NORTH YARMOUTH ACADEMY Summer Programs Family Handbook
NYA Summer Programs 2026 Handbook
Message from the Director of Summer Programs
Thank you for joining us this summer at NYA’s Summer Programs! We hope to make this a fun and safe experience for you and your camper for many years to come. This will be my sixth summer at NYA, and I am very excited to share my passion for providing campers with exciting and enriching experiences. I bring with me over 25 years of youth development expertise. I recognize that children learn in a variety of different ways and believe that summer camp is a unique and special place to explore ideas, environments, and relationships in a positive camper-focused setting I look forward to seeing your camper discover the magic of camp, enjoy fun activities, and make memories that will last a lifetime!
Please take some time to review the information in this handbook. It is important and will ensure that you and your camper are well prepared for camp. I hope you and your camper are excited about summer camp and the fun involved The NYA family is looking forward to welcoming you into our summer community!
Mary Goodrich Director of Summer Programs mgoodrich@nya.org
207.847.5432
Please contact me
with questions or
concerns, I’m happy to help!
Camp Registration
Registration
Summer Program registrations are accepted online at nya.org/summer via the ACTIVE registration platform. There is a $50 non-refundable deposit per camper, per session required at time of registration. Registrations are not considered complete until full payment and required forms are received. Final balances and forms are due by June 6, 2026 (unless you register after that date or are transferred from the waitlist). Registration must be complete before a camper can participate in a program.
Registration closes the Wednesday before each session starts, if spots are still available. Full payment and forms are due at time of registration in this instance. Registrations after the Wednesday before the start date are considered late, and you will need to contact the Director of Summer Programs to request to register This also applies to those wishing to switch sessions.
Every camper gets a FREE t-shirt with first registration!
Waitlist
NYA Summer Programs 2026 Handbook
All Summer Programs are subject to maximum enrollment. When a program is full, a family can join the waitlist at no charge. If/when a spot becomes available, families will be notified and moved from the waitlist onto the attendance list.
Discounts
There is an early bird discount of $25 for registrations received by April 15, 2026 Please note there are a few camps that do not honor the early bird discount.
Cancellation & Refund Policy
All NYA Summer Programs are subject to minimum and maximum enrollment. If for any reason a program is canceled, parents will be notified in advance and given the option of a full refund or switching to another session All requests for withdrawal must be in writing and received on or before the dates referenced below to receive a refund. The $50 deposit per camp session is non-refundable and is strictly enforced. A full refund (minus non-refundable deposit) is given for cancellations received 21 days prior to the program start date. A partial (50%) refund, less the non-refundable deposit, is given for cancellations received less than 21 days prior to the program start date. No refund is given for cancellations received less than 7 days prior to start date. No cancellations or transfers will be refunded after June 1 for partner camps.
NYA cannot refund after the start of a session for absences due to minor illness/injury, family schedule changes, forgotten registrations, behavioral concerns, camper refusal to participate appropriately, etc. In cases of serious illness/injury or family emergencies, NYA will evaluate on a case-by-case basis and may issue a prorated or full refund, less the deposit. A doctor’s note may be required to receive any refund.
***NEW*** Session Transfer Policy
Requests to transfer from one camp session into another must be made at least two weeks prior to the start of the session. Transfer requests are not guaranteed. Transferring sessions less than two weeks before the start of a session will incur a $10 fee per transfer. There are no transfers between partner camps after June1.
Withdrawal notices and transfer requests may be sent by e-mail to the Director of Summer Programs (summer@nya.org) or mailed to: NYA Summer Programs, 148 Main Street, Yarmouth, Maine 04096.
Camper Abilities
We welcome campers of varying abilities and strive to accommodate special needs whenever possible. However, our typical staff ratios do not allow for constant one-on-one support. Campers who have difficulty with transitions, behavior regulation, following directions, participating in group activities, or who require a behavioral or one-on-one assistant at school may find certain NYA Summer Programs challenging. Some sessions also have specific physical or mental requirements for campers to participate successfully. Please note that no refunds are issued if a camper is asked to leave due to behavior.
If you have questions about how your camper’s abilities may affect their camp experience, please contact the Director of Summer Programs to discuss strategies and create a plan that works for everyone.
Panther Cub Tots (ages 2–3) do not need to be potty trained. Please refer to the What to Bring list at the end of this handbook to ensure your camper has everything needed to stay clean, comfortable, and engaged in camp activities.
Providing the Best Possible Camp Experience
Some parents hesitate to provide personal information about their child’s health, behavior, or past experiences out of concern that it may be misused or that their child could be labeled or singled out. We understand and respect these concerns. Every parent wants their child to begin camp with a fresh, positive start.
NYA Summer Programs 2026 Handbook
At the same time, we know how valuable this information can be in helping your child transition smoothly to camp. When we are aware of learning difficulty, mental health needs, medical conditions, a recent loss, or a significant change in a child’s life, we are better prepared to help your child be successful at camp. For these reasons, we kindly ask that all camp forms be completed as thoroughly as possible and returned before your child’s session begins. Your partnership helps us create the best possible experience for every camper. Please don’t hesitate to reach out at any time if something changes in your child’s life or if there’s anything you’d like to discuss ahead of camp. We’re here to help make your child’s summer both wonderful and safe!
Required Forms
All forms are available in your ACTIVE account once you’ve registered for sessions. We REQUIRE parents/guardians to complete the following forms before a camper is allowed to attend camp:
• Health Information/Authorization for Care
• Release of Liability & Consent
• Pick Up Authorization
As Needed Forms
If your camper requires that prescription medication be administered while they are at camp, you must complete:
• Authorization for Administration of Medication by Camp Personnel
If your camper needs to carry AND self-administer an emergency prescription medication (asthma inhaler, epipen, etc.) on him/her/themself while at camp, you must complete:
• Authorization to Self-Administer Emergency Medication**
**Please be aware that this form MUST be signed by a physician.**
Maine state law requires the following if campers are to carry and self-administer their own emergency medication:
A. A camper who needs to carry and self-administer emergency medication must have the prior written approval of camper’s primary healthcare provider and the camper’s parent/guardian.
B. The camper’s parent/guardian must submit written verification to the camp from the camper’s primary healthcare provider confirming that the camper has the knowledge and the skills to safely selfadminister the emergency medication in camp.
C. The camp health staff must evaluate the camper’s technique when they arrive at camp to ensure proper and effective use of the emergency medication in camp.
If your camper needs to have emergency prescription medication at camp but cannot carry and self-administer or we do not receive the healthcare provider’s permission for them to do so, the medication will be kept by camp staff for use if needed.
Please note that we do not administer medications of any kind (except emergency) to any children in the Panther Cub or Panther Cub Tots program.
NYA Summer Programs 2026 Handbook
Health & Wellness
The below camp policies/procedures pertaining to health/wellness are in place to keep ALL campers safe and healthy. Please respect and adhere to them.
When We Contact Parents
Many of the camp staff are trained in basic First Aid/CPR/AED, and a Registered Nurse is on call to assist with any camper health concerns. Rest assured that if something out of the ordinary is happening with your child that can’t wait until the end of the day, we will contact you. We contact parents/guardians if a camper:
• Needs to be taken to urgent care or the emergency room
• Receives a significant injury
• Has an acute, sudden illness
• Has a temperature of 100° or higher and or symptoms of COVID-19
• Has an active case of head lice or nits
• Experiences atypical homesickness/separation anxiety (needing constant attention, clinging to adults, disrupting camp activities, or constant crying).
• Experiences behavior challenges
Parents/guardians are always welcome to contact the camp office at any time with questions or concerns (207.847.5432, summer@nya.org). We will respond to your calls and emails as quickly as the pace of camp life allows.
Contagious Illness
Please DO NOT send a sick camper to camp! Your camper will not have a good experience and other campers could also become sick. If your camper does not feel well, don’t bring them to camp. Call the Director of Summer Programs and discuss options for attending another a week or bringing your camper the next day, if they are better. If your child becomes ill while at camp, we will isolate them and determine the extent of the illness. You may be asked to pick them up immediately.
Head Lice
Anytime a group of kids gather together, head lice is a possibility. To assist in prevention, please discourage your camper from sharing brushes/combs, headbands, scarves, hats, or any other items that may come in contact with another camper’s head/hair. All action taken to prevent the spread of lice will be done in the greatest of confidentiality to spare discomfort or embarrassment to campers, and parents will be notified accordingly if head lice are discovered.
Homesickness & Separation Anxiety
Missing family while at camp is completely normal even at day camp, and even for older or experienced campers. Preparation for both campers and parents is key to a successful transition. We encourage parents to reassure their campers that they will do great at camp and that you look forward to seeing them at the end of the day. A cheerful, confident goodbye and a speedy exit are usually best for campers, staff, and parents alike.
If a camper is experiencing homesickness or separation anxiety that is significantly affecting their enjoyment of camp, our staff will reach out to parents or guardians to work together on a supportive plan to help the camper feel comfortable and confident.
NYA Summer Programs 2026 Handbook
Our goal is to help every child feel safe, happy, and excited to be at camp!
Food Intolerances/Allergies & Restricted Diets
We do sometimes provide snacks to campers, and some programs may involve campers making food/snacks. Please be sure to note any food intolerances/allergies (gluten-free, lactose intolerant, nuts, etc.) or restricted diets (vegetarian, vegan, no pork, etc.) on the Health Information form so we can be sure to accommodate your camper’s needs
The Lower School building, where the Panther Cub and Panther Cub Tots programs are held, is a completely nut-free zone. This means peanuts and tree nuts of any kind are not allowed. For campers age 6-15, nuts are allowed, but if we are aware of specific nut allergies, we will devise a plan to keep the camper safe.
Hydration
Send your camper with a sturdy, full water bottle EACH day and be sure to put your camper’s name on it. Campers should drink 3-4 bottles of water a day, and staff will consistently encourage hydration.
Sunscreen
We ask that you apply sunscreen before drop-off and send a sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher with your camper. Campers will be reminded to re-apply throughout the day.
Rest
Our goal is to wear your camper out, but plenty of rest at night is an important part of a healthy and fun camp week. Encourage your camper to giggle during the day and dream the night away.
Mean Campers & Bullying
Your camper’s mental and emotional well-being is a top priority for our staff. We encourage campers to speak up right away if another camper is being unkind, teasing, or making them feel excluded. Many campers truly love their activities, counselors, and camp life overall, but may struggle with the behavior of one peer. Sharing concerns early helps us address issues quickly and effectively.
Our counselors are trained to watch for unkind or exclusionary behavior and to intervene immediately. However, some behaviors can happen quietly or out of sight, which is why we rely on campers to tell a trusted counselor if something doesn’t feel right. We do not tolerate mean behavior, and your camper’s voice is an important part of keeping our camp community safe and respectful.
Bullying is defined as unwanted, aggressive behavior among school-aged children that involves a real or perceived power imbalance and is repeated or has the potential to be repeated over time. Both children who are bullied and those who bully others can experience lasting negative effects. We take any concern about bullying very seriously and will work with all parties involved to resolve the situation.
Our goal is for every child to feel safe, included, and happy at camp. Please let us know about any concerns so we can partner with you to ensure your camper has a positive and memorable experience.
Medication
Please DO NOT send your camper with any over-the-counter medications. We have a stock of OTC medications that can be administered to campers, should it be necessary, and if we have parental permission to do so. Campers are NOT allowed to carry medications with them, unless it is an emergency medication and specific requirements have been met. Only camp staff who have been designated and trained are authorized to administer medication of any kind to campers. NYA reserves the right to refuse requests to administer
NYA Summer Programs 2026 Handbook
medications or discontinue administration of a medication to a camper if any of the criteria in this policy is not met.
If your camper needs to take prescription medication while at camp, you must follow these procedures:
• Complete the Authorization for Administration of Medication by Camp Personnel form (available online in your ACTIVE account).
• Provide the medication in its original container (which includes the child’s name, physician’s name, and prescription information) with no more than one week’s supply.
• Deliver the medication to and have a brief discussion with the Director of Summer Programs or designee.
If your camper needs to carry and self-administer an emergency prescription medication (asthma inhaler, epipen, etc.) on him/her/themself, you must follow the below procedures.
• Complete the Authorization to Self-Administer Emergency Medication form (available online in your ACTIVE account). *This form MUST be completed and signed by a physician.*
• Have a brief discussion with the Director of Summer Programs or designee.
Maine state law requires the following if campers are to carry and self-administer their own emergency medication:
A. A camper who needs to carry and self-administer emergency medication must have the prior written approval of camper’s primary healthcare provider and the camper’s parent/guardian.
B. The camper’s parent/guardian must submit written verification to the camp from the camper’s primary healthcare provider confirming that the camper has the knowledge and the skills to safely selfadminister the emergency medication in camp.
C. The camp health staff must evaluate the camper’s technique when they arrive at camp to ensure proper and effective use of the emergency medication in camp.
If your camper is not old enough, does not have the ability or permission to self-administer emergency medication, camp staff can carry the medication for them. In this case, please complete the Authorization for Administration of Medication by Camp Personnel form instead.
Please note that we do not administer medications of any kind (except emergency) to any children in the Panther Cub or Panther Cub Tots program.
Camp Program
Camp Staff
The majority of our camp staff are recruited from the NYA and local community and colleges Many of our lead instructors are trained teachers and all have extensive experience working with youth. Junior Counselors are high school or college students who assist instructors to provide our high-quality program. They all share one thing – a passion to work with children and to make your camper’s experience great!
All staff are required to have a personal interview with the Director of Summer Programs, have references verified, and must pass a criminal background check before they work with campers. All staff and partner organizations participate in a safety orientation before the summer begins.
Our signature NYA-led camps are the Panther Cub and Super Summer Day Camp programs These programs are designed by:
NYA Summer Programs 2026 Handbook
Kassi Tanguay, NYA Lower School faculty member and assistant camp director, coordinates the Panther Cub camps. This is Kassi’s seventh year with Summer Programs. She graduated from Husson University with a degree in Health Science and earned her MBA with a concentration in Health Administration. Lead instructors are often certified teachers or very experienced working with children. Junior counselors complete our Panther Cub team.
Shannon Gallagher, NYA Lower School faculty member and assistant Camp Director, coordinates the Super Summer Day Camp. This is Shannon’s fourth year with NYA Summer Programs. Lead instructors are often certified teachers or very experienced working with children. Junior counselors complete our Super Summer Day Camp team.
Partner Organizations
Several of our camps are run by partner organizations, whom we contract with to bring their particular expertise our program. These organizations provide their own staff and equipment and utilize their own curriculum. They all work closely with the Director of Summer Programs and other summer staff to ensure camper needs are met and parent expectations are fulfilled. Here is more about our partners:
Abracadabra Productions Apex Racket and Fitness
Brick by Brick Maine Brio Dance Studio
Dancing Jaguar Inspirations High Touch High Tech of Maine
Leaping Frog Farm Seacoast United Maine
Program & Schedule
The mission of NYA Summer Programs is to provide children with unique experiences led by caring, knowledgeable staff in a safe and happy atmosphere. We further strive to broaden horizons, teach new skills, and encourage appropriate and friendly interactions among children and adults. We seek to make every program challenging, educational, and fun for all.
Campers will have the opportunity to:
• Participate in programs that develop self-esteem, build skills, are creative, innovative, and memorable
• Have fun!
• Participate in challenging, age-appropriate risk taking
• Experience a wide variety of activities
• Be inspired to achieve their highest potential through interaction with positive adult role models and each other
• Work in small groups and build group unity
• Be a leader and a follower
• Develop connections with adults and peers
• Make appropriate decisions about matters that affect them
• Develop problem-solving skills
• Participate in a group that strives to accept differences and values diversity
Our programs are designed to be fun learning experiences, set in a comfortable and flexible environment. While we do have structure, Summer Programs are not designed to feel like school-year structured programs. Campers will spend plenty of time outside and moving their
NYA Summer Programs 2026 Handbook
bodies. Summer is a great time for experiential learning and that’s just what we offer! We even have plenty of ideas for rainy days that will keep kids active and engaged.
Panther Cub Tots: Summer in Maine is the perfect time for outdoor fun! The Tots session emphasizes active play, movement, and social skill development in a warm, group setting. Campers enjoy plenty of playground time, simple arts and crafts, and a weekly outdoor Water Fun Day. Children do not need to be potty trained to attend.
Please note that this program is not designed as a preschool or Montessori program, and the structure and feel differ from NYA’s school-year programs. Campers may change from week to week, and while we aim for consistent staffing, some staff rotation may occur.
Tots programs are based in NYA’s Lower School building and are led by experienced staff. While each week features a new theme, the daily schedule remains consistent to provide comfort and routine. A sample schedule includes:
Sample Panther Cub Tots Schedule
8:00-8:30 a.m. Arrival & Welcome – free play in Tots classroom
8:30-9:00 a.m. Morning Circle Meeting w/ books & songs
9:00-9:45 a.m. Outside Time
9:45-10:30 a.m. Snack and Free Play
10:30-11:15 a.m. Themed Activity
11:15-11:45 a.m. Lunch in Classroom
11:45 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Camper Pick Up
Panther Cub: Panther Cub campers explore the world through a variety of themed activities each week. They might plant flowers, learn a new game, or let their creativity shine with arts and crafts. Campers enjoy plenty of outdoor and playground time and look forward to a weekly Water Fun Day. Campers must be potty trained to attend this session.
Please note that this program is not designed as a preschool or Montessori program, and the structure and feel differ from NYA’s school-year programs. Campers may change from week to week, and while we aim for consistent staffing, some rotation may occur.
Panther Cub programs are based in NYA’s Lower School building and are led by experienced staff. A onehour rest time is required to maintain our childcare licensure with the Maine Department of Health and Human Services. While each week features a new theme, the daily schedule remains consistent to provide comfort and routine. A sample schedule might look like:
Sample Panther Cub Schedule
8:00-8:30 a.m. Arrival & Welcome – free play in classrooms
8:30-9:00 a.m. Morning Circle Meeting
9:00-10:00 a.m. Themed Activity/Outside Time
10:00-10:30 a.m. Snack & Free Play
10:30-11:00 a.m. Themed Activity
11:00 a.m.-11:30 p.m. Outside Time
11:30-12:00 p.m. Lunch
12:00 p.m. Pick Up for Half Day Campers
12:30-1:00 p.m. Quiet Activities
1:00-2:00 p.m. Rest Time (Required by state law)
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2:00-3:00 p.m. Activity/ Free Play
3:00 p.m. Camper Pick Up
3:00-5:00 p.m. After Care
Super Summer Day Camp: SSDC is based in NYA’s Middle School building, with plenty of time spent outdoors on NYA’s beautiful campus. Campers rotate through classic day camp activities such as sports and games, arts and crafts, water fun with sprinklers, beginning archery, and nature hikes. A weekly special event adds even more excitement.
Most weeks, campers are grouped by age: Junior Panthers (ages 5–7) and Senior Panthers (ages 8–10). These groups come together for large-group games and activities. During weeks with lower enrollment, campers may spend more of the day together as one group. If you have questions or concerns, please contact the Director of Summer Programs. While we cannot guarantee special requests to keep friends together, we will do our best to accommodate when possible. The daily schedule remains consistent from week to week, while specific activities rotate to keep returning campers engaged and excited every day. A sample schedule might look like:
Sample Super Summer Day Camp Schedule
8:00-8:30 a.m. Arrival & Welcome
8:30-9:00 a.m. Morning Meeting
9:00-10:00 a.m. Activity Area 1
10:00-10:15 a.m. Snack
10:15-11:15 a.m. Activity Area 2
11:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Activity Area 3
12:15-1:00 p.m. Lunch
1:00-2:00 p.m. Activity Area 4
2:00-2:45 p.m. Large Group Game/Free Choice Time
2:45-3:00 p.m. Closing Circle
3:00 p.m. Camper Pick Up
3:00-5:00 p.m. After Care
Specialty & Partner-Led Camps: Each camp program is unique and the specific schedule and curriculum will be set by the lead instructors and partners Even if the session takes place primarily indoors, campers will have some time in each session to enjoy being outside. Below is a very general sample schedule to give you an idea of what a day might look like for your camper. If you have questions about specific sessions, please contact the Director of Summer Programs
NYA Summer Programs 2026 Handbook
Sample Specialty/Partner-Led Camp Schedule
8:000-8:30 a.m. Drop off
8:30-10:15 a.m. Activities
10:15-10:30 a.m. Snack
10:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Activities
12:00-12:30 p.m.
Lunch (Half day campers leave)
12:30-3:00 p.m. Activities
3:00 p.m.
Camper Pick Up
3:00-5:00 p.m. After Care
Camper Drop-Off
Camp sessions begin at 8:30 a.m., with drop-off/sign-in from 8:00–8:30 a.m. Please arrive within this window so staff are ready and your camper can enjoy the full day. If your camper will be late or absent, notify us at summer@nya.org or (207) 847-5432
Drop-off locations:
• Panther Cubs: Lower School
• Tots: Toddler House (24 Storer Street, back porch entrance)
• Seacoast Soccer: Lewis Turf Field
• Tennis: Poulin Family Tennis Courts
• Hockey: Travis Roy Ice Arena
• Sailing: Travis Roy Arena
• All other campers: Middle School, 172 Main Street, Yarmouth, ME 04096
Campus maps are at the back of this handbook, and signs will be posted outside.
On the first day of each session, please escort your camper to check in so we can confirm all forms and payments are complete and your camper is ready for a great week!
Camper Pick-Up
Camp ends at 3:00 p.m., and After Care ends at 5:00 p.m. Please pick up your camper within these times so staff can stay on schedule and your camper can enjoy the full day.
If you need early pick-up or will be late, notify us at drop-off or contact summer@nya.org or (207) 847-5432
All campers must be signed out by a parent or guardian. To ensure a smooth process, please complete the PickUp Authorization Form, listing everyone legally authorized to pick up your camper. Photo ID may be required. If someone not on the form arrives, we will contact you for approval. To add someone to the list, send a note or email to summer@nya.org
After Care
This is a well-supervised and loosely structured time outside of the normal camp program time. With a camp session registration, this is offered for an additional charge of $75 per session. After Care runs from 3:00-5:00 p.m.
Panther Cub campers and specialty campers between ages 2-5 will attend After Care in the Lower School. Our Super Summer Day Campers and all other campers ages 6-15 will attend After Care in the Middle School.
Expectations of Campers
NYA Summer Programs 2026 Handbook
North Yarmouth Academy values Respect, Honesty, Perseverance, Compassion, and Responsibility. All campers are expected to behave in a safe, respectful, and responsible manner that reflects these values. This includes treating other campers, staff, volunteers, visitors, and school property with respect. Creating a safe and welcoming camp environment is our top priority.
Behavior that does not meet these expectations will be addressed by staff in an age-appropriate way. Serious or repeated violations may result in a camper being sent home for part of the day or the remainder of the week. Examples of unacceptable behavior include:
• Physical aggression such as hitting, kicking, biting, spitting, or throwing objects
• Use of foul, offensive, or disrespectful language or gestures
• Destruction or misuse of school property
• Excessively disruptive behavior or refusal to follow staff directions
• Possession or use of alcohol or drugs on campus
Staff aim to intervene early, typically with verbal guidance and reminders. Campers may be asked to sit out of activities until they can participate safely. If inappropriate behavior continues, the camper will meet with the Director of Summer Programs and parents/guardians will be contacted. In cases of serious or repeated infractions, a camper may be removed from camp immediately. No refunds will be given if a camper is sent home due to behavioral issues.
Young Panther Cubs or Tots who are new to being separated from caregivers may struggle with adjustment. If a camper cries excessively and refuses to participate, they may not be ready for camp and may be asked not to continue the session. Families are encouraged to contact the Director of Summer Programs in advance to discuss strategies if they anticipate challenges.
Field Trips
Several camps have planned field trips this summer. Participation is not guaranteed for all campers if a camper’s behavior raises safety concerns, we may limit their participation. Parents will be contacted to discuss any concerns before a decision is made
Dog Policy
Dogs are not allowed inside NYA buildings from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. This does not apply to guide or assistance dogs.
Dogs are welcome on campus grounds, but owners must clean up after them and keep them under direct control at all times. Many people are allergic to or afraid of dogs, so please be mindful of their behavior around campers and families.
Please do not bring pets during camper drop-off or pick-up, as this can create safety concerns. Thank you for helping us keep everyone safe and comfortable.
Cellphones, Electronics, Wi-Fi, Toys & Collections
Campers may bring cell phones or other electronics at their own risk, but these items are not part of camp programming and must remain off and stored between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., unless a staff member grants permission to contact home. Campers do not have access to Wi-Fi. To reach your camper, please call the camp office at (207) 847-5432.
Toys, collections, or trading cards are not allowed, as they can be lost or cause conflicts. We strongly encourage leaving all of these items at home to ensure a fun, safe, and stress-free camp experience.
Lost & Found
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Misplaced items will be placed on a table in the Middle School Community Room and in the Lower School foyer. Families are responsible for checking these locations for missing belongings. We strongly encourage labeling all items. Unclaimed items will be donated to an appropriate agency, and unclaimed medication will be destroyed.
Financial Aid
At this time, NYA does not offer financial aid. Be sure to take advantage of our Early Bird discount available until April 15, 2026
Questions
If you have questions or concerns, please contact the Director of Summer Programs before camp begins. Firstday drop-off can be hectic, so reaching out early ensures you and your camper are prepared for a smooth, funfilled start to summer!
Mary Goodrich Director
Summer Programs
What to Bring
Below is a great list of items to be prepared to send with your camper. Several days prior to the start of camp, parents will receive an email with reminders and specific materials or equipment needs (if applicable to their camp). Be sure to label EVERYTHING! It’s easiest to send campers with everything they need in a backpack or day pack
ALL CAMPERS
Lunch
Two snacks
Full water bottle
Sunscreen
Insect repellant
Don’t forget that for ages 2-5, all food must be completely nut-free.
Shoes they can easily move/run in – (Our camps are active, so please send your child in appropriate footwear for this. Flip flops and sandals are usually not a good idea!)
Clothes that can get dirty/messy and are activity appropriate – (We want campers to
PANTHER CUB/TOTS CAMPERS
All of the above, plus:
Change of clothes
focus on having a fun camp experience, not on keeping their clothes clean. If they are in a particularly active session, their clothes should be appropriate for such activities.)
Light jacket/fleece
Rain gear (if applicable)
Hat/sunglasses (optional)
Swimsuit/Towel/Change clothes (Panther Cubs & Super Summer Day Camp every day)
If your child requires bathroom assistance, please pack them a diaper bag for the week with wipes, cream, diapers, and a change of clothes.
Full day campers can bring rest time supplies (i.e. blanket, stuffed animal, pillow), if desired. Mats are provided.
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SPORTS and Outdoor Adventure CAMPERS
All of the above, plus:
Hockey:
Hockey skates/pads/helmet
Hockey stick
Mouth guard
Circus:
Long, light, form-fitting pants to use for aerials (i.e. legging/yoga style, sweats or bike shorts
Sports bra for female campers
DO NOT BRING
Seacoast United Soccer (ages 7-14):
Soccer cleats
Shin guards
Mouth guards
Soccer ball
Tennis: Clothing appropriate for the weather, tennis racket, rain gear, sunscreen, water bottle, hat/visor
Dance:
Comfortable clothes to move in (no jeans please!) – leotard not required
Old shirt for painting/art activities
Cellphones, electronics, toys, collectible cards, pocket knives, money, other valuables.
