In just a few weeks, a new summer at Camp J will begin! The Tucson J and Camp J staff are looking forward to welcoming new and returning campers for an enriching summer of wonder, friendship, adventure, and fun. Campers can expect adventures all around the J, from the pool to the art studio, and even some exciting special guests and musical performances throughout the summer.
Camp J While Camp J is busy camp-ifying the J, we encourage families to begin preparing campers so that they can navigate the summer with confidence.
Keep reading to learn more about preparing your camper for the summer!
Finalize your paperwork and submit it on Brightwheel
Our staff uses camper paperwork for understanding allergies, medications, and buddy requests, and it also allows our staff to get to know your camper before camp begins!
Please make sure all of your paperwork is ready to go in Brightwheel as soon as possible and reach out if you have any questions.
Attend New Camper Orientation
On Tuesday, May 19 at 5pm, Camp J welcomes all campers and families to our Meet the Camper Night! Join us in the ballroom at the J to meet staff, campers, and get a sneak peek at the summer ahead.
Both returning and new campers are encouraged to attend, and a new family orientation presentation will begin at 6pm.
Emotional Preparation
Summer camp welcomes a new routine, new faces, and new activities. These new experiences can be overwhelming for some campers, so it’s important to normalize emotions and talk about camp ahead of the first day.
- Talk about what to expect, including new friends, your summer routine, and some of the activities coming up at camp.
- Normalize feeling a little bit nervous. We all get nervous before starting something new!
- Encourage independence and trying new things. Chat about the importance of taking risks, making new friends, and navigating challenges.
Packing for Camp J
You likely have most of the items your camper will need for the summer, but it is important that you LABEL all items with your child’s name — from water bottles to towels. Hundreds of campers will be at the J each day, so it’s important to make sure campers and counselors can keep track of items… before they end up in the lost and found!
What to Pack
- Wear comfortable clothes that can get messy (and if you think a change of clothes is a good idea, go ahead and include it!)
- Closed-toe shoes (sneakers recommended, and crocs must be in sport mode!)
- Hat for sun protection
- Swimsuit and towel
- Reusable water bottle
- Backpack to carry belongings
- Sunscreen (Camp J has sunscreen for reapplying, but all campers should bring their own)
- Lunch and snacks in a labeled lunch bag (all food must follow the J’s kosher policy which is featured in the Family Guide that will be sent to camp families ahead of time)
- Don’t forget — each Wednesday, campers are encouraged to dress up according to our special theme!
- Each Friday, wear your special Camp J t-shirt for some matching fun!
What NOT to pack
- Electronics (phones, tablets, gaming devices)
- Valuables or sentimental items
- Toys from home (unless specifically allowed)
If you or your camper has any questions leading up to camp, please send them to camp@tucsonjcc.org, and we would be happy to respond. Also, check out more Frequently Asked Questions here.
We look forward to an amazing summer! See you soon!