1. When do sign-ups for camp begin?
Summer Camp signups begin on January 9 for members and January 15 for non-members on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information about becoming a member please visit our Strawbery Banke website.
2. What is the best way to register for camp?
The best way to register for camp is to fill out the online registration form. Payment can be made online via the SBM Website during registration. Maritime Camp registration (Anchors Aweigh) must be done through the Gundalow Company website.
3. Is the full payment due when I register?
Yes, full payment is due when you register. If you wish to pay in installments, skip the payment part on the registration form and send an email to bcoppola@sbmuseum.org to let me know. You will receive an invoice via PayPal with an option to pay in smaller increments. Your space in camp will not be secure until at least the $35.00 registration fee is paid.
4. What are your payment options?
Credit card is the preferred method, which you can use when you submit your registration form. If you wish to pay by check, skip the payment on the registration form. Make the check out to Strawbery Banke Museum and mail it to the following address: Strawbery Banke Museum Camps, PO Box 300, Portsmouth, NH 03802.
5. Do you offer before/after care?
Not at this time.
6. Can my child attend a camp if he/she is younger than the age range of a given camp?
Each camp has not only an age range, but a grade level as well (see each camp description for more information) Exceptions are rarely made to this rule, but might be entertained if the camp is not full by May 1.
7. Can my child attend camp if he/she is older than the age range of a given camp?
That choice is always left up to the parent and child. However, it is not recommended. The camps are targeted to the middle age range of each group. Even if a child in the older age range would enjoy the activities, they may feel a little out of place surrounded by younger children.
8. What are the qualifications of camp leaders and the adult/student ratio?
Camp leaders are trusted members of the Strawbery Banke staff and have experience working with children. Camp assistants are either SBM staff or college interns that are training to be teachers or museum educators. Camps have at least a ratio of 1 adult for every 5 students. The only exception may be Jr. Roleplayers for 12-17 year olds. This camp may have a ratio of 1 adult for every 8 students.
9. How many children are in each camp?
Strawbery Banke prides itself on the small group atmosphere that allows more hands-on experience and attention for each camper. Groups usually range in size from 12 – 16 students with an average group size of 14 kids. Some camps may have up to 20 campers, but there is a lot of small group work so everyone gets a lot of time for hands-on and individual attention. Extra staff is added when camp sizes increase.
10. What should my child bring to camp?
Children should wear comfortable clothing that can get dirty. Most of the camps have a craft component so spilled paint or ink is a possibility and most kids like to run around during free time so sturdy comfortable shoes like sneakers are essential. Everyone should bring a water bottle and a snack and lunch. All children should come to camp wearing sunscreen and bug spray. Full-day campers should have a supply to reapply in the middle of the day if needed. Rain gear is recommended depending on the forecast. ANCHORS AWEIGH campers do not need bathing suits or life jackets on Tuesday & Thursday when they are at Strawbery Banke Museum.
11. What is the cancellation policy?
If you cancel your reservation before June 1, you will receive a full refund minus a $35.00 processing fee. If you cancel on or after June 1, you receive a 50% refund. If you cancel less than 4 weeks before the start of camp, no refund will be given though camp credit may be possible in certain circumstances.
If your question has not been answered, please email bcoppola@sbmuseum.org
12. What is the COVID-19 policy for camps?
Policies will be based on the guidelines that Strawbery Banke Museum has in place at the time of camp and are subject to change based on circumstances.
The plan at this time is for camps is to run indoors & outdoors as usual. Masks are optional.
If your question has not been answered, please email bcoppola@sbmuseum.org
13. What is a typical day of camp like?
- 8:45 – 9:00 Arrive at camp
- 9:00 – 9:15 Introduction to the day
- 9:15 – 10:00 Activities
- 10:00 – 10:30 Snack
- 10:30 – 12:00 Activities
- 12:00 – 12:30 Lunch
- 12:30 – 1:30 Activities
- 1:30 – 2:00 Free Time
- 2:00 – 2:45 Activities
- 2:45 – 3:00 Clean up/Dismissal
The number of activities done in a day depends on the age of the children and the topic of the camp. Activities are usually 20 – 30 minutes for 6 – 8 year-olds, 30 – 60 minutes for 9 – 11 year-olds, and 45 – 90 minutes for 12+. Camp activities are designed to strike a balance between movement and rest, structure and choice, fine and gross motor skills, etc. All activities include creativity, imagination and inquiry-based learning.