Young Judaea
With over 40 years of experience in overnight camping, we know that the decision to send your child to camp is a big one, and it’s completely normal to have questions and concerns. Every child grows and develops at their own pace, and some are ready for overnight camp sooner than others. To help ease the transition, we offer two shorter camp options specifically designed for younger campers to gently acclimate to the camp experience:
- Te’ima (1 Week) – For rising 2nd–3rd graders
- Nitzanim (2 Weeks) – For rising 2nd–3rd graders
Both our Te’ima and Nitzanim programs are designed as their own separate eidah (group), so campers stay in the same bunks and participate in activities together, creating a close-knit, supportive environment. While Te’ima campers can choose to extend their stay from one week to two, we encourage families to plan accordingly, as the option for further extension is not available after two weeks.
*Likewise, Nitzanim campers will enjoy their two-week experience but won’t be able to extend to a full session.
At the end of each program, we host a special closing event where campers can share their experiences, reflect on all they’ve learned, and feel ready for a full session at Sprout Lake the following summer.
For older campers, we also offer our traditional full session experience (3 ½ weeks) for rising 2nd–8th graders, where they can immerse themselves in all that Sprout Lake has to offer.
It Takes a Village, so we have a number of strategies to help you along your way!
Before Camp Starts:
We understand that sending your child to camp for the first time can feel like a big step, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. To help your child feel more comfortable and excited about their upcoming adventure, we offer several ways to connect before camp begins:
- Meetups and Playdates: We can arrange a playdate or a meet-and-greet with another new or returning camper to help your child make a new friend before camp starts.
- Virtual Open House: Parents and campers are invited to join our virtual open house, which takes place every few weeks. It’s a great chance to get to know our staff and learn more about what to expect at camp.
- Camp Tours: We offer tours of the camp on select Sundays throughout the summer and a few times during the year. This is a wonderful opportunity to see our campgrounds firsthand and get a feel for the environment your child will experience.
- Contact Us: Have questions or concerns? Call or email our office anytime. Our friendly staff is happy to help and will answer all your questions.
During Camp:
Once camp is underway, we’re committed to keeping you in the loop and making sure your child’s experience is as positive and enjoyable as possible:
- Camper Care Coordinator: We have a dedicated Camper Care Coordinator available to answer any questions about how your child is adjusting to camp, helping ensure they feel supported and comfortable throughout their stay.
- Photo & Video Updates: We love sharing the camp experience with you! Through your camp account, you’ll have access to photos uploaded frequently, and videos that are shared 2-3 times a week, so you can stay connected to the fun your child is having.
Inclusion at Sprout Lake
At Sprout Lake, we welcome and support all campers, including those who may need extra assistance, in our vibrant, inclusive community. We are committed to understanding each camper’s unique needs and providing opportunities for children to participate, learn, and thrive. Our goal is to ensure that all campers can fully engage in activities, develop strong peer relationships, and feel empowered to participate in a Jewish community that values inclusivity. Guided by the principle of kol yisrael arevim zeh lazeh (all of Israel is responsible for one another), we strive to create a camp environment where every child can succeed. Inclusion benefits everyone—campers with and without challenges, families, staff, and our entire community.