Camp Quality believes camp is one of the rare opportunities to fully unplug, allow for opportunities for connecting with others, focusing on the present moment, and experiencing the joy of being together in nature. This summer, we’re introducing a cellphone policy that reduces distractions during camp activities while still providing families with peace of mind.

A phone-free space is an environment where phones aren’t present and where campers can fully engage with one another. Without digital distractions, campers are better able to explore, use their imagination, build friendships, and enjoy meaningful social connections.

You can learn more about Yondr and their work with camps and youth programs here.(https://www.overyondr.com/camps-youth-programs) You can also watch a short video explaining how the pouch works here.(https://vimeo.com/1106260603)

Families can connect with their child through their regional Camp Director or Family Coordinator. Their direct phone numbers will be shared with families prior to camp, and they are always available to support with communication when needed. Families can access regular photos of their camper and send them camper mail through the Bunk1 service. Learn more about how Camp Quality uses Bunk1 here.(https://drive.google.com/file/d/1yAmYfPxDiROioatVh52IX8wxBITbW8oJ/view?usp=sharing)

Our goal with the use of Yondr pouches is to empower youth to develop healthy boundaries with their technology. We understand that phones are part of everyday life, but we also know from experience that campers thrive when they have space to unplug, play and build real-life connections. This approach allows us to maintain open conversations about phone use while acknowledging both the benefits and the challenges that come with it.

If a phone is found outside of a pouch, it will be placed in one, and the camper will be expected to follow the same phone-use expectations as all other campers.

Yondr pouches are rented by Camp Quality. Any intentional damage made to the Yondr Pouch will result in a charge of $50 CAD, replacing the broken pouch with a new one to contain your child’s phone.

We recognize that every family’s needs and comfort levels are different. Allowing phones provides flexibility for families while we all navigate how technology is an ever-present part of our lives. For many campers, leaving their phone at home remains the simplest and best option.

Phone access times will vary by camp and communicated prior to arrival onsite. Examples of designated times may include; “toes-up” time or a set period after meals.

Camp Quality is committed to creating inclusive and accessible environments for all campers. If a camper relies on their phone for accessibility or medical reasons, our camp medical team will work directly with the camper and their family to ensure appropriate access to their device while still supporting the intent of phone-free spaces whenever possible.

In order to ensure accurate information is shared timely in the event of an emergency, families will be contacted directly by a member of the Camp Quality leadership team. If there are concerns about weather or transport emergencies, please don’t hesitate to reach out to your regional Camp Director.

Camp Quality staff and volunteers are expected to model phone-free spaces alongside campers. All staff and volunteers receive training on the importance of these environments and on how to support and facilitate phone-free spaces in a positive, consistent, and respectful way.