What Does a 'Safe & Supportive' Summer Camp Really Mean?

When parents hear the phrase "safe and supportive camp environment," it can feel like a vague promise. At Laurus, we believe safety is built through concrete systems, trained people, and a culture of care that permeates every aspect of camp life. From our hiring process to our daily routines, every decision is made with child well-being at the center.

All Laurus counselors hold valid first-aid and CPR certifications, and our senior staff complete additional training in crisis management, allergy response, and conflict resolution. We maintain strict staff-to-camper ratios that exceed provincial guidelines — typically one counselor for every six to eight children — so that every camper receives personal attention throughout the day. Background checks are mandatory for every adult on-site, including volunteers and visiting specialists.

Beyond credentials, our safety culture is woven into camp programming. Each morning begins with a wellness check-in where counselors observe how campers are feeling and flag any concerns. Activity zones are inspected daily, sunscreen and hydration breaks are scheduled into every block, and we run regular emergency drills so both staff and campers know exactly what to do. Parents receive real-time updates through our communication app, including photos and activity summaries.

Choosing a summer camp is one of the biggest decisions parents make each year. We encourage families to ask pointed questions: What are your staff ratios? What training do counselors receive? How do you handle medical emergencies and behavioural challenges? A camp that answers these questions transparently is a camp that takes safety seriously — and at Laurus, we are always happy to walk you through every detail.