The Children’s Museum has fun and learning planned throughout the year, even when the kids are out of school! Each camp day has a science theme and is packed with scientific investigation, experiments, crafts, and educational games all in the safe and educational environment of our museum. Of course, there’s plenty of time to explore our hands-on, interactive exhibits, see one of our amazing planetarium shows, and have an up-close encounter with a live animal.
Vacation Science Camp is for children in grades 1–6 (must be at least age 6). *Please Note: An up-to-date health form is REQUIRED for your child to attend camp*
Join us for a fun and interactive experience to remember!
Experienced staff * State licensed * Safe and positive environment
Be sure to check out our frequently asked questions section below before you come to Vacation Science.
Volunteers Wanted
For more information about volunteering at Vacation Science Camp, click here.
Vacation Science FAQs
Is the Children’s Museum a licensed camp?
Our Vacation Science Camp, which includes our Summer Science program, is licensed by the State of Connecticut as a Youth Day Camp.
Who comprises the staff?
All instructors are staff Educators from The New Children’s Museum’s. Camp counselors are either local high school or college students. All of our camp have previous experience either working with children or at our museum and have proper First Aid training.
How are children grouped?
Children are grouped according to grade level. Typically first and second graders make up the younger group; with third graders and up comprising the older group. The number of children signed up for a grade on any particular day dictate grouping. There may be times when it is necessary to deviate from our normal grouping pattern.
Can children be grouped with friends?
Parents must request that their child be grouped with a friend at the time of registration. If registering by mail or fax, please indicate this on the registration form. Activities and groups are carefully planned therefore it is not possible to switch groups the day of the program. Please remember that children are grouped according to grade level. We will do everything to honor your request but please understand that it may be necessary for a child to be placed in a group that is not grade appropriate if they request to be with an older or younger friend.
Who can attend the program?
Vacation Science is for children currently in grades 1–6 (must be at least age 6).
Is there a nurse on duty?
As a licensed day camp, we are not required to have a nurse on duty. A staff member, who has completed the First Aid and CPR courses required by the state, serves as our on-site Health Director. Our Camp Health Directors are also trained in Basic Medication Administration, including Epi-Pens.
Can a child on medication attend the program?
A child on medication may attend our camp. Our Camp Health Directors are trained in Basic Medication Administration, including Epi-Pens.
Parents/guardians requesting medication administration for their child while at camp must provide appropriate written authorization(s). This includes authorization for all topical, oral, and inhalant medication applications. An Authorized Prescriber is required to complete and sign a portion of the Medication Authorization Form for all medications other than a non-prescription topical. This form must be submitted to us one week prior to attending camp. All medication must be in the original container with the Pharmacy name and Prescription Number easily identifiable. The medication should be appropriately labeled and have a current date. Please email us at events@thechildrensmuseumct.org or phone: 860.726.4008 for details.
What is the time for the programs?
Vacation Science runs from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Please pick up promptly at 4pm as the museum closes at this time.
When can we arrive at the museum?
Doors open at 8:45 a.m. Check in at the Museum’s Main Entrance.
What is the cancellation/refund policy?
Program fees are non-refundable and non-transferable. Please call the Children’s Museum if your child will be absent from camp.
Will confirmation letters be sent after registering?
Confirmations are not sent. Assume your child is registered unless you are contacted. Feel free to call at any time to verify your child’s registration.
What should each child bring?
- Simple snack and bagged lunch. Food and drink will be refrigerated. The Department of Public Health now requires that all lunches be stored in a paper bag. Please do not send food in a thermal lunch box or container as those containers, when refrigerated, prohibit the food from reaching the required temperature deemed safe by the Department of Public Health.
- Dress for possible outdoor activities.
- Shopping money for our Gift Store (optional).
