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Frequently Asked Questions

Where are your camps?

We offer day camps in three convenient locations:

  • JCC Henry Kaufmann Family Park, Monroeville (transportation included)
  • JCC Squirrel Hill – 5738 Darlington Road
  • JCC South Hills – 345 Kane Boulevard, off Bower Hill Road, Scott Township

What makes JCC Day Camps different?

JCC Day Camps combine the magic and community of a traditional summer camp with the convenience families need. Lunch, snacks, daily swimming and swim instruction, field trips and activities are included in the camp fee. Campers enjoy an incredible variety of experiences while growing into new opportunities as they get older.

What will my child do at camp?

A little bit of everything! Campers enjoy swimming, sports, outdoor adventure, arts & crafts, drama, music, cooking, gardening, and more. As campers get older, they gain more choice and access to new experiences including hobby periods, late stays overnights, and trips.

Does my child swim every day?

Yes! Campers swim every day, with approximately half of their swim period devoted to instruction and half to free swim. Campers are assessed and placed at an appropriate skill level, making our program great for everyone from hesitant beginners to confident swimmers. 

Is camp screen-free?

Yes. JCC Day Camps are screen-free, giving campers the opportunity to unplug, be present and fully engage in friendships, activities and the outdoors.

What does Jewish life look like at JCC Day Camps?

Jewish values, traditional and culture are woven naturally throughout the camp experience. Campers celebrate Shabbat each Friday, connect with Israeli staff, participate in special programs like Israel Day and Camp Kindness Day, and explore values like kindness, community and repairing the world. Families of all backgrounds are welcome at JCC Day Camps.

What is included in the camp fee?

Our fee includes lunch and snacks, daily swim instruction, camp activities, field trips, late stays, overnights and a camp t-shirt. No surprise activity or trip fees.

Is lunch provided?

Yes! Campers receive a kosher-style lunch, snacks, and a daily popsicle. Our facility is nut free, and we can accommodate a variety of dietary needs, allergies and restructions.

Is extended care available?

Yes. Aftercare is available for an additional fee and includes activities, a snack and additional programming.

How does JCC Day Camps support campers with different needs?

We want every camper to feel successful and included at JCC Day Camps. Inclusion professionals are onsite throughout the summer to support campers and staff, develop individualized strategies when needed and partner with families to create a positive camp experience. Our approach is grounded in universal design and is practiced through positive behavior support strategies.

Who takes care of my child at camp?

JCC Day Camp staff complete a comprehensive hiring and screening process and participate in intensive pre-camp training covering child development, program planning, Positive Behavior Support, First Aid/CPR, safety and emergency preparedness.

What happens if my child gets sick or injured?

Our health office is staffed throughout the camp day by a nursing professional. Families are contacted when a child is ill or when additional care is needed.

Can my child attend with a friend?

Yes. Campers can request to be grouped with friends, and we do our best to accommodate requests.

How flexible is registration?

JCC Day Camps offer flexible, one-week sessions, making it easy to build a camp summer that works for your family. Flexible payment plans, along with refund and credit options through the spring, give families more time to plan without the financial risk.

My child has never been to camp before. How will you help them adjust?

We know that starting camp for the first time is a big step for both campers and families, and at JCC Day Camps, we want every new camper to feel welcomed and excited before their first day! Our efforts to welcome new families begin well before summer, with introductory phone calls to get to know your camper, answer questions, and learn how we can best support their transition to camp. First-year campers also receive a special welcome gift to help build excitement for their first summer at JCC Day Camps!

Once camp begins, our counselors focus on building connections, helping campers develop friendships, and making sure every child feels included and supported. We recognize that every camper adjusts differently, and our leadership team works closely with families to provide individualized support when needed. Our goal is for every camper to feel a sense of belonging, build confidence, and leave their first summer already looking forward to the next!

How do you help campers make friends?

We group children according to school grade and take the greatest care to place your child with children of similar interests and abilities. Every Monday, staff lead icebreakers and team-building activities to help new and returning campers connect, build friendships and feel part of their group from the start. These opportunities continue throughout the week to strengthen relationships and create a sense of belonging.

What happens on really hot, rainy, or poor-air-quality days?

JCC Day Camps has decades of experience navigating extreme weather and unexpected circumstances, from severe heat and poor air quality to the challenges of the pandemic. With indoor and covered facilities and experiences leadership, we are prepared to adapt quickly while prioritizing camper safety.

We know families rely on camp for childcare, so whenever it is safe to do so, we will make every effort to operate during normal camp hours. This may mean modifying schedules moving activities indoors or adjusting programming based on conditions.

Any changes will be communicated as easy as possible so families have the information they need to make the best decision for their child.

How do I know if JCC Day Camps is the right camp for my child?

JCC Day Camps is a great fit for children who enjoy being active, trying new things, spending time outdoors and being part of a community. With a wide variety of activities, experienced staff and intentional opportunities to build friendships, discover what they love, take safe risks and feel a sense of belonging.

We know every child is different. If you’re considering JCC Day Camps for the first time, we encourage your to visit camp, attend an Open House, or talk with our team about your child. We’re happy to help you decide if JCC Day Camps is the right fit.