Parents - Start Here

Welcome to the Ohio Dreams Parents Information Site. While the goal of our website is to look exciting and to showcase our sports, we also understand the importance of working with parents so we can offer the best camp experience possible.  

We take pride in offering the most inclusive programming any action sport camp can offer by working directly with parents to meet all staff that will be working with your child at check-in and a special parents night at the end of each week.

Please use the links above to navigate your way through meeting our staff, viewing our facilities, and learning about our policies, programs, and parent interaction at camp.

But first, be sure to read the letter from our camp Mom.

Hello,

My name is Val Ashcraft, I am not only one of the owners of Ohio Dreams but am the official “Camp Mom” as well. I handle camp registrations, manage the office and am the person you see during check in at camp. Sending your child off to camp for the first time can make the toughest mother (and father) a little nervous. Below is a list of our Most Frequently Asked "Mom" questions that I hope will help put your mind at ease.

Who can come to camp?
Any child (boy or girl) between the ages of 7-17 may attend camp.  Experience in your sport of choice isn't mandatory, only interest, as we make beginner groups every week and work on the basics of each sport that builds the foundation for success.

What is the level of supervision at Ohio Dreams
I would have to say, this would be the number one question we are asked by prospective parents. Our main concern at Ohio Dreams is your camper’s safety. We have set rules and procedures and follow a schedule. We offer a level of supervision that allows your child to be able to experience summer camp under the watchful eye of staff, camper to staff ration is 5:1. Campers will be accompanied by staff at all times during meals, instruction, and free time and in our dorms. We attend meals family style and all campers and staff head to the dorms nightly at the same time for showers and lights out. We do not allow outside visitors on camp property and we are an alcohol and tobacco free campus. All staff go through a application process, background screening, trainings, and staff development meetings prior to and throughout the summer. We have over 30 trained staff members, including a camp nurse on site at all times.

Why are campers not allowed to bring cell phones to camp? How will I be able to stay in touch?
At Ohio Dreams we want to give all campers the opportunity to “unplug” for the week, and have the “summer camp experience” ie: gain independence, navigate new friendships, and learn how to problem solve, enjoy the outdoors and participate in activities. We want your child to feel engaged and interact with the world around them. We have an office phone for emergencies. We will call you if we need you! We do not encourage or discourage campers to call home as we find sometimes this can create unnecessary homesickness that may interfere with the rest of their experience at camp. You may call the camp office between the hours of 9am and 9pm to speak with our office manager Miss Taylor, or myself Val Ashcraft regarding your camper.

What about photos?
We post pictures daily of camp activities on our website and facebook page. Why these photos may not be your individual camper, they will give you a great view of camp life and what your camper is doing that day. Campers are allowed to bring GoPro's, disposable, digital, and video cameras. These will need to be checked in and out of the office for use. You will be allowed to take photos on Friday during Parents Night Activities and Camp Awards. We apologize but as per our policy, they may not use their cell phones to “just take pictures or videos”. We are not responsible for lost, broken, or stolen items.

Can I send a care package?
Care packages are allowed, please no food or drinks. Sending a letter to your camper is highly recommended as is sending your child to camp with some stationary and postage.

This is my campers first time away from home, how do I prepare them?
You as the parent create the mold for your camper’s experience! Be positive! Talk with your child before camp about what to expect, and how great the experience is going to be meeting new friends and learning new skills. Camp is a place for your child to learn independence and confidence! Prepare them for this.

What will my camper need to bring to camp?
You will receive a packing list when you register for camp. But here’s a few tips:

Please remember this is summer camp, older clothes that can get dirty are best! Lots of items get left behind at camp! 

Labeling your campers items can be quite helpful for them and helpful if things can get confused with another campers.

Laundry baskets for your camper to place under their bed for dirty laundry is very helpful so they do not mix dirty and clean clothes (and easier for you to tackle their laundry when they arrive home)  If you camper is flying in to camp, a laundry bag would be great to keep items separate while at camp.