Introducing Noozhawk’s ParentNooz Camp Guide, your go-to resource for simplifying summer planning for your child! Our goal is to equip parents with the essential information needed to make well-informed decisions about Santa Barbara’s summer camps.
Through in-depth interviews with representatives from a range of local programs, this year’s comprehensive Summer Camp Guide offers valuable insights to aid in your decision-making process.
In this interview Noozhawk spoke with Michelle Cyr, Youth and Family Programs Manager at Santa Barbara Botanic Garden to learn more about their summer programs.
Santa Barbara Botanic Garden
Question: What is the name of your camp or program, and what is its primary focus?
Answer: Santa Barbara Botanic Garden Summer Camp.
Families with campers ages 5 to 10 can choose a variety of camp programs providing their children with a safe and enriching environment to explore the natural world. With themes centered around nature connection, native plant conservation, or outdoor discovery, there’s something for every nature lover!
Q: How long have you been running the program? Do you have any professional accreditations or certifications?
A: The Garden’s current summer camp program started in 2022, but it has a long history of summer programs dating back to the early ’90s. The camp manager has received a Day Camp Director certification through the American Camps Association.
Q: What specific goals or objectives will participants be working towards during their time at the camp?
A: The Garden offers several programs for campers, from outdoor adventure to nature art, to connect youth to nature. Each program includes guided activities to foster children’s understanding and appreciation of California native plants and habitats. We also allow plenty of unstructured free play to encourage kids to explore and experience a sense of freedom in the outdoors.
Q: Can you describe the educational components integrated into your program?
A: Each program has a weekly theme supported by nature crafts, outdoor exploration, games, and activities. The program aims to engage kids’ curiosity, develop their understanding of native habitats, and strengthen their connection to nature.
Q: What is the daily schedule like, including activities, meals, and rest periods?
A: 8:30-9:00 am: Drop off
9:00-10:30 am: Morning activities
10:30-11:15 am: Mid-morning activity
12:00-1:30 pm: Lunch and free play
1:30-3:00 pm: Afternoon activities
3:00 pm: Pick-up
We also offer an extended day option for interested families. Extended day campers close their day at 5 pm.
Q: What is the typical age range of campers who attend your programs?
A: The Garden offers summer camps for children ages 5 to 10.
Q: Do you offer full day and 1/2 day options?
A: We offer full-day options from 9 am to 3 pm and an extended day add-on until 5 pm
Q: What are your policies regarding staff background checks, training, and the child-to-staff ratio? How do you ensure the safety and well-being of campers?
A: The staff-to-child ratio is no more than 1:8. All counselors are certified in First Aid and CPR and are certified Mandated Reporters. Camp staff also undergo training in child development, mediating conflict, Garden safety protocols, and fostering a positive and safe camp environment.
Q: What is the cost of attending your camp, and do you offer any financial assistance or scholarships?
A: $350 for regular day + $100 for extended day add-on
We proudly partner with the Police Activities League (PAL) Campership Alliance program and Santa Barbara Housing Authority to distribute and award camp scholarships. To obtain a scholarship with one of our partners, contact PAL or your SB Housing Authority representatives directly for more information.
Q: Is there anything you would like to share about your program that was not already mentioned above?
A: Located in Mission Canyon, the Garden’s 78-acre property provides ample opportunity to explore, discover, and play. With more than five miles of walking trails, including a children’s garden, the Garden provides a perfect backdrop for a fun Santa Barbara summer camp experience while connecting kids to the power of our amazing native plants and the habitats they support.
Click here to learn more about Santa Barbara Botanic Garden!