What seasons does the program run?
Fall, Winter, and Spring. You can register for one season or multiple seasons at a time. The full three seasons will run from September to May. For specific dates session dates, please refer to www.campskyline.org/wild-child.
What curriculum will be used?
We are using a variety of resources combined with our knowledge and experience. Campers will learn through experience and exploration of the natural world, as opposed to direct instruction. Here is a list of a few of the resources that we are using:
Does my child need to be potty trained?
Yes.
Are there opportunities for parent involvement?
Outside of program hours, there will be opportunities for parents to volunteer in the camp gardens. During program hours parents and caregivers are welcome to hang out in our dining hall and read a book, work, and enjoy some coffee (provided by Skyline.)
What makes the program different from a preschool program? Will it prepare my camper for kindergarten?
Wild Child is an experiential learning program where the focus is on play, development of social skills, and direct interaction with the natural world. As a program of Skyline, Wild Child is licensed as a children’s camp by the State of Michigan and follows the (stricter) accreditation standards of the American Camp Association. While we will not be seeking to be considered a preschool, we are cognizant of Michigan’s Early Childhood Standards of Quality. Wild Child’s objectives include skill development such as letter and sound recognition (pre-literacy), number values and counting (pre-numeracy), communications skills, listening skills, and problem-solving skills. Our goals are to establish the campers’ connection with the natural world, promote positive self-esteem and relationship building, and develop resilience. We are confident that campers will succeed in the next steps of their journey with the development of these skills.
What will you do in inclement weather?
At camp, we like to say “there is no bad weather, only inappropriate clothing.” Of course, there will be days where no amount of clothing can conquer the weather. For those days we have indoor spaces which we will use. During those days we will keep to a similar schedule and bring nature inside. We aim to get outside each day, even if it’s just a few minutes to get a breath of fresh air.
What is the registration process?
You can register at www.campskyline.org/wild-child. We typically open registration one season at a time. Once registered, Skyline will receive a notification that you have enrolled and Skyline’s Assistant Director, Erin, will reach out to you by phone if there are any questions. We will schedule an in-person meeting if needed, and any further information for families will be distributed. We will have a family night prior to our fall season start which we strongly reccomend all registered families attend.
Is gear provided for campers?
No, please see our list of recommendations for what brands/items to purchase. We have a small collection of used gear if campers forget to bring something for the day.
Can my camper drop in and out for days here and there?
No. Our program is designed to build on community and develop friendships, and to have activities that progress. Of course, appointments and illnesses, etc., can arise, but we do not plan for single-day campers. There are 2 day and 4 day options.
Are there any weeks off?
Wild Child will have a week off between each season as well as breaks for Holidays. Families will be given a schedule once registered. Wild Child will follow the same schedule as Almont Schools for snow/inclement weather days. We will email to notify parents of snow days or other emergency closures.
How much does a day of Wild Child cost?
The cost is $29 a day average. We charge for the full season and all payments must be made before the season end date.
Do you offer financial aid?
We do offer some financial aid. If you would like to apply for financial aid, please contact Erin at 810-798-8240 ext. 102 or erin@campskyline.org.