Zoo Camp FAQ`s - Audubon Nature Institute

Welcome to Zoo Camp!
Table of Contents
Camp Contact
2
entire Zoo Camp Experience.
Information
Camp Themes and
Registration Information
Frequently Asked
Questions/ What to Bring
Important Info
A-Z
Drop–off &Pick-Up
Information
This manual is full of information
that will guide you through the
3-5
Please read all materials carefully.
If you have any questions that are
6-7
not answered in these pages, refer
to the camp contact information to
8-13
be connected with the person who
can best assist you with additional
14-15
information.
We can’t wait to share our camp
with you!
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CAMP CONTACT INFORMATION
Charlotte Page
Zoo Camp Director
Desk: 504-212-5357
Camp Cell Phone: 504-239-4571
Please note: (weekend calls will not be received until 7:00 am on Mondays)
[email protected] or [email protected]
Brenda Walkenhorst
Director of Education Projects
504-212-5472
[email protected]
Dominique Tyson
Program Registrar– all registration, payment and Before and After Care questions
504-212-5380 or 504-861-5103
[email protected]
For Time Sensitive messages and calls please calls during camp hours please call Dominique at
504-212-5380 or 504-861-5103 or Camp Cell Phone at 504-239-4571
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CAMP PROGRAMS
Zoo Camp 4-10 years—entering PrK4-4th grade (camper must be 4 by June 1)
$250 per week for members, $295 per week for members
Perfect for budding scientists, zoologists, explorers, artists, and animal lovers! Days (9am3pm) are filled with crafts, hands on and inquiry driven activities, encounters with animal
ambassadors and guided zoo tours. Each day also includes free play and nature play !
Zoo Explorer Summer Camp (entering 5-7th grade)
$300 week for members , $350 per week for nonmembers
This is the perfect program for our older campers as it has all of the fun of regular zoo camp
with the addition of weekly field trips, teambuilding and other leadership activities. Week 4
and week 8 of Explorer Camp include a campout at the Zoo!
2016 Weekly Themes
Zoo Camp
Explorers
May 31-June 3 *(Tues-Fri.)
Habitat Happenings
Habitat Happenings
June 6-10
Animal Superheroes
Cultural Safari
June 13-17
Wildlife Passport
Animals and Art
June 20-24
Extreme Animals
Wilderness Adventure
June 27-July 1
For Pet’s Sake
Animal Careers
July 11-15
Animal Grossology
Animal Grossology
July 18-22
Wildlife Heroes
Wildlife Heroes
July 25-29
Zoo Keeper Olympics
Wilderness Adventure
No Camp Week of July 4
For detailed descriptions see next page.
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2016 CAMP THEMES
Habitat Happenings: From wetlands to rainforests and everything in between, there are so many different
habitats all over the world. This week will explore different habitats and learn why certain animals thrive in
each.
Animal Superheroes (Zoo Camp Only)- Superheroes get a lot of their powers from animals. Web spinning,
climbing walls like a spider, flying like a bat– you can learn a lot from watching animals. Explore the ways
that animals are like superheroes and superheroes are like animals.
Cultural Safari (Explorers Only)- How do different cultures celebrate animals> We will explore how cultures
from around the world celebrate wild life and wild places.
Wildlife Passport (Zoo Camp Only)- Travel around the world while discovering the incredible animals that
call Audubon Zoo home!
Art and Animals (Explorers Only)- Animals have always been celebrated in different forms of art. From
paintings, to sculpture to photography and music– we will explore all forms of art and make some of our
own.
Extreme Animals– Who is the biggest animal at the zoo? Who is the fastest? The slowest? The longest? The
smallest? Let’s explore the amazing animals at Audubon Zoo-to the extreme!
For Pet’s Sake!- If you have a pet at home, or are hoping to get one, this is the camp you need. We will learn
all about being a responsible pet parent as well as which animals do not make good pets. During the week
you will be able to take home some ideas about enrichment, training, animal careers and treats for your
own pet.
Grossology Week– What’s the scoop about poop? We'll answer this question and answer some of your others about the “grossest” things in the animal kingdom.
Wildlife Heroes– Be a hero for conservation by discovering what Audubon Zoo does to support wildlife and
habitats. Take part in the action by creating your own animal conservation initiatives to do at home and in
your community.
Zoo Keeper Olympics– If you are excited for the Olympics in Rio this summer, we hope you will join us for
our own Olympics here at the Zoo! This exciting week will be filled with animal competitions as well as human ones, and activities to learn more about our athletic zoo keepers here at the Zoo.
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REGISTRATION
Registration for summer begins on March 1 and ends one week prior to the desired week
of camp (or when the session is filled). Holiday Camp registrations begin 1 month prior to
the camp session. Camp applications can be found our website at
www.audubonnatureinstitute.org or by calling 504-861-5103.
To Register
You will need a credit card and an email address to register and make full payment
through our secure server, before receiving
confirmation of registration. Please have all
contact information, your membership number and each camper’s medical information
on hand before you begin registration.
camp. Registration fees (2.00) are nonrefundable. To request a cancellation, send
an email to [email protected],
include the week of camp, name of the child
and name on the credit card.
To prevent misunderstandings or mistakes
ALL cancellations must be in writing.
Discounts
To reschedule another date from your origiMembers receive discounts on all Zoo Camps. nal program, please send an e-mail to bwalkTo receive this discount, a valid membership [email protected] include the week
number must be entered at time of registra- of camp, your name, and the week you want
tion. To become a member visit our website to change to.
or call 504-861-5105 Mon-Friday.
Waiting Lists If a session is full you can still
Cancellations & Refunds
go ahead and register online which will put
If you cancel before May 1, you will receive a you on the wait list without charging you tuition. You will be notified by email when you
90% refund. If you cancel after May 1, but beare moved off the waiting list. If you
fore May 17, you will receive a 50% refund. If
checked before of after care you will be
you cancel after May 17, we are unable to
charged. This will be refunded to you if you
offer you a refund. This policy is in effect for
are not moved off the waiting list.
any and all weeks registered of summer
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COMMON QUESTIONS
Can I register my camper for more than one week?
What does my child do all day?
Yes, campers may register for as many weekly sessions as your schedule allows.
We have a weekly schedule of activities to keep your
child stimulated. Each week offers one behind-thescenes tour, an hour of animal encounter, arts and
May I register other family members and friends?
crafts that are nature and animal related, science disNO. Children must be registered by a parent, legal
covery time, visits through out the zoo that are
guardian or grandparent. Please do not register
theme related, life science games, once a week audifriends, neighbors etc. as this will make you the pritorium movie time that follows the theme. We also
mary emergency contact and responsible for all med- encourage free play in an outdoor environment as
ical and registration information.
part of each day. Please ask your child’s counselor for
the weekly schedule. You can also see daily updates
.Do you offer scholarships?
on our Camp Facebook Page!
Yes, scholarships are offered on an as needed basis
and application can be found online.
What if my child needs special accommodaCan my child and their friend/sibling/relative be in
the same group?
tions?
While we do not have the staff to accommodate
campers with behavioral, emotional, or cognitive imAll Zoo Campers are divided into their camp groups
pairments, or who are extremely medically fragile,
by birthdate only. We cannot accommodate friend
campers with those needs are welcome to attend
and family requests. Summer camp is a unique opportunity for children of all ages to make new friends. when accompanied by their aide, caregiver, or respite
provider. Please conWhat if I want my child to only come for two or
tact the Zoo Camp
three days instead of all five?
Director, Charlotte
If you don’t want your child to attend all five days of
Page (504-212-5357)
a session that is your choice but you will have to pay
to discuss your child’s
the full session fee. We do not prorate or offer daily
needs and ensure
rates.
that Zoo Camp will be
a good match as part
of your child’s summer schedule.
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ZOO CAMP INFO
WHAT TO BRING
What to Bring
BE SURE TO LABEL ALL OF
Each camper should bring a backpack that
contains all of the following items:
YOUR CHILD’S BELONGINGS!

A reusable water bottle
Beating the Heat at Camp
We have many ways of staying cool on
A lunch every day. Lunches will not be rescorching hot days:
frigerated or heated. We suggest that
lunches be packed in reusable containers  Groups rotate through indoor, climate
controlled areas.
to minimize waste.
 Outdoor activities, lunch and snack take
 A complete change of clothing
place in shady areas.
 Rain gear just in case!
 Stops are made at misting areas when out
 Towel and Bathing Suit
in zoo.
 Sunscreen
 Each group takes 2-3 trips to Cool Zoo or
To Leave at Home
Monkey Hill each week where they get to
really cool off!
Books, toys and stuffed animals. We are not

responsible for lost items

Money for food or gifts. Concessions and gift
areas will be off limits during camp.
Games involving water, such as Drip Drip
Drop are often played in afternoon

Camper water bottles are refilled frequently and staying hydrated is encour-
Cell phones, Ipods or other electronics
To Wear
aged.
Zoo Camp t-shirts will be distributed during
open house and during the first day of each
session. These shirts must be worn daily.
Closed toed shoes– NO FLIP FLOPS
Shorts or pants! Campers get dirty!
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IMPORTANT INFORMATION
ZOO CAMP A– Z
Information on all camps is covered in these pages. Please read carefully and
share any necessary information with your camper. We are looking forward to a
great year of Zoo Camp!
Quick Tips for a great camp experience

Clothing should always be appropriate for the weather– all camps spend at least some
time outdoors every day!

Shoes should always be closed-toe and fit well! We do a lot of walking each day of Zoo
Camp! NO FLIP FLOPS, sandals or Crocs please.

Meals– See Snacks and Lunches for details.

Late Arrivals or Early Departures disrupt camp and cause staff to be pulled away from programming. Please make every effort to respect the camp schedule.
Absent Campers
If your child will be absent, please leave a message at 504-861-5103 or email [email protected]. There are no refunds or make up days for days missed.
Arriving Late and Leaving Early
Late arrivals or early departures disrupt camp and cause staff to be pulled away from programming, and result in missed tours, animal encounters, or other activities for your camper.
Please make every effort to respect the camp schedule. If absolutely necessary, late arrivals
or early departures must be arranged in advance.
Animal Contact: Campers in all Zoo Camps will have up-close encounters with education animals. With many, touching is permitted if the situation allows. If at any time a camp counselor feels their group is not following camp expectations, the animal encounter may be ended.
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IMPORTANT INFORMATION A-Z
Each Camper will also have to opportunity to feed the goats and sheep in the Watoto Walk
Exhibit. For the safety of all, direct contact with other exhibit animals is not possible. All animal care is done by professionally trained zoo keepers.
After Care/Before Care
Before and After Care is not an extension of the camp program, but is a supervised playtime
designed for those who need additional time to get to and from work or other commitments.
In all camp seasons, After Care is offered Monday-Friday 3:15-5:30 pm. Campers may be preregistered or register Monday –Friday morning. There is a $10 fee per day and a $1/ per
minute additional fee after 5:30 pm. Before Care is offered from 7:30-9:00 am and is $7 per
day per child. We strongly recommend that your child be preregistered so we have adequate
staffing.
Camper Information & Special Needs
Audubon Nature Institute strives to accommodate all interested children. Please understand
that our camps are very active, with multiple transitions and sensory changes throughout the
day. All campers are expected to follow directions and safety rules. While we are a traditional
camp (not specialized for specific special needs), we welcome all children and do our very
best to accommodate every child .
Please provide us with the tools necessary to give your child the best possible experience at
Zoo Camp by informing us of any and all special considerations prior to your child's first day of
camp. This may include information on allergies, accessibility concerns, behavioral, psychological or emotion conditions or other special needs. Details of any Individualized Education
Plan (IEP) or Behavior Plans used with your child at school can often be helpful.
To best enable our staff to provide your child with a valuable experience, the information you
provide will be shared with Zoo Camp Staff and Volunteers unless you request otherwise. Details will not be shared with other camp participants.
While we make every effort to accommodate all considerations, it is not possible for us to
offer 1:1 attention. If your child requires an aide at school or a PASS worker, he/she may not
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Expectations
Audubon Zoo is committed to ensuring that all children who attend Zoo Camp are provided an
atmosphere where they can learn together free of harassment or intimidation. Fun and safety are only possible when there are behavior guidelines that all campers agree to follow.
All participants are expected to show respect for all animals, teachers, fellow students, themselves, Zoo staff, Zoo guests and Zoo facilities. Disruptive or dangers behaviors and physical
aggression are not acceptable. The following expectations are required of all zoo campers.
Be Safety Conscious
Walk! Don’t Run!
Keep off the top rails of all exhibit areas.
Do not push others.
Keep hands and feet to yourself.
No horse play in the bathrooms.
Keep Animals Healthy
Do not feed Zoo animals because they are on a strict diet
Do not tap on the glass. It disturbs the animals in their homes
Do not throw things into the exhibits. The animals could get hurt.
Put trash where it belongs. Animals could mistake trash for food.
Do not scream or yell at the animals. No one likes to be yelled at and this includes the animals.
Do not chase any free roaming animals including the peacocks and chickens.
Keep Plants Healthy
Use paths and walkways only.
Let everyone enjoy the flowers. Please do not pick them!
Have Fun and Be Kind
Kindness is contagious, so be nice! It’s a simple rule to follow!
Respect of fellow campers, counselors and volunteers.
No swearing or inappropriate language
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Our teachers are professionals and they will use sound, positive management tools within
their classes. If any camper does not respond to these measures, the camper will be taken to
the Zoo Camp Director's office for a reminder of the Zoo Camp expectations. If the problem
behavior persists, we will communicate with the parents or guardians and the participant
may be removed from the program. Extreme infractions may result in immediate dismissal at
the discretion of the Camp Director.
This policy will be reviewed with all campers on their first morning of camp. Please also discuss camp expectations with your camper before that time as your understanding of these
expectations, and your support of them, are integral to your camper’s positive experience.
Grouping
In order to ensure that all campers receive age-appropriate opportunities, campers are
grouped by age. Camper of varied ages will NOT be placed in classes together. There will be
occasions through out the day when siblings and friends from different groups will be participating in activities together.
Illnesses
Audubon Zoo Camp reserves the right to refuse entrance to zoo Camp if a child is exhibiting
symptoms listed below. In the event a camper becomes ill, camp staff will notify the registering parent/guardian, followed by those listed as emergency contacts. For the well being of
your camper and the safety of other campers in our program, if your child shows any of the
following symptoms, you will be asked to pick up your child immediately.
Fever of 100 Degrees or more
Severe/persistent coughing
Pink Eye
Sore Throat
Severe headache
Vomiting
Ringworm
Other contagious illnesses
Lice
A doctors note must be provided before campers with signs of any contagious illness or lice
may return to camp.
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Lost and Found
Items are turned into the Camp lost and found table at the end of each camp week. To check
on lost items after your child’s week at camp please check the lost and found table on Friday
or call us at 504-861-5103.
Lunches and Snacks
The zoo does not provide lunch for campers. Please pack a healthy lunch in eco-friendly packaging. We cannot refrigerate or microwave any food for your child. Your child must bring a water bottle every day. If you do not send a water bottle we will give bottled water to your child
for 1.00 per bottle. It is extremely important for your child to have water all day of camp. We
take breaks every few hours to refill water bottles.
We will provide a morning snack for your camper each day. If your child has allergies or dietary restrictions please send your own snack each day.
Most camps will eat lunch and snack in outdoor areas.
In most instances, Zoo Camp does not place restrictions on the types of food that can be sent
to camp. However, if a high number of participants scheduled to attend a week of camp have
food allergies, parents may be asked in advance to refrain from sending the item in question
for that week. We appreciate your understanding of these requests.
Medications
We do not administer medications of any kind during Zoo Camp. If you have a medical need
please contact the Camp Director to discuss.
Schedule
What does my child do all day? We have a weekly schedule of activities to keep your child
stimulated. Each week offers one behind-the-scenes tour, an hour of animal encounter, arts
and crafts that are nature and animal related, science discovery time, visits through out the
zoo that are theme related, life science games, once a week auditorium movie time that follows the theme. We also encourage free play in an outdoor environment as part of each day.
Please ask your child’s counselor for the weekly schedule.
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Shopping
Campers are not permitted to purchase any items from the zoo concession stands, gift shops,
or restaurants during camp sessions. PLEASE DO NOT send money to camp with your child for
any reason. You may purchase items from concession stands or gift shops after you pick up
your camper.
We do have a small camp store that is open each morning during check in that carries camp
necessities and a few Audubon logo items.
Staff
Staff are screened for excellence in programming for children. Camp staff are required to
have previous experience with children and many staff return year after year. All staff working with children undergo a federal background check and drug test prior to employment. To
ensure high quality supervision, the camper to staff ration is 8:1 or better.
Supervision and Safety
At no time is any child left unsupervised. The Zoo’s First Responder and Security team is on
site from 9-4 each day.
T-shirts
Summer campers are required to wear Zoo Camp t-shirts every day. This is a safety precaution and allows us to recognize campers easily among other visitors. Each child receives on
shirt with each week’s registration and extra shirts are available for purchase. T-shirts will be
distributed the first day of camp or at the camp open house.
Available Sizes: Youth XS, S, M, L, Adult S, M, L, XL
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PICK UP AND DROP OFF
7:30-8:40
Early Care Drop Off -Education Gate (Behind statue of Audubon in front of zoo)
Please walk your child to the gate and buzz security. Tell them you are there for camp
and they will buzz you in. Follow the signs to the early care classroom. Staff will be there to
greet your child and to record his/her attendance. After your child is recorded , you are free
to leave.
Be prepared to confirm your pick up list and sign up for After Care if needed.
For your safety, please do not remain in the Zoo after dropping off your camper. Prior to the
zoo opening, preparations are underway that require the Zoo to be free of Visitors. If you
would like to visit the Zoo, please enter through the main admission gate at 10:00 am.
8:45-9:15
Regular Drop Off
Option 1– Park in front of zoo at curb and walk your camper in. Then follow instruct
ions above to check your camper in.
Option 2– Carpool Drop Off. Pull up to the curb and one of our Zoo Camp staff will
greet you and walk with your camper to their classroom. Please note that on Mondays
of each week there is no carpool and all campers must be walked in and signed in.
3:15-3:45 Pick up at Education Gate
Option 1– Park in front of zoo and come in to check out your camper. Campers will be
in their class areas. Be prepared to show your pick up card and be checked off of an approved list. Please DO NOT take your child without first checking out with camp staff.
Option 2– Carpool Pick Up– pull up to curb and one of our staff will greet you and
check your pick up card and verify it with our approved pick up list. Once approved the staff
member will walk in and get your camper and bring them to your car.
After 3:45
After Care Pick Up– Education Gate
Same as Early Care drop off. Buzz security at the education gate and once buzzed in
proceed to the camp classroom. A staff member will greet you, check your id and then sign
your camper out. Campers must be picked up by 5:30. A $1 per minute fee applies to all pick
ups after 5:30.
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IMPORTANT PICK UP INFORMATION
Campers will not be released to any individual not on the pre-approved pick-up
list created at time of registration, open house or the first day of session. When
providing this list, please ensure ALL pertinent individuals are included, including
yourself, parents, grandparents, etc. For the safety of all campers, NO EXCEPTIONS TO THIS POLICY WILL ME MADE. Individuals may be added to the list by
providing the Zoo Camp Director with a signed note at drop off.
All approved individuals, including parents, must
present a name and Zoo Camp Pick Up Card at
time of pick up. Please have Blue Card ready to
save time. Campers will not be released to anyone
without a Pick Up Card. Thank you for your cooperation– these policies are for the safety of all
campers.
YOU MUST HAVE BLUE PICK UP CARD IN ORDER TO PICK UP YOUR CAMPER!
If someone else is picking up your camper they need to have a pick up card to do
so. We will not release any campers without a pick up card.
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