Wachusett Meadow Nature Day Camp - Mass Audubon · games, sing camp songs and have a lot of fun along the way! Our Camp Staff Camp staff are carefully selected for their enthusiasm,

DISCOVER. EXPLORE. BE OUTSIDE!

SUMMER 2019

Wachusett Meadow Wildlife Sanctuary | Princeton, MA

Wachusett Meadow Nature Day Camp

A Day at Camp 8:00–9:00 am Optional Before-Camp Program

9:00–9:30 am Camper Arrival & Choice Time

9:30 am Opening Circle—campers learn about the day ahead

9:45 am Morning Hike, Snack, Story, & Exploration

12:00 pm Lunch & Free Play

1:00 pm Afternoon Hike, Snack, & Activity

3:15 pm Closing Circle—campers share their adventures

3:30–3:45 pm Camper Pick-up

3:30–5:00 pm Optional After-Camp Program

ABOUT CAMP At Wachusett Meadow Nature Day Camp in Princeton, campers ages 3.5 to 17 make new friends and discover the wonders of the outdoors. Campers hike the trails and learn about the natural history of Massachusetts, play games, sing camp songs and have a lot of fun along the way!

Our Camp Staff Camp staff are carefully selected for their enthusiasm, caring attitude toward children, and ability to interact with youth in an outdoor setting. All undergo

background checks and participate in a pre-camp training that includes first aid and CPR certification. Senior Counselors are college age or older, most studying or specializing in the fields of science or education. Wachusett Meadow Naturalists and specialty instructors bring expertise to specific camps. This specialized team works to create a safe atmosphere for all campers.

Thank you, Mass Audubon and Wachusett Meadow. You hold a special place in my child's heart.

PRESCHOOL NATURALISTS Ages 3.5–5, Entering Pre-K–K $130 members; $195 nonmembers Counselor-to-Camper Ratio: 1 to 5

Week 1: June 18–20 Week 2: June 25–27 Week 4: July 9-11 Week 5: July 16–18 Week 6: July 23–25 Week 7: July 30-Aug 1

Explore Wachusett Meadow’s ponds, fields, and forests. Have fun outdoors as you play games, make crafts, go on hikes, and spot wildlife. Use real scientific tools, like magnifying glasses and ponding equipment to study bugs, worms, and insects up close. Play in our backyard and make new friends!

Half-Day Nature Camp

Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday | 9:00 am–1:00 pm

COUNSELORS-IN-TRAINING Ages 14–17 Training: Saturday, June 15, 1:00–4:00 pm $100 members; $165 nonmembers

Are you interested in working with younger campers? Do you want to gain leadership skills? This program is for you! CITs learn how to plan and present a lesson during each week of camp and lead camper games during lunch recess. Please note: Limited spaces are available. A two-week commitment during the summer is required. Contact the Camp Director to request an application: [email protected] or 978-464-2712.

Full-Day Nature Camp

Monday–Friday | 9:00 am–3:30 pm

Each week has a different theme!

Week 2: June 24–28 Week 3: July 1–5 Week 4: July 8–12 Week 5: July 15–19 Week 6: July 22–26 Week 7: July 29–August 2 Week 8: August 5–9 Week 9: August 12–16

PATHFINDERS Ages 5–6, Grades K–1 $245 members; $310 nonmembers Counselor-to-Camper Ratio: 1 to 5

Discover the animals and plants that call Wachusett Meadow home. Make new friends and explore new places. Find out who lives in our ponds, fields, and forests. Walk along the sanctuary’s trails, make crafts, play nature-themed games, and listen to stories.

EXPLORERS Ages 6–7, Grades 1–2

$245 members; $310 nonmembers Counselor-to-Camper Ratio: 1 to 5

Explore Wachusett Meadow’s many habitats and wildlife as you look under logs, go ponding in the wetlands, build shelters in the woods, and play nature-themed games like Camouflage and Hawk and Mouse. Make new friends, do creative crafts, sing camp songs, and go on picnics

NATURALISTS Ages 8–9,

Grades 3–4 $245 members; $310 nonmembers Counselor-to-Camper Ratio: 1 to 8

Discover new nature facts about the wildlife at Wachusett Meadow and in your back yard. Climb a glacial boulder, meet a 250-year-old tree, and canoe our Wildlife Pond. Learn about the sanctuary’s field, woodland, and wetland habitats and the wildlife that call them home. Hike the Brook Trail and eat lunch by the stream.

“ Family Night Wednesday August 7 6:00-7:30 pm

All Camp Families Welcome! Explore camp with your child. Visit the pond, nature play area, and glacial boulder and enjoy s’mores around the campfire with our camp counselors.

New age group!

DISCOVERERS Ages 9–12,

Grades 4–6 Week 4: July 8–12 $290 members; $355 nonmembers Counselor-to-Camper Ratio: 1 to 8

Make new friends and expand your horizons. Discover the biodiversity at Wachusett Meadow as you learn about citizen science. Hike along the Brook Trail and summit Mount Wachusett. for an amazing view. Enjoy dinner together and camp out at the sanctuary Thursday night, Evening activities may include canoeing at dusk, a night hike, stargazing, or roasting marshmallows around the campfire. Please note: camper pick-up is at 9:00 am on Friday.

ECOLOGISTS Ages 12–17,

Grades K–1 Week 6: July 22–26 $310 members; $375 nonmembers Counselor-to-Camper Ratio: 1 to 8

Learn about the biodiversity of Princeton, and beyond! Explore our trails and canoe on Wildlife Pond. Hike to the summits of Mount Wachusett and Mount Watatic for spectacular views. Travel in a Mass Audubon van to the ocean to get up close with saltwater habitats and marine life, and wrap up the week with an overnight at Wachusett Meadow, where you’ll enjoy dinner with your newfound friends and marshmallows around the campfire. Please note: camper pick-up is at 3:30 pm on Friday.

ADVENTURERS Ages 9–12, Grades 4–6

$245 members; $310 nonmembers Counselor-to-Camper Ratio: 1 to 10 Explore the longest trails and farthest reaches of Wachusett Meadow. Hike the Brook Trail, canoe our Wildlife Pond, and summit Brown Hill for an awesome view. Investigate what’s living in the sanctuary’s fields, forests, ponds, and streams. Learn about the impacts of climate change and actions you can take to make a positive impact on the planet.

Week 2: June 24–28 Week 3: July 1–5 Week 5: July 15–19 Week 6: July 22–26 Week 7: July 29–August 2 Week 8: August 5–9 Week 9: August 12–16

Full-Day Nature Camp with Overnight Option Monday–Friday | 9:00 am–3:30 pm

Full-Day Nature Camp Monday–Friday | 9:00 am–3:30 pm

“

NATURE & ART Ages 7–11 Week 4: July 8–12 Week 7: July 29–August 2 $270 members; $335 nonmembers Counselor-to-Camper Ratio: 1 to 8 Explore nature, create art, and make friends! Hike Wachusett Meadow’s trails to gather inspiration for our many art projects during this fun-filled week. Try printmaking, painting, working with clay, and dabbling in multimedia. No experience necessary; just bring your imagination.

NATURE & WOODWORKING Ages 10-14 Week 5: July 15–19 $270 members; $335 nonmembers Counselor-to-Camper Ratio: 1 to 10 Discover multiple tree species that make up our local forests and how they are best suited for various woodworking projects. Practice woodworking using simple hand tools. You’ll make up to three small- to medium-sized pieces using wood from the forest and from the lumber yard.

CREATIVE PHOTOGRAPHY Ages 9-17 Week 8: August 5-9 Week 9: August 12–16 $270 members; $335 nonmembers Counselor-to-Camper Ratio: 1 to 8

With digital photography, you are limited only by your imagination. Learn

how to go beyond taking pictures to creating artistic images. Hike and explore Wachusett Meadow for inspiration, and create a photo album to take home. Parents are invited to attend a slide show presentation of camper images on the last day of camp. Repeat campers are encouraged to attend to improve their photography skills! Please note: Campers should bring their own digital camera.

Specialty Camps

Monday–Friday | 9:00 am–3:30 pm

BEFORE-CAMP CARE All Ages 8:00–9:00 AM Weeks 2–9: June 24–August 16 $25 members; $35 nonmembers, per week full-day camp $15 members; $20 nonmembers, per week half-day preschool camp $5 members; $8 nonmembers, per day

Campers will spend the morning engaged in quiet games or crafts. Please note: children should arrive having already eaten breakfast.

AFTER-CAMP CARE All Ages 3:30-5:00 PM Weeks 2–9: June 24–August 16 $50 members; $65 nonmembers (Weekly) $12 members; $18 nonmembers (Daily)

Campers go on an extra hike, make a craft, play a game, or spend time reading. Please note: After-Camp Care is available to Full-Day Campers only.

Great opportunity for young kids to learn about the environment.

EXTENDED-DAY OPTIONS

We feel so fortunate to have such a program in our backyard. Exceptional programming and staff!!

To Register for Camp: Visit massaudubon.org/wachusettmeadowcamp Call 978-464-2712 Mail or bring this form (pg 10) and payment to: Wachusett Meadow Nature Day Camp 113 Goodnow Road Princeton, MA 01541

Registration Confirmation A confirmation letter/e-mail containing important documents and information will be sent once your camper’s registration has been processed.

Deposit A nonrefundable deposit of $50/camper/session is required to register for camp. The deposit will be applied to your camp tuition and cannot be transferred to another camper, family or camp location. If registering after May 15, payment in full is required (unless a payment plan has been established with the Camp Director).

Refund Policy A full refund, minus the nonrefundable deposit, is provided to camp families who cancel in writing on or before May 15. After May 15 no refund is available. Deposits are not transferable, and refunds are not given for participant dismissal, failure to attend, absence, or sick days. If we must cancel a session, you will receive a full refund.

Financial Aid Financial assistance is available based on demonstrated economic need and available funds. Please call the Camp Director to request an application or download one at massaudubon.org/campforms.

Membership Discount Mass Audubon members at the Family level or above receive a discounted rate. To qualify, your membership must be current through your camper’s last session, and you must be the parent, grandparent, or legal guardian of the camper being enrolled. Membership can be purchased or renewed at the time of registration.

Early Bird Discount A discount of $10 per camper per session is available if you register by March 15, 2019.

Payment Plans Payment plan options are available. Please contact the Camp Director for more information.

Important Deadlines The balance of your camp tuition is due by May 15. If registering after May 15, payment in full is required. All camp forms and waivers are due two weeks prior to your arrival at camp. A camper cannot attend camp and your camper’s spot is not guaranteed until all forms, waivers, and payments are completed (or a payment plan has been established). A fee of $10 per camper will be charged for incomplete or late forms and waivers.

Buddy Requests One buddy request per camper will be honored when possible. Both campers must be the same age and both must request each other. All buddy requests must be made in writing at least one week prior to the first day of the session.

Camp Registration Information

Camper Requirements Campers are expected to meaningfully participate in age-appropriate activities, including outdoor exploration and nature study. To ensure a successful camp experience, please discuss any pertinent information regarding your child’s special needs with the Camp Director. We can accommodate on a case-by-case basis in order to establish the best strategy for a great summer camp experience. All campers must follow stated behavior expectations and safety rules. The Camp Director reserves the right to dismiss a camper when, in his/her judgment, the camper’s behavior interferes with the rights of others or the smooth functioning of the group or activity, or violates the camp’s behavior policy. In such cases no refunds will be provided. If you have any questions regarding your child’s ability to participate in our camp program, please contact the Camp Director.

Camp License Our camp complies with the regulations of the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (105 CMR 430) and is licensed by the Princeton Board of Health.

ACA Accreditation We are proud to be accredited by the American Camp Association. Developed exclusively for the camp industry, this nationally recognized organization focuses on program quality, health and safety, management, and camp operations.

Camp Policy Requests You may request a copy of our background check, healthcare, discipline, bullying, or grievance policy at any time.

Session Transfers Session transfer requests will be honored if there is space available and if the request is made at least two weeks prior to the session start date, after which time transfers are not permitted.

Carpool Requests If you would like to be added to the carpool list, please contact the Camp Director and your information will be shared with other interested families.

Elizabeth Broughton Camp Director Wachusett Meadow Nature Day Camp 113 Goodnow Road Princeton, MA 01541 978-464-2712 [email protected] massaudubon.org/wachusettmeadowcamp

Camp Contact Info

With more than 125,000 members and supporters, Mass Audubon protects 38,000 acres of land throughout Massachusetts, saving birds and other wildlife, and making nature accessible to all. We welcome you to explore a nearby sanctuary, find inspiration, and get involved. Learn how at massaudubon.org.

WACHUSETT MEADOW WILDLIFE SANCTUARY 113 Goodnow Road | Princeton, MA 01541

978-464-2712 | massaudubon.org/wachusettmeadow

Wachusett Meadow Wildlife Sanctuary is a former farmstead that offers spectacular scenery and supports abundant wildlife on over 1,100 acres of protected land. Historic buildings and barns are in use for educational programming, and resident sheep graze our pastures.

Twelve miles of trails offer options for hiking and feature highlights such as extensive tracts of woodland, wetland, and meadow habitat; glacial boulders; ancient trees; hilltop vistas; a nature play area; and connections to the Mid-State Trail and Wachusett Mountain State Reservation.

Natural history programs are offered year-round for participants of all ages, as well as scout, school, and homeschool programs. Canoe and snowshoe rentals are available

seasonally as are indoor and outdoor facility rentals. The nature center, restrooms, program room, outdoor pavilion and part of our trail system are wheelchair accessible.

There’s more to explore at Wildwood:

Overnight Camp, ages 9–14

Wildwood Warblers, ages 7–8

Teen Adventure Trips, ages 14–17

Leaders–in-Training, grades 10 & 11

Family Camp, all ages!

Visit massaudubon.org/wildwood or call 866-627-2267 to learn more.

THERE'S MORE TO EXPLORE!

Camp Registration Form REGISTER ONE OF THREE WAYS:

Visit massaudubon.org/wachusettmeadowcamp, Call 978-464-2712, or Mail this form and payment to:

Wachusett Meadow Nature Day Camp, 113 Goodnow Road, Princeton, MA 01541 Please complete a separate form for each camper.

Week 1 6/18-20

Week 2 6/24-28

Week 3 7/1-5

Week 4 7/8-12

Week 5 7/15-19

Week 6 7/22-26

Week 7 7/29-8/2

Week 8 8/5-9

Week 9 8/12-16

Pre-K Naturalists Ages 3.5-5 $130m/$195nm Full-Day Nature Camp Ages 5-12 $245m/$310nm

Nature & Art Ages 7-11 $270m/$335nm Nature & Woodworking Ages 10-14 $270m/$335nm Creative Photography Ages 9-17 $270m/$335nm

Discoverers Ages 9-12 $290m/$355nm Ecologists Ages 12-17 $310m/$375nm

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