FAQs

 

 

How many weeks should I sign my child up for?

Summer at Brooks offers programs that run for one or two weeks, and many families choose to enroll their participants for four weeks or more. Each week provides its own engaging experiences, and a longer stay allows participants to remain with the same group and consistent staff, fostering strong relationships and a deeper sense of community.

Please note that participants may only begin sessions during designated start weeks to ensure continuity and connection.

Are swim lessons available?

Yes. Day Camp includes a daily Instructional Swim block based on the American Red Cross Learn to Swim curriculum. Participants swim twice each day—Instructional Swim in the morning and Recreational Free Swim in the afternoon. All swim activities take place in our two outdoor pools and are led by certified lifeguard/swim instructors. A brief swim assessment on the first day ensures every participant receives the appropriate level of instruction and support.

Stages & Studios participants also enjoy swim time several times per week, depending on the specific program. For details about swim schedules for your participant’s program, please contact the Summer at Brooks team at summerprograms@brooksschool.org

What is your camper-to-counselor ratio?

At Summer at Brooks, each group is led by two counselors (ages 16 and older) and supported by a Group Coordinator, who is a professional educator. Groups typically include 8 to 16 participants, depending on age. Participants remain with this team throughout the day and also engage with activity counselors who lead program-specific experiences.

With more than 130 staff members across campus, we prioritize thorough supervision, safety, and meaningful connections at all times.

Do I need to pack a lunch or snacks?

No. All full-day Summer at Brooks programs include lunch, a morning snack, and an afternoon treat. Fresh water is available throughout campus at multiple filling stations, and each participant receives a labeled water bottle to support hydration.

For ingredient details or dietary considerations, please visit our dining services page or contact our team.

Is my child required to be potty trained?

Yes. Children enrolled in Summer at Brooks must be fully toilet-trained. This means they can communicate bathroom needs, manage clothing independently, and do not wear diapers or pull-ups.

We understand that occasional accidents happen, especially with younger participants, and our staff will respond with care and discretion. However, children do need to be able to manage their bathroom needs independently in a group setting to ensure a positive and safe experience for everyone.

Do you offer bus transportation?

Yes. Summer at Brooks offers optional bus transportation with well-established routes serving a wide geographic area, including the Merrimack Valley, Boston’s North Shore, and Southern New Hampshire. This service is designed to support working families and provide a safe, reliable start and end to each camp day. Transportation is operated by a professional provider, with trained bus monitors on board every route. Families may choose one-way or round-trip service, and detailed route maps and stop locations are available here.

What will my child do at camp when it rains?

Summer at Brooks has extensive indoor facilities to keep participants safe, active, and engaged during inclement weather. Our campus includes a modern athletic center, well-equipped classrooms, and a variety of flexible indoor learning spaces.

If conditions are safe (no thunder or lightning), we embrace light rain and enjoy outdoor activities whenever possible. Whether indoors or outdoors, participants continue to enjoy a full and enriching camp experience.

When may I register?

Registration opens for all families on Monday, January 18, at 10:00 a.m

Is financial aid available?

Summer at Brooks is committed to making our programs as accessible as possible for families. We actively partner with local schools, community groups, and nonprofit organizations to award camperships each season. In addition, we may be able to offer limited financial assistance to individual applicants on a case-by-case basis, depending on available funding. Caregivers interested in exploring this option are encouraged to email summerprograms@brooksschool.org to begin the process.

To support affordability, we also offer flexible payment plans at no additional cost. Summer at Brooks covers all credit card processing fees and never charges a registration fee.

I don’t see the program I am looking for. Can you help?

Our registration system shows only the programs for which your participant is eligible based on age and grade. If you have questions or need help identifying the right fit, please reach out—we’re here to support your family.

What is the waitlist status?

If a program reaches capacity, this will be clearly indicated in the registration portal. Families may choose to join the waitlist, and a member of our team will contact you if a space becomes available.

Please note that waitlist movement can occur up until the program’s start date, so we encourage families to check back periodically.

How much is due at the time of registration?

A deposit of $100 per week or per Summer Term class is required to secure enrollment.

What is your refund policy?

Tuition is refundable for cancellations received before May 15, 2027. Beginning on May 15, 2027, no refund, proration, credit, or tuition reduction is available for any reason.

Participants who arrive late, depart early, or miss program days—whether due to personal choice, medical needs, or conduct-related decisions—are not eligible for refunds or credits.

Please note that all deposits are non-refundable and non-transferable, including between sessions or participants.

Tuition is refundable for cancellations received by the School before May 15, 2027. However, for cancellations made on or after May 15, 2027, no refund, proration, credit, or tuition reduction will be issued, regardless of the reason. Participants who start a Summer Program session late, leave early, or miss days—whether due to rule violations, medical reasons, or personal choice—will also not receive any refunds or credits. Please note that deposits are non-refundable and non-transferable, including between sessions and participants.

Where can I view the full terms and conditions for enrollment?

You can view our full terms and conditions for enrollment here. If you have any questions, a member of our team will be glad to support you.

HAVE MORE QUESTIONS?

We are happy to answer any questions you may have!