Parent Resources
We are excited that your child will be attending CIMI! Our goal is to make their trip one that they will remember for the rest of their life!
Individual exploration and discovery are at the heart of CIMI’s educational philosophy. In addition to its academic value, a major benefit of attending CIMI is the ‘camp experience.’ While camp is fun, exciting, and educational, it also teaches children practical life skills. By working in small teams to accomplish goals, they learn to get along with others in a group living situation and forge stronger friendships. The very nature of the experience encourages personal responsibility, initiative, and independence. Camp is an opportunity to develop character as children unplug, leave their comfort zones behind, and connect with the world around them. Learn more about the Impact of Camp.
Listed below are resources to prepare for your child’s trip to CIMI, as well as some Frequently Asked Questions. If you do not find the information that you are looking for, please contact your school’s lead teacher.
FAQs
How long is the ferry ride?
The boat takes approximately 2 hours to arrive on the island. The total travel time can vary with weather conditions, number of passengers, and the ferry’s final destinations.
Am I going to get seasick?
The crossing to the island is typically calm. However, some students do experience seasickness. If you are prone to motion sickness, you may want to have seasickness medication approved on your medical form and bring some along with you. You can help avoid motion sickness by getting out into the fresh air, looking at the horizon, and by drinking ginger ale.
What is the typical island weather like?
Daytime temperatures average 60-70°F and nighttime averages 45-60°F. Our “rainy” season begins in December and runs through March. Our average rainfall is 13 inches.
Do you provide bedding?
No, we do not provide bedding. Students should bring their own sleeping bag and pillow.
Can I send food with my child?
Other than a lunch for arrival day (if needed), we discourage you from sending your child with extra food or snacks. Our kitchen staff will prepare plenty of food to keep students feeling satiated and energized throughout their stay. If you have specific concerns about your child’s dietary needs, please communicate them to your school’s lead teacher.
Do you serve vegetarian alternatives?
We provide a vegetarian option at every meal. We also have a salad bar at both lunch and dinner. Dietary information is gathered upon the students’ arrival so that our kitchen staff can prepare appropriate options at meals.
How do you deal with a severe food allergy?
We deal with food allergies every day. Our kitchen staff have all gone through ServSafe training and take great care to safely accommodate all food allergies. If you have specific concerns, the best course of action is to communicate your school’s lead teacher prior to your trip. The earlier we know about severe food allergies, the better we can serve an individual’s specific needs.
Can I contact my child at camp?
We discourage parents from contacting their children while they’re at camp – being unplugged and away from home is part of the camp experience! Prior to your child’s trip, please talk with your school’s lead teacher to find out what procedure they would like you to follow if you need to contact them in the case of an emergency.
Can parents visit their children?
No. Due to the remote location of our facility, and for the safety of all of our guests, we do not allow parents to visit during camp.
Do you have a summer camp?
Yes! We run Catalina Sea Camp at our Toyon Bay and Fox Landing locations. Our parent company, Guided Discoveries, also runs AstroCamp in Idyllwild, CA.
