Summer Camps

What is your cancellation policy?

If a family needs to move their registration to a different camp session in the same summer, a transfer of both the deposit and camp fees will be allowed on a space available basis. Any cost difference will be reimbursed or charged at the time of the transfer.

Families may cancel their registration before April 1 and receive a full refund of camp fees. The registration fee is non-refundable. After April 1, no refunds will be issued except in cases of illness. If a camper cannot attend camp due to illness, the camp fees (excluding the registration fee) will be refunded upon submission of documentation from a healthcare provider.

What ages of children can come to camp?

Our camps are for ages 2 to 14 years old, with Summer Term courses being up until 18 years of age. 

What are the hours of GDS Summer Camps?

We have care available between 7:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. for families who need it. 

• Before Care: 7:30 a.m.–9 a.m.
• Morning Camps: 9 a.m.—2 p.m.
• Bengal Cub Club (After Camp Care): 2–5 p.m.
• Extended Day Care: 5–6 p.m.

Does my child have to be a student at GDS?

We are happy to welcome non-GDS students to attend our summer camps! 

We do offer several summer camps that are exclusive to GDS students, including the Jumpstart camps and a select few Summer Term courses, which are designed to prepare GDS students for their upcoming school year.

Does my child need to be potty trained?

We ask that students who are three years old and above are fully potty trained. 

What about accessibility and inclusion?

GDS Summer Programs aims to provide a friendly, accessible environment for all campers by providing the widest possible access to our building, exhibitions, events, and programs. While we hope to offer our camps to as many children as possible, we are not able to provide one-on-one care. 

If your child can benefit from any modification and/or support in order to fully enjoy their time at camp, please contact summerprograms@greensboroday.org.

What should my child bring?

• Snack: Morning and afternoon camps have a snack break. Please send a snack that will provide your child with energy for fun activities!
• Lunch: Please provide a non-refrigerated lunch for your child. Make sure your child’s lunch container is labeled with their name.
• A labeled, reusable water bottle.
• Closed-toe shoes: Sturdy, closed-toe footwear, such as sneakers, is extremely important for our campers’ comfort and safety. Shoes with wheels, such as Heelys, are not permitted in camp.
• Optional: Nap items (for children four years old and below), sunscreen, bug spray 
• Don’t Bring: Cell phones, money, and gaming systems.

Why was I waitlisted?

Once a camp is full, families may add themselves to a waitlist. This allows us to ensure we stay within safe staff/child ratios. If a space becomes available, the camp office will contact you. If you are contacted regarding an opening, you will have 24 hours to confirm and complete payment.

Can students bring cell phones?

If a child must bring a cell phone to camp, it is to remain in a book bag out of sight for the duration of camp and lunch. If a camper has the phone out during camp time, they will be reminded to put it away. Excessive reminders will result in the phone being removed until pickup.

What are the staff/camper ratios?

Our ratios for Summer Programs are the same as what we offer during the school year. 

• 2:12 for two-year-olds
• 2:16 for three-year-olds
• 2:18 for four- and five-year-olds
• 2:20 for all other grades

Who are your teachers?

Our camps are led by experienced, passionate educators who love working with children. Specialty Camp instructors hold an associate’s or bachelor’s degree or bring three or more years of hands-on experience in summer camps or after-school programs. Many are GDS teachers or coaches, eager to share their expertise and enthusiasm with campers during the summer months. Additional programs are staffed by our Bengal Cub Club team—our trusted after-school care professionals—who are skilled, nurturing, and deeply experienced in working with children. All staff members complete a background check to ensure a safe and supportive environment for every camper.