distressed yourself. It’s all part of the experience.
What if they can’t swim?
When registering, there is a section to specify whether the camper can swim. This allows our team and the pool lifeguard to take the necessary precautions and measures.
What do they need to bring?
CBS Summer Camp provides a recommended packing list: [Packing List Link]. We recommend that each child brings their own personal items, even if they are attending with siblings or friends, to avoid things getting lost. This also helps children learn to organise and manage their own belongings, fostering independence and responsibility. Please ensure everything is clearly labelled with the child’s name and group (e.g., Pepe Pérez London 2) and that they bring comfortable, sporty clothing. It is best to pack summer clothes as well as something warmer in case the weather changes. It is very helpful to involve your child in the process. Packing their bag or suitcase together ensures they know what they have, how much, and where everything is located. It’s a great way for them to take responsibility for their own things.
