Sending your child to summer camp is a big milestone—and we know that the first day can bring just as much excitement as it does questions. To help you (and your camper!) feel prepared and confident, we’ve pulled together 10 key things every parent should know before the first day of camp!
Whether it’s what to pack, how check-out works, or what happens if it rains, consider this your go-to guide.
1. Pack Smart: Here’s What to Bring (and What Not To)
There’s no need to lug around sports equipment, art supplies, laptops, or robotics kits—BAM! provides all necessary gear for camp activities.
What your child does need:
- A full water bottle
- Lunch and two snacks (morning + afternoon)
- Sunscreen (apply before camp and send extra for reapplication)
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Comfortable athletic clothing and closed-toe shoes
(Note: Crocs, sandals, and open-toe footwear aren’t allowed for safety reasons.)
2. Know the Age Ranges and Group Sizes
BAM! camps are open to kids ages 4–14, with activities designed by grade and age level. Each group is capped at 12 campers or fewer to keep things safe and personal. Every site has a dedicated Camp Director, along with trained and background-checked instructors.
3. There Are No Daily Drop-Ins
All BAM! summer camps are weeklong programs. At this time, daily registrations or drop-ins are not accepted, so plan accordingly when enrolling.
4. Weather Worries? We’ve Got You Covered
If it rains or there's another emergency, camps will relocate to indoor areas within the school. In very rare cases of full-day cancellation, BAM! will give at least 24 hours’ notice (when possible) and offer make-up sessions, with a maximum of two per program.
5. Check-Out Is Secure and Organized
At pick-up time, instructors check campers out one by one, triggering an automated email to parents/guardians confirming release. Campers are only released to adults listed on file.
Need someone else to pick up your child? Just email contact@brains-and-motion.com ahead of time with written notice.
6. Late for Pick-Up? Don’t Panic (But Note That There’s a Fee)
If you’re running late, rest easy: our instructors will never leave a child alone. However, a $5-per-minute late fee kicks in after the first 5 minutes beyond camp end time.
7. Want to Group Friends Together? Just Ask!
If your child wants to be in the same group as a friend, you can make that request prior to the start of camp. Once camp begins, groups can’t be rearranged.
8. Refunds and Changes Are Possible
Plans change—we get it! Here’s the breakdown:
- 100% refund for cancellations 30+ days before camp starts
- 50% refund for cancellations 14–29 days before camp
- No refunds within 14 days of camp start
Instead, you can opt to change your camp date or location anytime (pending availability) without a fee. Just email contact@brains-and-motion.com.
9. Health & Safety Are Always Top Priority
During registration, you’ll enter your child’s health and medical info. While BAM! instructors are not medical professionals, they are trained to respond quickly and escalate any situation to the school office, parents, or 911 when needed.
If your child—or anyone in their household—has had COVID-19 symptoms, they must:
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Be symptom-free for at least 72 hours
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Wait at least 14 days since symptoms first appeared before returning to camp.
10. Yes, There’s Still Room (But Not For Long!)
Enrollment is open until 18 hours before the start of camp, as long as there’s space left. Camps fill up quickly, so don’t wait to register—especially if you're hoping to snag a spot with our current Buy 3 Weeks, Get 1 Free offer!
Final Checklist Before Day One:
✅ Register your camper
✅ Pack lunch, snacks, water, and sunscreen
✅ Confirm authorized pick-up contacts
✅ Complete health & waiver forms
✅ Check your inbox for complete camp details
Got more questions? No worries—we’re just an email away at contact@brains-and-motion.com, or give us a call at (888) 409-6226. Here's to a summer full of movement, creativity, and fun at BAM!
