Recreational Services

girls playing with water balloons

Kids Camp

We are excited for Kids camp 2024!

Our dedicated Recreational Services Kids Summer Camp staff is working hard to prepare ways to make this summer memorable and engaging! Use the tiles below to learn more information about the upcoming 2024 summer Kids Camp Program.

Save-the-Date:

All parents/ guardians will be required to attend one of the sessions below before your child is permitted to join our camp. Dates for the 2024 summer meet the counselor are as follows: 

    • Friday, May 31, 2024 from 5 - 7 p.m.
    • Sunday, June 2, 2024 from 1 - 3 p.m. OR 4 - 6 p.m.

Jump to:


registration:

Registration opens on Monday, March 4, 2024 at 8 a.m. Click "Registration" button below to enroll.

Registration

If you are registering multiple children, please email kidscamp@utoledo.edu for your multi-child discount code prior to registration.

  • The discount price does not apply to the first child, but each additional child after will receive $15 off.
  • Note: Upon receiving the discount code, Rec Services staff can provide an estimated total.  All final totals are calculated at checkout in the registration portal or in person at the front desk of the Student Recreation Center. 

Summer Camp Schedule 2024:

Session 

Theme 

Theme Description 

Field Trip 

Week 1: June 3 - 7 

Pirates & Mermaids 

Ahoy, Maties!! It’s time to begin sailing the 9-weeks of kid’s summer camp in search of treasure (or… better yet, maybe a pirate themed swashbuckler adventure across Carter Field or practicing out mermaid swim on the slip N’ slide)! The opportunities are endless and we promise that we won’t make you walk the plank as a result! 

No field trip

Special Guests Appearance

Week 2: June 10 - 14

Enchanted Forest

Walk into the woods with us, but beware of fairies, goblins, and other enchanting creatures lurking around! Campers will explore the world of make believe in this “anything goes” enchanted forest. 

Wildwood Metro Park

Week 3: June 17 - 21

 Dino Daze

How’s your roar? Dinosaurs and birds come together for this prehistoric adventure. We’ll learn about giant lizards, feathered friends, and look for fossilized clues to determine which creatures used to inhabit Ohio. 

 Fossil Park

Week 4: June 24 - 28

Witches & Wizards

Fancy a spot of Magic? We know our staff are already bursting at their seams with their very own special brand of sorcery. You're in for a wicked good time as we are casting super-fun spells all week long and writing our own magic potion recipes

Sky Zone 

Week 5: July 1 - 3

Holiday Madness

Why wait until the holidays to celebrate our favorite holidays? Get ready to celebrate a week of Fun Holiday Cheer! Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day while we test our luck hunting for leprechaun gold. Spooky Season is among us as the ghouls and goblins make an appearance early this year! And do you hear that? It’s the sound of the polar express makes its arrival for a Christmas PJ Day!! Lastly, wrap up your week of the fourth with family time and a four-day weekend from camp. 

No field trip

Special Guests Appearance

Week 6: July 8 - 12

Camp Carnival

Come clown around with us at our end of the summer camp carnival! Juggle like a pro, tame lions, or learn to mime. Each day will feel like a funhouse here at the greatest show on earth! 

 Bowling

Week 7: July 15 - 19

Mystery Mayhem

Bright colors, neon colors or even mix matched colors. This week is sure to be colorful and crazy! There are mysteries to be solved and you'll need all your energy! So bring your imagination, that Utoledo Rocket spirit, and get those creative juices flowing as we embark on a week of mystery. 

Imagination Station

Week 8: July 22 - 26

Summer Safari

Calling all explorers! It’s time to grab your binoculars and take a wild ride during this safari season. Campers will take a trip around various habitats to discover all types of animals and insects. 

The Toledo Zoo

Week 9: July 29 - Aug 2

Let the Games Begin!

Ready? Set...Go! Each day campers will use their athletic skills to play, create masterpieces, and participate in a variety of team building exercises, active fun competitions, and games.   

No field trip

Special Guests Appearance

*All field trip locations are subject to change.

Pricing and Payment Schedule:

Session 

Full Payment Due Date 

Late Fee Applied

Payment Amount*

Week 1: June 3 - 7 

May 29, 2024

May 30, 2024

Member/UToledo Affiliate: $150

Non-Member/Non-UToledo Affiliates: $175 

Week 2: June 10 - 14 

June 5, 2024

June 6, 2024

Member/UToledo Affiliate: $150

Non-Member/Non-UToledo Affiliates: $175 

Week 3: June 17 - 21 

June 12, 2024

June 13, 2024

Member/UToledo Affiliate: $150

Non-Member/Non-UToledo Affiliates: $175 

Week 4: June 24 - 28 

June 20, 2024

June 21, 2024

Member/UToledo Affiliate: $150

Non-Member/Non-UToledo Affiliates: $175 

Week 5: July 1 - 3 

June 26, 2024

June 27, 2024

Everyone: $90 

Week 6: July 8 - 12 

July 3, 2024

July 4, 2024

Member/UToledo Affiliate: $150

Non-Member/Non-UToledo Affiliates: $175 

Week 7: July 15 - 19 

July 10, 2024

July 11, 2024

Member/UToledo Affiliate: $150

Non-Member/Non-UToledo Affiliates: $175 

Week 8: July 22 - 26 

July 17, 2024

July 18th, 2024 

Member/UToledo Affiliate: $150

Non-Member/Non-UToledo Affiliates: $175 

Week 9: July 29 - Aug 2 

July 24, 2024

July 25th, 2024 

Member/UToledo Affiliate: $150

Non-Member/Non-UToledo Affiliates: $175 

*Members/UToledo Affiliates are UToledo students, faculty/staff, or UToledo Rec Services Members. Anyone who does not fit into one of these categories is classified as a Non-Member/Non-UToledo Affiliate. 

Beginning March 4, 2024 a $25 deposit is required to reserve your child's spot for a summer camp session(s). There are no refunds for this deposit, special circumstances will be reviewed.

Camp Activities 

Arts and Crafts 
Creative and fine art skills are encouraged through the completion of a variety of simple and long-term projects.

Field Trips/Events 
Activities are planned weekly throughout campus and Toledo. Most trips are within walking distance; transportation is provided when needed. 

Fitness and Wellness  
Fun movement and wellness activities specially tailored to the age and skill level of campers.   

Special Guest/ Speakers  
Fun and exciting guest appearances from Rocky & Rocksy, UToledo Police, Fire Fighters, Ohio H20, and More!  Special Guests are revealed the week before in the parent email and flyers at the check-in/out table. 

Games 
Games and activities appropriate for each age group are facilitated by counselors and are focused on physical skills and friendly competition. 

Sports 
Summer campers learn the basic skills and rules of various games and team sports while playing and having fun. 

Rock Climbing 
Belay-certified instructors support campers through both the physical and psychological challenges of the participating on the climb wall. 

Swimming 
Campers do not swim everyday and swim days/ times are subject to change based on reservations in the pool. Parents are notified at Check-In/Out and via the Week in a Glance email (sent out the week prior).

Team Building 
Group activities are designed to promote and encourage leadership development. 

 Camp Day Schedule

Camp staff work to provide engaging activities all summer long. Downloadable Camp Day Schedule above is an example outline of what campers may experience daily during one week at camp.

Parent Handbook

 Parent Handbook 2024

Kids camp Staff

Gracelyn Jones

Gracelyn Jones, M.S. - Coordinator, Competitive Sports & Youth Camps 

Position: Camp Director

Mission: Kids are such a joy to be around and I always look forward to summer camp. I love impacting them to burst our of their comfort zone and grow into their personalities.

Life Outside of Work:  I enjoy anything DIY/crafty, Halloween, and the Beach! I love spending time with family, friends, and my Siamese Cat Juliet!

Bree Large

Bree Large -  Kid's Camp Student Specialist

Major: Education

Mission: I love working with kids because every day is a chance to inspire and help them grow. It's not just about being a teacher or mentor; I aim to be a source of encouragement, boost their self-esteem, and help them discover their strengths. Every interaction is an opportunity to create positive memories!

Life Outside of Work: Outside of work I am a full-time student teacher! I am currently working to finish my degree here at The University of Toledo and am projected to graduate in May of 2024.

Drew McManus

Drew McManus - Kid's Camp Student Specialist

Major: Criminal Justice

Mission: I love my role within the kid's camp here at the University of Toledo because it allows me to foster an environment that promotes creativity, joy, and contribute to the positive growth of the young individuals that we have the pleasure of overseeing throughout the summer!

Life Outside of Work: I love the warm months of the year here at Toledo! Outside of work, I enjoy following baseball, dedicating time to my fitness and well-being, and learning about the wildlife in America's national parks.

Camp FAQs

What is the contact information for camp?

Student Recreation Center Member Services Desk: 419-530-3700.

Point of Contact: Coordinator, Competitive Sports & Youth Camps, Gracelyn Jones

Email: kidscamp@utoledo.edu

What’s the cost?

The cost of camp is $150 - $175 per week for one camper. 

What are the camp hours?

Camps runs Monday through Friday. Drop off is 8 a.m. - 9 a.m. Camp day with activities start at 9 a.m. and will end at 4 p.m. Camper pick-up is between 4 p.m. - 6 p.m.

Will food be included?

Snacks will be provided by Recreational Services every day. Lunch is not provided and campers are expected to pack a cold lunch. Campers should also bring a reuseable water bottle. Campers will not have access to microwaves. Lunch Boxes or bags should be labeled with the campers full name.

Lunches should NOT include the following food items or be contained in food items brought for lunch due to common allergy concerns:

  • Nuts
  • Cashews
  • Peanuts
  • Almonds
  • Peanut Butter
  • Shellfish

What is the Registration and payment Deadline?

The deadline for registration and payment is the Wednesday prior to the start of each camp week by 8 a.m. See Pricing and Payment Schedule section above with specific dates.

If camp is full, will there be a waiting list?

Yes! There will be a waiting list created. Full payment is due the Wednesday prior to each camp week. Thursday prior to each camp week, we will begin to pull from the waiting list for spots that have not been paid in full.

Are there any fees if I change the week of camp my child is going to attend?

We cannot transfer camp weeks in our system. If you need to change weeks, if appropriate conditions are met, a refund can be provided. It is the parent's/legal guardian's responsibility to register for the desired week. 

Are there any discounts available?

At this time, we only offer discounts for those who have multiple children attending camp. Please reach out to the coordinator of camp by emailing kidscamp@utoledo.edu.

How do you sign-up?

You can sign-up using our online Rec Portal or at the Student Rec Center front desk. If signing up before the active semester, make sure to click the current summer semester to view the sign-up link.

How does parking work on campus?

We partnered with ParkUToledo to offer complimentary parking for camp participants from June 3 through August 2 (excludes weekends and Camp Holidays: June 19, July 4, and July 5). Lot 18 is free during Camper Drop-off from 8 - 9 a.m. and Camper Pick-up from 4 - 6 p.m. This excludes metered parking spots.

Outside of these hours, pay at the metered lot or purchase a daily parking permit via the ParkMobile app.

  • Lot 8 use Zone #9236
  • Lot 9 use Zone #9264
  • Lot 18 use Zone #9239

Or, you can purchase a valid parking permit for the summer for $23.30 at the Student Rec Center front desk. 

Learn more about parking on campus.

What safety protocols will be in place?

Campers will be divided into small groups based on age and ability and will have assigned counselors for the duration of the day.

All Camp Rocket Staff and Recreational services staff receive the following training:

  • American Red Cross Basic Life Support (BLS), Automated External Defibrillator (AED), and First Aid which includes Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) skills
  • Emergency response Action Plans from the University of Toledo
  • Child Abuse and Neglect Training
  • Discrimination in the workplace
  • Title IX: Responsible Mandated Employees
  • Minors on Campus Training

All Camp Rocket Staff go through the following background checks:

  • Ohio Criminal (LUCAS) Check
  • Criminal Check

Campers will never be alone; campers will always be in a group with a counselor and a minimum of two campers. Parents will always have access to the weekly activity schedule to know location of their camper. Schedule is subject is change. 

Camp Rockets will teach and reinforce good hand washing techniques and covering coughs and sneezes.

What if my camper does not want to participate in an activity?

All activities are challenge by choice. This means campers have the right to refuse any activity, or the right to participate in any activity to their comfortability level. Camp Rocket Staff will encourage campers to participate in activities to develop new skills. If a camper chooses not to participate we ask that they are not a distraction for the other campers who are participating in the activity.

May I check in on my camper?

Parent(s)/Guardian(s) may want to call in to check on their camper during the day. While this is allowed, there should be a reasonable expectation that Camp Rocket Staff will not be able to immediately respond to a call. The call will be noted, and then information will be passed to the Camp Director or Kid's Camp Student Specialist who will call back when available.

What ages do you allow?

Camper age eligibility is 5 - 12 years old.

We offer a max of 80 spots a week for those who wish to sign-up for camp. Campers will be broken into three groups by their age. Color groups are broken down by: 

Blue group: 5 - 6 year Olds 

Purple Group: 7 - 8 year Olds 

Orange Group: 9 - 12 year Olds

** Request to switch groups to join friends or family members must be discussed with the Camp Director prior to camp. Accomodations are not guarunteed, but can be arranged by scheduling a meeting with the Camp Director.

Is there any before and after care?

As of Summer 2024 before and after care will no longer be offered. Camper check-in will be begin no earlier than 8 a.m. and camper pick-up will be between the hours of 4 - 6 p.m.

What should my camper bring to camp?

  • Closed-toed shoes
  • Sun Screen
  • Mosquite Spray
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Bathing suit and towel
  • Backpack or Bag
  • Medication (If needed, medication form must be completed at check-in)
  • Hat and Sunglasses
  • Extra Set of Clothing
  • Lunch Bag/Box (Food Items, Drink, Utensils in needed, Etc.)
  • Other snacks to have throughout the day

What not to bring?

  • Jewelry
  • Cell phones/ipods/ other electronic devices
  • Gum
  • Weapons are strictly prohibited
  • Medication without appropriate form completed
  • Personal life jackets (provided by Rec Services)
  • Valuable items that could be lost and stolen
    • If these items are brought to camp, this is an accepted risk. UToledo Rec Services is not responsible for lost or stolen belongings. Campers should not bring valuable items to camp with them, as we do not have a secure location to store those items.

Who are your staff members?

Our staff members are members of the community, often times University of Toledo students who have passion for early childhood development and leadership.

Do you background check your staff?

All Camp Rocket Staff go through the following background checks:

  • Ohio Criminal (LUCAS) Check
  • Criminal Check

What is camper to counselor ratio?

The minimum ratio is 1 counselor to 6 - 7 children.

Will my child be swimming? What safety precautions are followed in the pool?

Yes, there will be swimming activity time during camp. The aquatic center staff are certified American Red Cross Lifegaurds. Swim tests are required for campers who desire to swim without a life jacket. Wearing a Rec Services Life jacket is required for any camper that does not pass the swim test. Rec Services life jackets are checked annually for safety inspection. Personal life jackets are prohibited. 

What are the cleaning Protocols to help prevent the spread of germs?

Recreational Services staff are responsible to keep all facility spaces clean. Camp Rocket Staff are responsible to keep camp facility spaces clean and safe through the utilization of cleaning products and a schedule of cleaning duties. 

Campers are responsible for their personal items and are required to assist in maintaining a clean and safe camp environment.

Handwashing and general cough and sneeze protocols will be reinforced amongst campers and camp staff.

How should my child dress for camp?

Campers are required to always wear closed-toed shoes, unless in the aquatic center/pool or lockers rooms. Toledo weather is generally hot during the summer months. Campers should be wearing appropriate clothing for outdoor weather and are encouraged to bring a light jacket. Please be aware that campers will engage in outdoor and craft activites and campers should dress appropriatey. Protective clothing is provided as needed (i.e. oversized t-shirts for painting, etc.).

Parents will be encouraged to provide an extra set of clothing in case of accidents or messes.

 

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Last Updated: 3/27/24