FAQs

egypt explorer 2Why choose Camp Captivate?

We feel that a number of factors differentiate our camp from others available throughout the South Bay:

  • For our S.T.E.A.M. Camp Jr. and S.T.E.A.M. Camp Plus, we offer technology class each day to teach programming, problem-solving, and/or technology/computer skills.
  • Science classes are taught by teachers with Bachelor’s degrees in a Science field and some have a Masters degree and/or Science Teaching Credentials
  • For our Explorer Camp, we created a multifaceted curriculum, which includes daily physical activity and team-building as well as a weekly guest speaker.
  • Outstanding staff to student ratio (varies by age of camper).
  • Classes are small so that each child gets the attention he/she deserves.
  • We keep the entire camp small, so that it is easier to meet everyone.
  • We feel all connections are important. We build a relationship with each camper and his/her family.
  • Extended care is available to bridge the gap between the end of camp and the end of the parents’ work day.
  • Discounts and scholarships are available.

Where is the camp located?

Milikin Basics+ Elementary School
615 Hobart Terrace
Santa Clara, CA 95051

Is there air conditioning in the classrooms?

Yes. This NEW facility is air conditioned.

What are the hours of the camp?

Captivate Explorer Camp:

  • Camp: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
  • AM Care: 8:00 – 9:00 am
  • PM Care: 4:00 – 5:00 pm

Captivate S.T.E.A.M. Camp Jr:

  • Camp: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
  • AM Care: 8:00 – 9:00 am
  • PM Care: 4:00 – 5:00 pm

Captivate S.T.E.A.M. Camp Plus:

  • Camp: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
  • AM Care: 8:00 – 9:00 am
  • PM Care: 4:00 – 5:00 pm

Is there extended care available after camp?

We offer before and after camp extended care, for an additional fee of $10 per hour. This will help extend the camp day from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Any time spent in extended care will be charged the full hour. Parents who pick up their child after 5:00 pm will be charged $1/minute late pick-up fee due at the time of pick-up in the form of cash or check.

What ages can attend your camps?

In general, we accept campers in ages 5 to 13, and campers must be at least 5 years old. We recommend that Kinders have completed transitional K or a full-day preschool program.

  • Captivate Explorer Camp: Ages 5 –  7
  • Captivate S.T.E.A.M. Camp Jr.: Ages 7 – 10
  • Captivate S.T.E.A.M. Camp Plus: Ages 10 – 13

Note: We will NOT be able to accept 4-year-olds who are enrolled in a preschool program, but we would love to have them when they turn five. There are different licensing rules for children under 5. Thanks for understanding!

Will all the kids be together in mixed-age groups?

Children are grouped by age ranges (grade bands) in each program of the four programs we offer. However, there will be free play and outside recreational time in which kids in all four programs will have the opportunity to interact with one another.

What is the camp ratio?

It depends on the program. In Explorers, the ratio will not exceed 1:12. For the S.T.E.A.M. Jr and S.T.E.A.M. Plus programs, the ratio will not exceed 1:16.

What are the qualifications of the camp staff?

All of our camp teachers are experienced and most are credentialed. All staff members have been fingerprinted and have undergone a comprehensive background check. The director and most teachers are CPR/First aid certified. Camp assistants are college or high school students who have experience working with children. A teacher will be present at all times to supervise the campers and assistants.

Camp Captivate Week 1 2014 001 2Do you offer special deals, discounts, or promotions?

You bet! We do offer some special promotions, discounts, and deals during the year. See our promotions page.

Do you offer scholarships?

We do offer some scholarships (up to 25 percent off) based on need. Each family’s situation is evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Learn more about our scholarship program.

What is your schedule change policy?

If a schedule change needs to be made after registration, and there is space in another week, every effort will be made to switch your child to the requested week. We will charge a $50 transfer fee for making the change, due in the form of a check made out to “Camp Captivate”.

What is your refund policy?

Summer Camp Refunds:

  • March 1 – 31: 75% refund
  • April 1 – 30: 50% refund
  • May 1 – on: NO REFUND

Do the campers get physical activity?

Yes, we have one hour of PE daily in all our programs. Also, students will have outside play time at the playground and fields of the school facility.

Do you provide lunch or a lunch service?

Unfortunately, we do not. Please bring a labeled, insulated lunch box with ice pack inside. Please do NOT pack items that contain nuts or nut products due to nut allergies.

What should my child bring each day?

Please have your camper bring the following items each day:

  • Snack
  • Water Bottle (with name on it)
  • Lunch (in a labeled insulated lunch box with ice pack inside)
  • Hat (optional, but recommended for outdoor activities)

Note: Please apply sunblock before camp, as we will be unable to apply it during camp. Please make sure your child knows how to apply sunblock for him/herself.

Is there a camp t-shirt policy?

Yes, every child receives one complimentary camp t-shirt (which will be distributed on the first day of camp each week).

Camp Captivate t-shirts must be worn each day and additional shirts may be purchased for $12. A limited number of “loaner shirts” may be available, but not guaranteed. It is highly recommended that parents purchase an additional shirt.

What should my child wear each day?

Comfortable clothing including the camp t-shirt and sneakers (no sandals please). Be sure to apply sunblock before dropping them off at camp!

What kind of technology is needed in the S.T.E.A.M. camp technology activities?

For all S.T.E.A.M. camps, some hardware or devices will be provided by camp and we will be in computer classroom filled with desktop computers. However, we will also have some activities which may recommend bringing a personal laptop or an ipad or phone as an option. We will send out emails with the exact technological needs of each camp. Student who do not have their own devices will simply work in partners with another student and will not be excluded from learning opportunities.

As a parent, how will I know what my kids are learning about?

The director will send daily email updates about the highlights of camp.

CampCaptivateWalklikeanEgyptian2014220_zps69cd1c4d 3How do I get my kids’ work from the week?

For all camps, all projects will go home in a bag on the final day of camp (Friday). These projects are filed in the bags throughout the week upon completion.

Is there a parent presentation?

All parents are welcome to join us for the final presentation during the last 30 minutes of camp on Friday. This presentation will include a photo slide show of the events for the week as well as kids sharing about their “favorite activity” in the camp. This has been a really special time for kids to “show off” all that they have learned.

What is the daily schedule?

Please see the page for each camp for a sample daily schedule.

How can you be better prepared to help children with allergies and/or asthma?

For children with allergies or asthma, please help us by completing these forms with details about your child’s needs.