Museum Camps FAQs
What are the themes and dates for Museum Camps 2025?
Check out our camps webpage below for a full list of 2025 offerings
cincymuseum.org/museum-camps
How do I register my child for Museum Camps?
* Registration will look different this year! There will be two parts; the initial purchase and a separate portion where you will fill out detailed digital waivers. You will receive a link to the detailed waiver in a confirmation email after checkout. Please read below to prepare for registration.
You can register for Museum Camps online at cincymuseum.org/museum-camps. Members’ registration opens on 1/29/25 at 8:30 a.m., and general registration opens on 2/5/25 at 8:30 a.m. You will need your campers' primary contact information (this is typically the purchaser, and who we will send all further camp information to, the person who is able to complete the camp waivers) and payment information at the time of registration.
Members, please log in before you register to receive your member discount and to be able to register your camper early.
After logging in you will choose camps based on grade level. Click the grade your camper will be in and then choose the weeks of camps you wish to purchase and add to cart. If you wish to purchase camps for multiple campers in different grades, simply back out and choose a new grade! Your cart will be saved between screens. Once you have chosen your camps (make sure you are logged in, Members!), you will be prompted to answer your campers’ name, primary contact and payment information.
Once you register, you will receive a confirmation email with a link to your campers’ digital waivers. Waivers must be completed through this link, in one session. Digital waivers include important information such as emergency contacts, friend requests, medical information and accommodation forms. Please fill out a new waiver for each camper attending (either follow the prompt after completing the first waiver or use the original link in the email).
You will only need to fill out waivers one time for the 2025 summer per camper. If you need to edit any information on the waivers, please reach out to the camps manager, camps@cincymuseum.org.
Need help registering online?
For the smoothest registration, please register online. If you need assistance with your account or online registration, please call (513) 287-7001. Our phones are open seven days a week, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and staff will be happy to assist you in registering for camp.
If you need assistance logging into your Membership, please follow this link to learn how to reset passwords or log in for the first time: cincymuseum.org/member-access-instructions.
What are the hours of Museum Camp?
Museum Camps run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Check-in: 8:45 to 9:15 a.m.
Check-out: 3:45 to 4:15 p.m.
Do you have before and after care available?
Unfortunately, we will not be offering before or after care at this time.
How many campers will be in a group?
Group sizes are below.
- Grades K: up to 14 campers per classroom
- Grades 1st-2nd: up to 20 campers per classroom
- Grades 3rd-4th: up to 20 campers per classroom
- Grades 5th-6th: up to 24 campers per classroom
Is there a discount for Cincinnati Museum Center Members?
Yes! CMC Members receive $25 off Museum Camps. Be sure to sign in to your account before registering to activate the discount.
To ensure the smoothest registration, please make sure that your Membership is active, and your login information is accurate before camps go on sale on January 29th.
If you need assistance logging into your Membership, please follow this link to learn how to reset passwords or log in for the first time: cincymuseum.org/member-access-instructions.
What is the cancellation policy?
There is a $50 processing fee for cancelling before May 1, 2025.
There will be a $100 fee if you cancel on or after May 2, 2025, up until the Friday before your camp.
No refund given for cancelations after that point.
To cancel, please call (513) 287-7001. A refund will be issued to the same credit card used to register for camp. Please have the card in hand when calling to cancel.
Does my camper need paperwork to participate in Museum Camps?
Yes!
Once you register, you will receive a confirmation email with a link to your campers’ digital waivers. Waivers must be completed through this link, in one session. Waivers include important information such as emergency contacts, friend requests, medical information and accommodation forms. Please fill out a new waiver for each camper attending (either follow the prompt after completing the first waiver or use the original link in the email).
You will only need to fill out waivers one time for the 2025 summer per camper. If you need to edit any information on the waivers, please reach out to the camps manager, camps@cincymuseum.org.
Waivers must be completed to participate in camp. Please complete the waiver fully in one session to avoid unwanted duplications.
Campers who need to carry an Epi-Pen must complete the Camper Accommodation Request Form as part of the digital camp waiver, via the link in your confirmation email. Once the Accommodation form has been completed, Camp Leadership team will reach out to the primary contact with an Epi-Pen Release form. Epi-Pen form, along with digital waivers, must be completed for campers to participate in camps. If your camper has any other medical accommodation requests, please fill out the medical accommodation form in the digital waiver.
If your camper will need to take medication during the camp day, please make sure to fill out the Camper Accommodation Request form when filling out the digital waiver for your camper.
After submitting Accommodation Request form, that includes details around your camper’s medication needs, Camp Leadership team will reach out to the primary contact with an Additional Medication Authorization form.
Campers who need to bring asthma medication (inhaler, nebulizer etc.) to camp, must compete the Camper Accommodation Request form when filling out the digital waiver for your camper, via the link in your confirmation email. After submitting Accommodation Request form, that includes details around your camper’s Asthma needs, Camp Leadership team will reach out to the primary contact with an Asthma Action Plan form. Asthma Action Plan form, along with digital waivers, must be completed for campers to participate in camps. If your camper has any other medical accommodation requests, please fill out the medical accommodation form in the digital waiver.
Campers who need to bring seizure medication to camp, must compete the Camper Accommodation Request form when filling out the digital waiver for your camper, via the link in your confirmation email. After submitting Accommodation Request form, that includes details around your camper’s seizure needs, Camp Leadership team will reach out to the primary contact with an Seizure Action Plan form. Seizure Action Plan form, along with digital waivers, must be completed for campers to participate in camps. If your camper has any other medical accommodation requests, please fill out the medical accommodation form in the digital waiver.
Campers with diabetes, must compete the Camper Accommodation Request form when filling out the digital waiver for your camper, via the link in your confirmation email. After submitting Accommodation Request form, that includes details around your camper’s diabetes needs, Camp Leadership team will reach out to the primary contact with a Diabetes Management form. Diabetes Management form, along with digital waivers, must be completed for campers to participate in camps. If your camper has any other medical accommodation requests, please fill out the medical accommodation form in the digital waiver.
(For more information about medication, please see the below question: My Camper must take medication while at camp)
My camper has an allergy and will need to bring an Epi-Pen. What is the procedure for Epi-Pens?
Campers who need to carry an Epi-Pen must complete the Camper Accommodation Request Form as part of the digital camp waiver, via the link in your confirmation email. Once the Accommodation form has been completed, Camp Leadership team will reach out to the primary contact with an Epi-Pen Release form. Epi-Pen form, along with digital waivers, must be completed for campers to participate in camps.
Please indicate if the camper is not able to carry their own Epi-Pen on their own. Staff will make sure that the Epi-Pen is with the camper at all times during the day. Epi-Pens must be brought on the first day and will be returned at the end of the week. Epi-Pens will be stored in a safe location overnight throughout the week (unless requested otherwise) and cannot be kept at camp over the weekend.
My child needs to bring asthma medication (inhaler, nebulizer etc.) to camp. What is the process for asthma medication?
Campers who need to bring asthma medication (inhaler, nebulizer etc.) to camp, must compete the Camper Accommodation Request form when filling out the digital waiver for your camper, via the link in your confirmation email. After submitting Accommodation Request form, that includes details around your camper’s Asthma needs, Camp Leadership team will reach out to the primary contact with an Asthma Action Plan form. Asthma Action Plan form, along with digital waivers, must be completed for campers to participate in camps. If your camper has any other medical accommodation requests, please fill out the medical accommodation form in the digital waiver.
My child needs to bring seizure medication to camp. What is the process for seizure medication?
Campers who need to bring seizure medication to camp, must compete the Camper Accommodation Request form when filling out the digital waiver for your camper, via the link in your confirmation email. After submitting Accommodation Request form, that includes details around your camper’s seizure needs, Camp Leadership team will reach out to the primary contact with an Seizure Action Plan form. Seizure Action Plan form, along with digital waivers, must be completed for campers to participate in camps. If your camper has any other medical accommodation requests, please fill out the medical accommodation form in the digital waiver.
My child has diabetes. What is the process for diabetes management at camps?
Campers with diabetes, must compete the Camper Accommodation Request form when filling out the digital waiver for your camper, via the link in your confirmation email. After submitting Accommodation Request form, that includes details around your camper’s diabetes needs, Camp Leadership team will reach out to the primary contact with a Diabetes Management form. Diabetes Management form, along with digital waivers, must be completed for campers to participate in camps. If your camper has any other medical accommodation requests, please fill out the medical accommodation form in the digital waiver.
What do we need for check-in and check-out?
All individuals, including parents, picking up campers need to be listed on the Museum Camp Authorized Pick up list and show ID every day when picking up campers. Changes to Museum Camp Authorized Pick up list must be made in person with an ID by the primary contact/emergency contacts, or through correspondence with Camps manager through email, camps@cincymuseum.org.
Each day, please follow up with the authorized person who picked up your camper to see if there was any end of day communication shared at check out. End of the day communication may include incident reports. Incident Reports are a form of communication between camp staff and camper parents and caregivers. Incident reports will be shared during check out, and the authorized pick-up person will review and sign it.
For camps at Union Terminal: You will pull up to the front doors of Cincinnati Museum Center and remain in your car. During check in camp staff will greet and check-in campers and walk them inside to their group. During check out, camp staff will great cars in the pickup line. While camp staff is checking the pick-up individuals ID, another staff member will bring your camper out to your car.
For Cincinnati Observatory: Please walk your camper up to the building on the right. Camp staff will check them into their camp and walk them inside to their group. For check-out, campers will either be outside on the grass, or inside the building on the right. A camp coordinator will check be there to check out your camper.
What if my child will need to arrive late or leave early?
If you need to pick your camper up early or drop off late, please contact us at (513) 728-0082 or camps@cincymuseum.org at least 24 hours in advance.
Want to know the best time to pick up your camper so they don’t miss an activity they’ve been looking forward to? Lunch and recess are great times! Campers have lunch and recess each day from 11 a.m. to noon.
What if my child will be absent?
If your child will be absent, please notify the Camp Manager at (513) 728-0082 or camps@cincymuseum.org as soon as possible. Refunds are not given for partially attended/missed camps.
What will my child do at camp?
The activities during camp are based on the different camp themes. Your child will be participating in a variety of hands-on educational activities such as science experiments, arts and crafts, games, animal encounters, interactive presentations, conversations with guest speakers and more! Each activity has educational information built in, so be sure to ask your campers questions about what they learned!
For camps at Union Terminal: Each day campers spend their mornings exploring different exhibits before other guests arrive, giving campers space and room to learn at their own pace. While we may try, campers may not see it all – there are so many things to see; but we will make sure their week is packed with fun filled experiences.
For camps at Cincinnati Observatory: In addition to the activities lead by camp staff, each day, Cincinnati Observatory experts will lead campers in engaging activities or historic tours. Campers can expect to play outside in the beautiful Observatory spaces during lunch, recess and various activities!
For more information about a specific camp theme, please contact the Museum Camps Manager at camps@cincymuseum.org or (513) 728-0082.
Will I be able to receive pictures of my camper while they are at camp?
Sometimes! Campers will only have their picture taken if you say it is ok on the photography waiver (You will receive a link to complete this digital waiver in the confirmation email). Each week, we will take pictures of campers and send them out when possible. We try to get a variety of campers but cannot guarantee that we will get pictures of every camper.
Which grade should I sign my camper up for? Can I sign my camper up for a younger/ older group?
Camper grades are based on the 2025/2026 school year. If your camper is entering 1st grade this fall (2025), they may register for any 1st-2nd grade camps! Camps are designed with child development in mind. To ensure each camper has an engaging experience, campers must be entering the grade they are entering of 2025 and will not be able to register for a younger/older group.
Do Museum Camps serve children with disabilities?
The Cincinnati Museum Center is committed to providing an inclusive and accessible environment for our summer camp participants. We fully comply with all applicable federal, state, or local laws, including the Americans with Disabilities Act, in providing access and reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. Our goal is to meet the individual needs of the child within the structure of our program(s), while maintaining a healthy and safe environment for all children and staff. We will make reasonable accommodations to afford children with disabilities full and equal enjoyment of our programs and services in the most integrated setting appropriate to their needs. We will make no assumptions concerning any individual’s abilities or disabilities and will make an individual assessment to determine if we can meet each child’s need in the specific program setting.
Cincinnati Museum Center’s Camps makes every reasonable effort to accommodate campers of all abilities and needs. If your child benefits from supports, takes medication at camp , has a life-threatening allergy requiring an Epi-Pen, or if you would like to request a medical accommodation, please fill out the Medical Accommodation Request form when filling out your camper’s digital waivers or contact the Camp Manager at (513) 728-0082, camps@cincymuseum.org.
Museum Camps does offer several accessibility amenities, such as fidgets, weighted blankets, and noise cancelling earmuffs, that campers can use during the week. For a full list of CMC’s Accessibility amenities please see our Accessibility webpage (cincymuseum.org/accessibility). As we know personal items may bring extra comfort, campers may bring accessibility items to camp. All items should be discussed in advance of their first day of camp.
Please also let us know of any additional tools or techniques we may use to help your camper have a great time at camp. The more we know about your camper in advance, the better equipped we can be to make your child’s camp experience the best possible!
If you are interested in enrolling a child with disabilities and have further questions, please contact the Camp Manager to set up a meeting to evaluate our program’s suitability for your child.
Museum Camp Manager Contact Information:
Emily Bertolo
(513) 728-0082
camps@cincymuseum.org
Can my child and their friend be in the same group?
Yes! When you register your child, there is a section in their digital waivers (link shared with you via confirmation email) where you can put friend request names, and camp dates. Please make sure to have their friend’s name ready and be sure that their friend has registered for the same camp. Campers must be in the same grade band. If you would like to make a change after submitting waivers, please contact the Camps Manager, camps@cincymuseum.org, no less than a week before the start of camp, to ensure campers will be placed together.
What should my child wear/bring?
Children should wear typical play clothes. Please keep in mind that some days we may have messy activities. Some areas inside can get chilly, so a sweater or jacket is recommended. Since we often have games and physical activities in addition to 30 minutes of recess, please send children in shoes that are appropriate for running and playing. Younger campers will have a 30-min quiet time. Feel free to send books or coloring supplies for your camper to work on individually during this time.
Bathroom accidents can happen; in the case of a bathroom accident, please feel free to include an extra set of clothing for your camper or extra clothes can be provided, and the Camps Manager will notify you.
All electronics, toys and valuable items should be kept at home, with the exception of items used for accessibility purposes. Cincinnati Museum Center is not responsible for any lost, broken or stolen items.
All campers MUST bring a packed lunch and water bottle. An hour break will be taken for lunch and recess each day. Lunches should not contain any items that need to be refrigerated or heated. Campers may NOT purchase food or items from our retail spaces during camp. Campers should NOT be sent to camp with money.
My child must take medication. How can they do this at camp?
If your camper will need to take medication during the camp day, please make sure to fill out the Camper Accommodation Request form when filling out the digital waiver for your camper.
After submitting Accommodation Request form, that includes details around your camper’s medication needs, Camp Leadership team will reach out to the primary contact with an Additional Medication Authorization Form.
This Medication Authorization Form must be completed fully in order for CMC camp medical coordinators and staff Members to administer the required medication (both prescription and non-prescription such as Aspirin, Tylenol, allergy medications) or for the camper to self-administer medication in accordance with the Prescriber’s Authorization. A new Medication Authorization and Release Form must be completed each time the camper registers for a camp, and each time there is a change in medication, including a change in dosage or time of administration.
- Medications must be labeled with the camper’s name, name of medication, the dosage amount, and the time or times to be given and provide the dosing method (pill splitter/crusher, any supplemental dosing methods, etc.) Medications MUST be in the original container/prescription bottle with no more than the dose needed for the day week of camp (if applicable), and with the prescription label or direction label attached. CMC does not hold multiple days or weeks’ worth of medication on site. All medication must be current.
- It is highly encouraged for parents to administer longer term medication before or after the program, if possible, for dosing schedule.
- Emergency medications (inhalers, EpiPen’s, antihistamine’s, insulin, seizure medication, etc.) may require additional information. Additionally, parents/guardians may be requested to review the medication and provide specific training for the staff.
- Diabetes and Seizure Management Care Plans will require additional information, and necessary forms will be provided to the parent/guardian if medication and medical care are requested to be provided at camp.
Cincinnati Museum Center’s Camps makes every reasonable effort to accommodate campers of all abilities and needs. If you would like to request medical accommodation, please fill out the Camper Accommodation Request Form when filling out your campers’ digital waivers or contact the Camp Manager.
How can I get in contact with Museum Camp staff if there is an emergency?
If you need to contact Museum Camps right away, please call the Museum Camps Manager at (513) 728-0082. You may also call our Public Safety office at (513) 287-7048.
What happens if my child becomes ill during camp?
If a camper exhibits signs of illness during the camp day, the Museum Camp Medical Coordinator or the Camps Manager will call the emergency contacts listed on the camper's registration. The camper must be picked up immediately after Museum Camp staff communicates with the camper’s parent or caregiver (45-minute grace period may be granted based on parent/care givers locations). If necessary, our Public Safety officers will assist with injury or illness.
Do you provide snacks?
Yes! We provide an afternoon snack for all Museum Campers. Snacks are simple, peanut-free items such as Nutri-Grain Bars or Goldfish Crackers. If you know your camper is a picky eater or has certain dietary restrictions, please feel free to pack an additional snack with them.
Do you provide lunch?
No. Each child must bring a packed lunch and a water bottle. An hour break will be taken each day for lunch and recess. Lunches must be brought from home and should not contain any items that need to be refrigerated or heated up. Campers may NOT purchase food from the food court or vending machines. Campers should NOT be sent to camp with money, food service locations do not take cash, and campers will not be given time to visit these locations.
Can my child purchase food or items from the food court or gift shop?
No. Campers are not permitted to purchase any items from the food court or any of our gift shops. Please do NOT send money with your camper for any reason. Our food service vendors and gift shops do not take cash, and campers will not be given time to visit.
My child is in Kindergarten/First Grade and needs a rest in the afternoon. Do you provide resting time?
Yes! In addition to lunch and recess, our younger campers (Kindergarten through second grade) will be given 30 – 45 minutes of quiet time in the afternoon. During this time, they may rest while watching an age-appropriate movie, listening to music, or reading a children’s book.
What are the behavior expectations at camp?
At the beginning of camp, campers and instructors work together to set the expectations. Both campers and instructors are always expected to be respectful to each other, their peers and their surroundings. Expectations may include: keeping hands and bodies to self, walking feet, and using kind words.
The more we know about your camper, the better equipped we are to help your child meet behavior expectations and have the best time at camp! Please let us know of any tools or techniques we may use to help your camper have the best camp experience. You may share this with camp staff on the digital waiver, or contact the Museum Camps Manager at (513) 728-0082 or camps@cincymuseum.org
All electronics, toys and valuable items should be kept at home, with the exception of items used for accessibility purposes. Please notify us ahead of time if your camper will be bringing an item for these purposes. If a non-accessibility item brought from home disrupts camp, the item may be held by staff until the end of the day. Cincinnati Museum Center is not responsible for any lost, broken or stolen items.
How does Museum Camp manage behavioral issues?
Our instructors start with positive reinforcement and redirection to help campers with their behavior. In cases where disruptive behavior continues, the following steps are taken:
Reminder of Expectations
- Conversation with instructor
- Calm-down time (sit out from activity)
- Work with coordinator to create a plan to work on behavior
- Call home/conversations with parents or guardians
- Removal from camp
Each day is a new day for campers. We try to work with every camper on a case-by-case basis on how we can help them enjoy camp! However, in cases where Museum Camp staff are concerned that the behavior of a camper is harmful to themselves, others or their surroundings, steps may be bypassed, and this will be communicated with families as needed.
What are the qualifications of your Museum Camp Instructors?
All our instructors are experienced educators and have taught in classrooms, camps, museums, art centers, etc. Museum Camp Instructors must pass a background check, and are required to attend Museum Camp’s extensive training. Please contact our Museum Camps Manager, Emily Bertolo, at (513) 728-0082 or camps@cincymuseum.org for more information.
What are the hours of Museum Camp?
Museum Camps run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Check-in: 8:45 to 9:15 a.m.
Check-out: 3:45 to 4:15 p.m.
Do you have before and after care available?
Unfortunately, we will not be offering before or after care at this time.
How many campers will be in a group?
Group sizes are below.
- Grades K: up to 14 campers per classroom
- Grades 1st-2nd: up to 20 campers per classroom
- Grades 3rd-4th: up to 20 campers per classroom
- Grades 5th-6th: up to 24 campers per classroom
My camper has an allergy and will need to bring an epi-pen. What is the procedure for epi-pens?
Campers who need to carry an epi-pen, must complete our epi-pen authorization form. Campers must complete this epi-pen form to participate in camps.
Please fill out and bring the epi-pen authorization form to their first day of camps or email the camps manager at camps@cincymuseum.org. Please indicate if the camper is not able to carry their own epi-pen around. Staff will make sure that the epi-pen is with the camper at all times during the day.
Is there a discount for Cincinnati Museum Center members?
Yes! CMC Members receive $25 off Museum Camps.
Does my membership need to be active in the summer in order to purchase member-priced camps?
Yes, an active Membership through the dates of camp is required to get the Member discount. Be sure your Membership is active through August and renew the day or week before purchasing camps to make the camps purchasing process even easier!
Members will additionally get a chance to register for camps earlier than the general public!
How do I register my child for Museum Camps?
You can register for Museum Camps online at https://www.cincymuseum.org/museum-camps/. Please have your payment information, membership number (if you are a member) and child’s information ready to make registration quicker and easier.
Registration cannot be completed over the phone. If you need assistance with your account or online registration, please call (513) 287-7001. Our phones are open seven days a week, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Need help registering online? Check out our how-to guide here.
What is the cancellation policy?
There is a $50 processing fee for cancelling 15 or more days in advance of the first day of camp. There will be a $100 fee if you inform us 7 to 14 days before the first day of camp. 25% of your camp registration will be refunded if you inform us fewer than 7 days in advance; No refund is given after the first day of camp.
To cancel, please call (513) 287-7001. A refund will be issued to the same credit card used to register for camp. Please have the card in hand when calling to cancel.
Does my camper need paperwork to participate in Museum Camps?
Yes! Please fill out the Museum Camp Permission Forms when registering for Museum Camps online at https://www.cincymuseum.org/museum-camps/.
If your camper has an epi-pen, please be sure to fill out the epi-pen authorization form and bring to the first day of camp, or email to camps manager at camps@cincymuseum.org. Campers must complete this epi-pen form to participate in camps.
What do we need for check-in and check-out?
For camps at Union Terminal: You will pull up to the front doors of Cincinnati Museum Center and remain in your car. During check in camp staff will greet and check-in campers and walk them inside to their group.
During check out any adult picking up a child is required to show a photo ID as well as be listed on the Museum Camp Permission Form. Parents also need to be listed on the Museum Camp Permission Form and show ID every day when picking up campers. Changes to Museum Camp Permission Form must be made in person with an ID, or through correspondence with Camps manager through email, camps@cincymuseum.org
Incident Reports are a form of communication between camp staff and camper parents and caregivers. Incident reports will be shared during check out, and the authorized pick-up person will review and sign it. Please check in with your authorized pick-up person if your camper has any for the day.
For camps at NKU: Camps will take place in the Health and Innovation center. More details on pick up and drop off instructions will be shared before the start of camps in May.
For Cincinnati Observatory: Please walk your camper up to the building on the right. Camp staff will check them into their camp and walk them inside to their group. For check-out, campers will either be outside on the grass, or inside the building on the right. A camp coordinator will check be there to check out your camper.
What if my child will need to arrive late or leave early?
If you need to pick your camper up early or drop off late, please contact us at (513) 728-0082 or camps@cincymuseum.org at least 24 hours in advance.
What if my child will be absent?
If your child will be absent, please notify the Camp Manager at (513) 728-0082 or camps@cincymuseum.org as soon as possible.
What will my child do at camp?
The activities during camp are based on the different camp themes. Your child will be participating in a variety of activities such as science experiments, arts and crafts, games, animal encounters, interactive presentations, conversations with guest speakers and more! For more information about a specific camp theme, please contact the Museum Camps Manager at camps@cincymuseum.org or (513) 728-0082.
Which grade should I sign my camper up for? Can I sign my camper up for a younger/ older group?
Camper grades are based on the 2024/2025 school year. If your camper is entering 1st grade this fall (2024), they may register for any 1st-2nd grade camps! Camps are designed with child development in mind. To ensure each camper has an engaging experience, campers must be entering the grade they are entering of 2024 and will not be able to register for a younger/older group.
Can I enroll my child in a camp for a younger/older age group?
No. Camps are designed with child development in mind. To ensure each camper has an engaging experience, campers must fall within the camp’s grade band.
Do Museum Camps serve children with disabilities?
Cincinnati Museum Center’s Camps makes every reasonable effort to accommodate campers of all abilities and needs.
Museum Camps does offer several accessibility amenities, such as fidgets, weighted blankets, and noise cancelling earmuffs, that campers can use during the week. For a full list of CMC’s Accessibility amenities please see our Accessibility webpage ( https://www.cincymuseum.org/accessibility/). As we know personal items may bring extra comfort, campers may bring accessibility items to camp. All items should be discussed at check-in when the child arrives.
If your child will require supports or has a life-threatening allergy, please contact the Camp Manager to discuss their needs before the camper’s first day. Please also let us know of any additional tools or techniques we may use to help your camper have a great time at camp. The more we know about your camper in advance, the better equipped we can be to make your child’s camp experience the best possible!
If you are interested in enrolling a child with disabilities and have further questions, please contact the Camp Manager to set up a meeting to evaluate our program’s suitability for your child.
Museum Camp Manager Contact Information:
Emily Bertolo
(513) 728-0082
camps@cincymuseum.org
Can my child and their friend be in the same group?
Yes! When you register your child, there is a section of the online registration where you can put friend request names. Please make sure to have their friend’s name ready and be sure that their friend has registered for the same camp. Campers must be in the same grade band. If you would like to make a change after registering, please contact the Camps Manager, camps@cincymuseum.org, prior to the start of your first day of camp.
What should my child wear/bring?
Children should wear typical play clothes. Please keep in mind that some days we may have messy activities. Some areas inside can get chilly, so a sweater or jacket is recommended. Since we often have games and physical activities in addition to 30 minutes of recess, please send children in shoes that are appropriate for running and playing.
Bathroom accidents can happen; in the case of a bathroom accident, please feel free to include an extra set of clothing for your camper or extra clothes can be provided, and the Camps Manager will call to notify you.
All electronics, toys and valuable items should be kept at home, with the exception of items used for accessibility purposes. Cincinnati Museum Center is not responsible for any lost, broken or stolen items.
All campers MUST bring a packed lunch and water bottle. An hour break will be taken for lunch and recess each day. Lunches should not contain any items that need to be refrigerated or heated. Campers may NOT purchase food or items from our retail spaces during camp. Campers should NOT be sent to camp with money.
My child must take medication. How can they do this at camp?
The Cincinnati Museum Center is not permitted to administer medicine to children with the exception of Epi-pens. It is important that you inform us of any medical conditions or special needs. Please contact the Camp Manager to discuss their needs before the camper’s first day. We do our best to accommodate needs and requests.
If your camper has an epi-pen, please be sure to fill out the epi-pen authorization form and bring to the first day of camp, or email to camps manager at camps@cincymuseum.org. Campers must complete this epi-pen form to participate in camps.
Museum Camp Manager Contact Information:
Emily Bertolo
(513) 728-0082
camps@cincymuseum.org
How can I get in contact with Museum Camp staff if there is an emergency?
If you need to contact Museum Camps right away, please call the Museum Camps Manager at (513) 728-0082. You may also call our Public Safety office at (513) 287-7048.
What happens if my child becomes ill during camp?
If a camper exhibits signs of illness during the camp day, the camps manager will call the emergency contacts listed on the camper's registration. The camper must be picked up immediately (45-minute grace period may be granted based on parent/care givers locations) after Museum Camp staff communicates with the camper’s parent or caregiver. If necessary, our Public Safety officers will assist with injury or illness.
Do you provide snacks?
Yes! We provide an afternoon snack for all Museum Campers. Snacks are simple, peanut-free items such as Nutri-Grain Bars or Goldfish Crackers. If you know your camper is a picky eater or has certain dietary restrictions, please feel free to pack an additional snack with them. Please send a note to camps@cincymuseum.org to update any food allergies on your camper’s online forms before camp starts.
Do you provide lunch?
No. Each child must bring a packed lunch and a water bottle. An hour break will be taken each day for lunch and recess. Lunches must be brought from home and should not contain any items that need to be refrigerated or heated up. Campers may NOT purchase food from the food court or vending machines. Campers should NOT be sent to camp with money, food service locations do not take cash, and campers will not be given time to visit these locations.
Can my child purchase food or items from the food court or gift shop?
No. Campers are not permitted to purchase any items from the food court or any of our gift shops. Please do NOT send money with your camper for any reason. Our food service vendors and gift shops do not take cash, and campers will not be given time to visit.
My child is in Kindergarten/First Grade and needs a rest in the afternoon. Do you provide resting time?
Yes! In addition to lunch and recess, our younger campers (Kindergarten through second grade) will be given 30 – 45 minutes of quiet time in the afternoon. During this time, they may rest while watching an age-appropriate movie or reading a children’s book.
What are the behavior expectations at camp?
At the beginning of camp, campers and instructors work together to set the rules. This time allows for everyone to set expectations and boundaries. Both campers and instructors are always expected to be respectful to each other, their peers and their surroundings.
The more we know about your camper, the better equipped we are to help your child meet behavior expectations and have the best time at camp! Please let us know of any tools or techniques we may use to help your camper have the best camp experience. You may share this with camp staff during drop-off or on the permission form. Please contact the Museum Camps Manager at (513) 728-0082 or camps@cincymuseum.org
All electronics, toys and valuable items should be kept at home, with the exception of items used for accessibility purposes. Please notify us ahead of time if your camper will be bringing an item for these purposes. If a non-accessibility item brought from home disrupts camp, the item may be confiscated until the end of the day. Cincinnati Museum Center is not responsible for any lost, broken or stolen items.
How does Museum Camp manage behavioral issues?
If campers are participating in disruptive behavior, our instructors may first use positive reinforcement and redirection to help them make better choices. In cases where disruptive behavior continues, the following steps are taken:
Reminder of Expectations
- Conversation with instructor
- Calm-down time (sit out from activity)
- Speak with Coordinator or Manager
- Call home/conversations with parents or guardians
- Removal from camp
Campers are given three chances to follow directions after a reminder or conversation with instructor. In cases where Museum Camp staff are concerned that the behavior of a camper is harmful to themselves, others or their surroundings, steps may be bypassed, and this will be communicated with families as needed.
What are the qualifications of your Museum Camp Instructors?
Museum Camp Instructors are Cincinnati Museum Center staff, college graduates and upper-level college students. All of our instructors are experienced educators and have taught in classrooms, camps, museums, art centers, etc. Museum Camp Instructors must pass a background check, and are required to attend Museum Camp training. Please contact our Museum Camps Manager, Emily Bertolo, at (513) 728-0082 or camps@cincymuseum.org for more information.
Questions
If you have questions or would like more information, please call (513) 287-7001 or email camps@cincymuseum.org.
