Camps Handbook

The Camps Office is on the third floor of Harbourfront Centre’s Main Building, 235 Queens Quay West. To visit the Camps Office, please visit the security desk in the north lobby. They will give you access to the north elevator.

When camps are in session, the Camps Office hours are 8am–5pm (Monday to Friday, excluding holidays).

When camps are not in session, the Camps Office hours are 9am–4pm (Monday through Friday, excluding holidays).

Harbourfront Centre office staff use a hybrid work model, and hours are subject to change. Please contact the office directly to schedule an appointment.

Phone: 416-973-4093

Email: camps@harbourfrontcentre.com

Harbourfront Centre Camps
235 Queens Quay West
Toronto, ON M5J 2G8
Canada

For more information on how to get to Harbourfront Centre, learn more here.

All camp registrations are processed through the Harbourfront Centre Camps CampBrain registration portal. To sign up for camp, click here or on the “Register Now” button on any camp webpage.

Once you have chosen the camp and dates, you can proceed to fill in all the forms and complete the payment. If you need any assistance with this process, please contact the Camps Office.

If you do not have an existing account with us, you can create a new one through our registration portal. Please do not create multiple profiles for the same household, as this can cause registration problems later.

Please note: All payments are completed in the registration portal through credit cards or e-cheques only. All camp waivers and forms, including camper medical information, must be completed in CampBrain before you can complete registration.

Registration for Harbourfront Centre Camps will remain open as long as spots are available. The last day to register is at 9:00AM on Thursdays for camp sessions starting the following week.

Harbourfront Centre Camps are for children aged 4 to 15. Participant ages are determined based on the start date of the individual camp. In accordance with the Ontario Early Years Act, no camper under the age of 4 can participate in any program.

Exceptions may be made for certain camp programs if a camper is turning that age in the calendar year. Requests for accommodation can be made via email to the Camps Office. Proof of age may be asked at any point, ensuring a fair and transparent process for all.

Due to the nature of programming, the following types of camps are unable to accommodate campers younger than specified in the program description:

• Sailing Camps
• Canoe and Kayak Camps
• Leadership

Harbourfront Centre Camps are in high demand! If your chosen camp is full at the time of registration, you have the option to join a waitlist online. If a spot becomes available, you will be contacted by email and must confirm your spot within 24 hours. If you do not respond within this timeframe, the spot will be offered to the next person on the waitlist. 

Once you have confirmed, we will proceed with your registration and you will need to complete the forms and payment through the Registration Portal. Please note that you will only be contacted if a spot becomes available. 

Transfer fees will be waived in the case of waitlisted campers, though you will need to pay the fee difference if the new camp has a higher cost.    

You can register for multiple waitlists, but if you accept a spot in one camp, your spots on all other waitlists will be released. This policy helps ensure as many campers as possible are placed into available programs. 

Details of the cost of each camp can be found on our Explore Camps Page.

You can choose to pay the camp fee in full or opt for an installment plan. Installment payments are processed automatically on the first business day of each month through the Harbourfront Centre Camps’ CampBrain portal. The outstanding balance will automatically be distributed amongst the remaining installment dates. You will find this option in the final payment stage when registering.

Installment Dates:

• Feb 3, 2025 
• March 3, 2025 
• April 1, 2025 
• May 1, 2025 
• June 2, 2025 

Each registration with an installment plan will require a deposit of $100, regardless of payment plan. The last date for installment plan is June 2, 2025. Camp fees cannot be pro-rated. 

Please note: all installment plans are still subject to our cancellation policies.

Harbourfront Centre, a registered charitable organization, offers financial assistance through our Subsidy Program to help make its camps accessible to all. With limited funding and spaces available, we encourage you to apply early through our Subsidy Application Form. Please ensure your application is completed, as incomplete forms will not be considered. Applications will be reviewed within 4 to 6 weeks, and we are here to help—contact the Camps Office at 416-973-4093 or camps@harbourfrontcentre.com with any questions. 

• Cancellations free of charge can be processed upon request until March 31, 2025.
• From April 1, 2025, onwards, all cancellations will be subject to a $100 administrative fee (per camp per camper).
• Requests for cancellations must be made in writing via email 14 days or more before the start date of the program.
• No refunds will be issued for cancellations requested. less than 14 days before the program begins.
• Once your campers’ camp session has begun, no refunds will be issued.

Harbourfront Centre Camps reserves the right to cancel or combine classes if a minimum enrollment number is not met. If Harbourfront Centre Camps cancels the program, registrants will be notified up to a week before the start of the program, and registrants will be offered an alternative camp or a full refund.

• Transfers between camps or sessions will not be charged prior to March 31, 2025, if it is the first transfer/change. 
• Multiple changes and transfers to a household’s registrations prior to March 31, 2025 may be subject to a $30 administrative fee. 
• Transfers between camps, or sessions will be subject to a $30 administrative fee from April 1, 2025 (per camp, per camper).
• All transfer and change requests much be received in writing via email to the camps office. 
• Transfer requests made less than 14 days before the start of camp will not be eligible for a refund if moving from a higher fee camp to a lower fee camp. 

If a participant is unable to attend their camp for a day or for the entire session, make-up dates, refunds, or credits will not be offered. 

• Weather-related cancellations are not considered a valid reason for refund requests.  
• If a cancellation request is due to significant medical reasons, a doctor’s note must be provided within 24 hours. Such cancellations may be subject to a $100.00 administrative fee. 

* Stat Holiday (No camp on Tues, Jul 1) – 4-Day Camp Week
** Stat Holiday (No camp on Mon, Aug 4) – 4-Day Camp Week

Getting your camper(s) to Harbourfront Centre is easier than you think! Drop your camper at one of our bus stop locations, travel by TTC, UP Express or GO, take advantage of on-site parking during pick-up and drop-off or simply send your older camper as an independent traveller! Travel methods for your camper are selected at the time of Registration through the registration portal.

For information on how to get here, please visit our Explore page.

Camp families driving to Harbourfront Centre can take advantage of 20-minute parking with no charge during the camp session. Any additional time after 20 minutes is subject to charge. Any charges incurred for parking outside of 20 minutes are the responsibility of the visiting driver. Parking revenues help to support public programming and activities at Harbourfront Centre. Each time you park at Harbourfront Centre you are helping to contribute to the success of the many year-round events that you enjoy.

Camp families may park their vehicles in the parking garage at 235 Queens Quay West, at the bottom of Lower Simcoe Street. Please proceed directly into the underground parking facility (vehicle height restriction 78”) and do not stop in the laneway. Please note: Vehicles travelling east along Queen’s Quay cannot turn right onto our campus.

All of our parking lots have designated accessible parking with availability on a first-arrival basis. Additional paid parking is available at our Rees Street lot located on the northwest corner of Rees Street and Queens Quay West (318 Queens Quay West).

For information on how to get here, please visit our Explore page.

Location

All campers will be dropped-off and picked-up in the Marilyn Brewer Community Space located on the first floor at the north end of Harbourfront Centre’s main building.

Times

Morning camper drop-off opens 8:30am and will remain open until 9:15am.

Afternoon camper pick-up opens at 3:45pm and will remain open until 4:30pm. If you are later than 4:30pm to pick your camper up, they will be moved to the Extended Program. There will be a $20 charge per day for late pick-ups.

If you wish to pick up your camper earlier than the designated pick-up time, please see the early pick-up procedure here.

The Independent Travel option is available for the following campers:

• Campers aged 10 and older
• Campers under 10, only if they are accompanied by a sibling 12 or older

Location

Campers will sign-in and sign-out daily in the Lofts, located on the second floor, accessible by elevator directly across from the Information desk at the north end of Harbourfront Centre’s Main Building.

Times

Morning sign-in opens 8:30am and will remain open until 9:15am.

Afternoon sign-out opens at 3:45pm, times may vary by 5 or 10 minutes based on other campers’ arrivals. Please note: Independent Travel campers cannot leave their camp travel location until the Independent Travel Supervisor dismisses them.

Harbourfront Centre Staff are not responsible for the whereabouts of your camper(s) after 3:45pm. If you wish to pick up your camper earlier than the designated self-sign out time, please see the early pick-up procedure here.

The Extended Care Program and supervised round-trip bus transportation are available for an additional fee per week. Pre-registration is required. For more information on these add-on services, learn more here.

Campers in any travel method (Busing, Extended Care, or Camper Drop-Off and Pick-up), will only be released to a designated parent/guardian, or other authorized adult, as specified at registration. Please note, parents and guardians’ names do not get added to the list by default. All authorized pick-up persons must show a valid, government-issued photo ID (i.e., driver’s license, health card, passport, etc.) every day, without exception. This is for the safety of all our campers. You can update the authorized list through the Registration Portal and your Camp Brain account.

Campers arriving after the designated drop-off time must sign in at the Late Sign-In desk located at the Information desk at the north end of Harbourfront Centre’s main building. This desk will be open to receive campers between 9:15am and 9:45am. If your camper is arriving after 9:45am, please sign your camper in at the Camps Office.

Please note: if a camper’s arrival is significantly late, they may not be able to effectively rejoin their camp. Instead, your camper can spend the day at a different camp and still have access to our quality programming.

For camper absences, please contact the office by call or email to notify us. We may follow up as part of our attendance check process. If a camper is unable to attend a scheduled camp, make-up dates, refunds or credits will not be provided.

If you need to pick-up your camper earlier than the scheduled time, please follow these steps to submit: 

1. Contact the Camps Office: Email the office 24 hours in advance to request an early pick-up. If it is less than 24 hours, please call the Office directly to speak with someone. 
2. Receive Confirmation: Ensure you receive a confirmation email of the request from the Camps Office before coming to get your camper. 
3. Pick-Up Arrangements: The Office Staff will ensure campers are ready for their pick-up time in the Camps Office. 
4. Late Arrivals: If you are running late, please call the office directly so your camper can remain programming as long as possible to enjoy their camp experience. 
5. Pick–up Location: Campers will be available for pick-up in the Camps Office, located on the third floor of Harbourfront Centre’s main building. 

Please note: Independent Travelers still need to follow the steps listed above.  

The following are forms of Early Pick-up requests are not accepted: 

• Day-of or last minute requests for early pick-up between 3:15pm and 3:30pm cannot be accommodated and families will need to wait until 3:45pm, or until all campers are at their end of day locations. 
• Requests shared with non-office staff may not be communicated so be sure to contact the Camps Office directly.  
• Verbal notice from your camper or another camper’s guardian will not be accepted. 

Due to the nature of our 10-acre campus and camp activities, the coordination of last-minute pick-up requests will be subject to delays of 20 minutes or more. We ask for your patience during this process. 

Due to the nature of programming in our marine camps (Canoe, Kayak and Sailing), the coordination of early pick-ups may impact the experience of your camper.  Early pick-up times requested during the afternoon programming block (1pm-3pm) may result in your camper being unable to participate in on-the-water programming during this time.  Please consider this when arranging for early pick-ups. 

At the time of registration, you will select the method of travel for your camps: Camper Pick-up and Drop-Off, Busing, Independent Travel or Extended Care. If your plans have changed, you can make a change to your camper’s travel option by completing the following steps: 

1. Contact the Camps Office: Email the office 24 hours in advance to request a Travel Change for your camper. If it is less than 24 hours, please call the Office directly to speak with someone.  
2. Receive Confirmation: Ensure you receive confirmation of the request from the Camps Office to confirm that the change has been made successfully. 

The following are forms of Travel Change Requests are not accepted: 

• Day-of or last minute requests cannot be accommodated. 
• Requests shared with non-office staff may not be communicated so be sure to contact the Camps Office directly.  
• Verbal notice from your camper or another camper’s guardian will not be accepted. 

Please note: Travel Changes are not eligible for refunds.

Unless purchased at the time of registration, all campers need to bring a litter-less lunch, including two snacks and a refillable water bottle.

· All food items must be PEANUT/ TREE NUT/ NUT FREE

· We do not supply food to campers (unless previously purchased).

· Campers do not share food.

For information on our add-on service of meal plan, learn more here.

There are no refrigerators or microwaves available for campers. Campers are not allowed to go off-site to purchase lunch. If you wish to drop off lunch, special arrangements must be made 24 hours in advance by contacting the Camp Office.

Your camper’s lunch will be checked daily by camp staff. Campers with lunches containing nut products will have that meal/food item held back by camp staff and returned at the end of the day. Camp staff will contact you in the event your camper’s food is held back to arrange replacement food. We recognize that this may be a staple food source for many campers, and as such, a list of alternate foods has been provided to us by the Municipal Public Health Office.

While we cannot guarantee a nut-free camp as we share public spaces, we make every effort to provide the safest possible environment for all our campers. Some of our campers and staff have life-threatening food allergies. Please aid us by ensuring your camper’s lunch is entirely peanut/tree nut/ nut free and that campers do not bring food to share with others.

Several of our camps offer Open House performances, exhibitions or a show and tell during the final days of their sessions. Guardians will be notified about Open House schedules in your parent newsletter ahead of your time at camp, and a reminder will be sent home 1 day prior.

If you choose to pick-up your camper after their scheduled Open House, a sign-out desk will be set up at each designated Open House location and staff will assist you. Standard sign-out procedures are in effect: campers will only be released to designated individuals with a valid photo ID.

If your camper chooses to stay after their Open House, programming and end-of-day procedures will continue for the afternoon.

A selection of our camps will travel to the Toronto Islands. Trips to the islands are indicated in the parent newsletter, so you can plan. We adhere to a staff ratio of 1:8 minimum when off site.

A selection of our camps will participate in water-based activities on-site at Harbourfront Centre (weather permitting). Guardians will be notified about Water Days in your parent newsletter ahead of your time at camp, and a reminder will be sent home 1 day prior. If your camper does not wish to participate, alternative activities are always provided. The following items should be packed on water days:

• Campers should come to camp with a bathing suit on and water shoes (or shoes your camper can get wet).
• Pack an extra set of clothes if campers choose to wear their clothes during the activities
• Pack a towel
• Extra pair of dry shoes
• Many campers also bring an extra T-shirt to wear during the activities for added sun protection.

At Harbourfront Centre Camps we offer a wide array of activities, what to bring and wear varies based on your registered camp. The following is a list to ensure you, and your camper are prepared for the week of fun! We encourage our camp families to pack for their week so they can keep track of their belongings.

1. A litter-less lunch, including 2 snacks
2. A refillable water bottle (twist top or collapsable straw are recommended)
3. Clothing that is appropriate for your camp. All campers should be dressed for the weather, every camp will spend a minimum of 1 hour a day outdoors.
   • Artists dress for art making!
   • Performers dress in comfortable clothes to move around in!
   • Marine campers come prepared to get in the water, not cotton clothes.
   • Closed toe shoes are required (campers will not be permitted to camp in slides or flip flop sandals)
4. Sun protection – hats and sunscreen
5. Change of clothes (for our young camper and Marine programs)
6. No electronics or items of high value. Harbourfront Centre does not take responsibility for loss of stolen items while at Harbourfront Centre Camps.

It is recommended that all items brought to camp are labelled with your camper’s name for easy identification.

Campers who are registered for our Marine programs should follow the essential guidelines about what to bring and wear. Below is a list of additional items that should be packed for our Marine Camps:

1. Additional Sun Protection: UVA & UVB Clothing and Sunglasses with floating eye strap.
2. Clothing: Spare set of dry clothes, a waterproof rain jacket (even on sunny days), a bathing suit and towel and an extra bag for wet clothes
3. Dry Bag or waterproof case, Campers take all their belongings onto the water with them in their boats, canoes or kayaks.

Life jackets/PFDs will be provided; if your camper has a Transport Canada-approved life jacket, they are welcome to bring it to camp. Campers who use their own equipment will have it checked by instructors before use.

It is recommended that all items brought to camp are labelled with your camper’s name for easy identification.

Harbourfront Centre Camps is committed to acting in the best interest of all campers, staff, and visitors in matters of health and safety. Therefore, Harbourfront Centre Camps have specific set policies to deal with relevant health issues, concerns, and conditions. Our policies and practices are in line with Ontario Camps Association (OCA) standards and similar to various school board policies and standards as well. For specific information please feel free to contact the Camps Office at 416-973-4093.

Please note: All campers attending Harbourfront Centre Camps must possess either a valid OHIP card or subscribe to private health insurance.

All medical forms are required to complete your camper’s registration online. Medical and camper information are treated with strict confidentiality in accordance with Federal and Provincial legislation. This includes the Ontario Health Care Consent Act, Personal Health Information Protection Act 2004 (PHIPA), the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA), the Canadian Human Rights Code, the Child and Family Services Act, and the respective Colleges’ regulations, code of ethics and standards of practice.

Parents/caregivers may be contacted by camp staff if clarification is required; the more information we have, the better we are able to meet a camper’s needs.

Failure to properly disclose all relevant camper information may result in the removal of a camper from the camp program.

All medication taken while at camp must be indicated on medical forms, stored in the Camps Office (except for EpiPens and inhalers) and self-administered by campers under Harbourfront Centre Camps staff supervision. Camp staff DO NOT administer any medication to campers. If campers cannot self-administer you must make arrangements to drop by at lunch or an appropriate time to administer medication. Please give all medication directly to the Camps Office, Bus Marshall, Extended Program Day Supervisor or Camper Drop-Off Supervisor. Please leave any non-essential medication at home.

Children attending Harbourfront Centre Camps must have immunization against communicable diseases in line with Ontario’s Immunization of School Pupils Act (ISPA). Campers must be appropriately immunized against designated diseases, unless they have a valid exemption, with proper documentation. All immunization requirements for camp attendance align with Ontario’s publicly funded immunization schedule. If you have a valid exception, please contact the Camps Office.

If your child requires an EpiPen while at camp, you must indicate this in the Medical Information form completed during registration. We require that all EpiPens be carried on the camper’s body at all times, in either a fanny-pack or other small bag. Please remind the Harbourfront Centre staff on the first day check-in where your camper’s EpiPen is. In the event of an allergic reaction, standard emergency procedures will apply and 911 will be contacted. Campers who arrive without their EpiPen will be unable to participate in camp activities and Parents/caregivers will be asked to immediately pick-up their child or drop-off their EpiPen.

If your child requires an Inhaler while at camp, you must indicate this in the Medical Information form completed during registration. We require that all Inhalers be carried on the camper’s body at all times, in either a fanny-pack or other small bag. Please remind the Harbourfront Centre staff on the first day check-in where your camper’s Inhaler is. In the event of an reaction, standard emergency procedures will apply and 911 will be contacted. Campers who arrive without their Inhaler will be unable to participate in camp activities and Parents/caregivers will be asked to immediately pick-up their child or drop-off their Inhaler.

Each camp is supported by a trained and certified First Aider. Additionally all campers, staff and visitors receive guidance from a Camps Healthcare staff member with advanced certifications and experience in both physical and emotional health and well-being.   

Ensuring a safe and fun experience for your camper(s) is our top priority. To achieve this, all camp staff complete a week of training before camp begins. We require that camp staff complete the following courses: 

• First Aid and CPR  
• Harbourfront Centre Emergency Procedures  
• Harbourfront Centre Child Protection Training 
• Harbourfront Centre Camp policies and Procedures 
• Bronze Cross or Life Saving Courses (Marine Camps) 
• Sail Canada Certification (Sailing Camps)  

All Harbourfront Centre Education staff are also required to have current First aid and CPR, and clear criminal record checks with vulnerable sector screening. 

Campers exhibiting signs of illness will be removed from their camp and cared for. We will contact you and ask that you (or someone on the authorized pick-up list) pick up your camper as soon as possible. To better protect the health and safety of Harbourfront Centre Camps participants, please do not send your child to camp if they have or exhibit any symptoms of the following:

• Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis)
• Strep Throat
• Chicken Pox (Varicella)
• COVID-19
• Fifth Disease
• Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) or any other communicable disease.

If your child is suspected to have any of the above, or has vomited, has a rash or diarrhea you will be asked to pick up your child immediately. Children may not attend camp if they have:

• A temperature of 101 degrees Fahrenheit (38.4 degrees Celsius).
• Not been fever free for 24 hours.
• Vomited while at camp or within the last 24 hours.
• Diarrhea (abnormally loose, watery bowel movements that are much more frequent then usual)
• Been on prescribed medication for less than 24 hours for a condition requiring exclusion from the program according to the Communicable Disease Program.
• A rash that has not been identified by a physician to be determined as not contagious or that is worsening.
• Have a severe cold with fever, sneezing and heavy nasal drainage that affects their mood and ability to participate in the program.

If you have any questions, please consult your healthcare provider or call Telehealth Ontario TTY: 1-866-797-0007.

Campers attending Harbourfront Centre Camps must be free from head lice. If Camps staff have reason to suspect that a camper may have head lice, the Camps Healthcare staff will conduct a discrete check. If a camper is found to have lice they will be asked to be picked up and will not be permitted to attend camp until 24 hours after the start of treatment, with a signed note. The Camps Healthcare staff will also check the progress of the treatment prior to the camper rejoining their camp.

If you have any questions, please consult your healthcare provider or call Telehealth Ontario TTY: 1-866-797-0007.

All children attending Harbourfront Centre Camps must be toilet trained. We are not equipped to facilitate the toilet training of campers and at no time are Harbourfront Centre Camp Staff permitted to change camper(s). For our youngest Campers, aged 4–6 years old, we ask parents and guardians to pack a change of clothing.

In the event of a recurring of accidents, the Camps Staff will follow-up with the Parent/Guardians about next steps. This may also result in removal from Harbourfront Centre Camps without refund.

All camps have an indoor space in the event of rain or abnormal climatic conditions (cold, high winds, smog, air quality advisories, extreme hot temperatures, etc). The following criteria will call for alternative programming for your campers:

• Severe thunderstorm watch is issued by Environment Canada, or if lightning is detected within 30KM, or high winds (20+kts) are observed.
• Hot weather warnings (35C+) involve additional time in the water for marine camps, suspension of offsite programming, additional breaks and additional water consumption for campers and staff.
• Wind Knots, our Sailing Camps will be impacted in the event of high winds. Our Partner THNC will monitor this and send daily emails with weather and program updates.
• Camps may also be modified if the weather presents a negative experience for our campers. This modification will be made at the discretion of the Senior Manager.

Please dress your child appropriately and make sure they are carrying enough water to stay hydrated. There will be opportunities to refill their water bottles throughout the day. They are also encouraged to wear adequate sunscreen and carry some to re-apply as needed.

• Cancellations free of charge can be processed upon request until March 31, 2025.
• From April 1, 2025, onwards, all cancellations will be subject to a $100 administrative fee (per camp per camper).
• Requests for cancellations must be made in writing via email 14 days or more before the start date of the program.
• No refunds will be issued for cancellations requested. less than 14 days before the program begins.
• All refund requests are subject to a $100.00 administrative fee.
• Once your campers’ camp session has begun, no refunds will be issued.

Harbourfront Centre Camps reserves the right to cancel or combine classes if a minimum enrollment number is not met. If Harbourfront Centre Camps cancels the program, registrants will be notified up to a week before the start of the program, and registrants will be offered an alternative camp or a full refund.

For more information on camper Absence and Missed Days please see more information below.

• Transfers between camps or sessions will not be charged prior to March 31, 2025, if it is the first transfer/change. 
• Multiple changes and transfers to a household’s registration after March 31, 2025 will be subject to a $30 administrative fee. 
• Transfers between camps, or sessions will be subject to a $30 administrative fee from April 1, 2025 (per camp, per camper).
• All transfer and change requests much be received in writing via email to the camps office. 
• Transfer requests made less than 14 days before the start of camp will not be eligible for a refund if moving from a higher fee camp to a lower fee camp. 

All transfer and change request are subject to our Registration and Cancellations policy.

If a participant is unable to attend their camp for a day or for the entire session, make-up dates, refunds, or credits will not be offered.

• Weather-related cancellations are not considered a valid reason for refund requests.
• If a cancellation request is due to significant medical reasons, a doctor’s note must be provided within 24 hours. Such cancellations may be subject to a $100.00 administrative fee.

Harbourfront Centre camps are for children aged 4 to 15. Participant ages are determined based on the start date of the individual camp. No camper under the age of 4 can participate in any program in accordance with the Ontario Early Years Act. Exceptions may be made for certain camp programs if a camper is turning that age in the calendar year. A request for age accommodation can be made via email to the Camps Office.

Due to the nature of programming, the following types of camps are unable to accommodate campers younger than specified in the program description:

• Sailing Camps
• Canoe and Kayak Camps
• Circus Camps
• Leadership

Please note that the age clause is applicable irrespective of skill level.

We encourage you and your campers to think of camp as time to unplug from electonic devices. We are not responsible for loss or damage to any phones, electronic devices or any other valuables brought to camp. If we see these devices at camp, we will ask campers to put them away.

Campers carrying cell phones or smart watches to connect with parents after camp will be expected. Campers will be instructed to keep the phone or smart watch off and, in their bag, or backpack during the camp day. Campers will not be allowed to use these items during camp, unless with staff permission.

If you need to get a message to your child while they are at camp, please call the Camps Office directly and we will be happy to relay the message.

Sunscreen should be applied in the morning before your camper has arrived at camp. Please send additional sunscreen and our camp staff will remind campers to reapply before going outside.

Please note the camp does not provide sunscreen for campers, nor can staff physically assist in the application of sunscreen (with the exception of our youngest campers or campers who identify during the registration process as needing additional support).

Harbourfront Centre Camps has several policies and procedures to help protect our campers, staff and volunteers during extreme heat and weather. When we encounter extreme weather, our camper’s safety is our number one priority, and your campers’ programming will be modified to suit this condition. Camp staff will engage campers in programming that may be indoor, arts and crafts or group games that may be slightly different then the rest of their time at camp. We ask camp families and campers for patience while the time navigates these circumstances.

For more information or to discuss any of our policies, please contact the Camps Office directly.

At Harbourfront Centre Camps, new experiences, learning opportunities and a safe space are important to develop critical life skills. As such, we expect all Harbourfront Centre Camps community members to demonstrate respect for others, co-operation and kindness in their interactions with others.

Under the Ontario Human Rights Code, every person has a right to equal treatment with respect to services, goods and facilities, without discrimination because of race, ancestry, place of origin, colour, ethnic origin, citizenship, creed, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, family status, record of offences, receipt of public assistance or disability.

Failure to comply with the Code of Conduct may result in removal from Harbourfront Centre Camps without refund. Should an incident arise, the camp staff reserve the right to take appropriate corrective action.

With this commitment, the following Code of Conduct is expected of all Harbourfront Centre Camps community members (campers, staff, volunteers, guardians, visitors, etc.) at all times.

All members of the Harbourfront Centre Camps community shall:

Respect yourself.

Members are expected, in accordance with their age, to take appropriate care of themselves (follow Health and Safety policies and procedures, practice self-care and self-advocacy, and participate to the fullness of their capabilities and comfort levels).

Respect the community.

Harbourfront Centre has a 10-acre site, nestled along the beautiful shoreline of Lake Ontario. All community members shall treat Harbourfront Centre property, Lake Ontario and the property of others with care. All members will work together and contribute to the well-being (physical, emotional, mental, environmental, social, etc.) of others to create a positive camp community.

Respect others.

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion are promoted through a positive display of respect of all persons in speech, action and behaviour, absent of violence, harassment, racism, intimidation, and discrimination of any kind.

All members of Harbourfront Centre Camps are expected to treat other members with respect. Guardians, visitors, family members, and individuals dropping off/picking up campers who do not follow this Code of Conduct will be asked to leave campus and will not be allowed to return for the remainder of the camps season.

Harbourfront Centre Camps recognizes that inappropriate and unacceptable behavior towards campers or camp staff requires a serious response, as detailed in the Harbourfront Centre Camper Behaviour Policy.

Minor/ Moderate Incidents

In the case of minor incidents, the camper will be addressed at the time of the incident by their Bus Marshalls/Counsellor/Instructor and/or Facilitator/Head Instructor. In the case of moderate incidents, the incident will be addressed with a Senior staff member. A parent/guardian will be contacted and informed of the incident.

Serious Incidents

In the case of serious incidents, like inappropriate physical behaviour, possession of alcohol and/or illegal drugs, being under the influence of alcohol and/or illegal drugs, vandalism or theft of property, verbal/physical abuse, bullying/harassment, racism, discrimination or jeopardizing the safety and well-being of other campers, the camper will discuss their behaviour with a Senior staff member. A parent/guardian will be contacted and informed of the incident immediately. The camper may be placed on a Camper Behaviour Plan to help resolve the challenges faced.

Suspension

Escalated incidents may lead to Campers may be suspended from camp at the discretion of Camp Management. Suspensions are not eligible for refund. Please refer to our cancellation policy for more information.

The stamp of a great camp!

The Ontario Camps Association (OCA) continues to be recognized as a world leader in organized camping for children and youth. As an Accredited Member of the Ontario Camps Association, we are proud to display its logo, an icon that stands for a quality camping experience. We adhere to the highest standards of safety, supervision and quality programming to ensure the camp experience is a positive one for all involved.

For more information on the OCA and to see the standards of accreditation, learn more here.

Kathrynn is an experienced arts manager with over fifteen years of experience at various arts and culture institutions including Station Gallery, Markham Museum and The Living Arts Centre. Kathrynn started her career as an arts educator; she then moved into art administration and management. Supporting arts education is a passion of hers. In addition to her primary career, she is a skilled visual artist with training in many artistic mediums which inspire her programming. She holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from York University as well as a Graduate Certificate in Arts Management from Centennial College.

Indu has been part of 3 seasons of Harbourfront Centre Camps. She comes with over 6 years of customer service and office administration experience in different fields. Indu holds a master’s degree in history and a Graduate Certificate in Arts Administration and Cultural Management from Humber University.

All extended day campers will be dropped off and picked up at the Lakeside Terrace, located at the south end of Harbourfront Centre’s Main Building at 235 Queens Quay West.

Morning camper drop-off opens at 8am and will remain open until 9:15am.

Afternoon camper pick-up opens at 3:45pm and will remain open until 5:30pm. If you are later than 5:30pm to pick your camper up, there will be a $20 charge per day for late pick-ups.

Cancellation requests must be made in writing via email at least 14 days before the start date of your child’s camp session. There are no refunds for cancellations requested once camp has started. We do not pro-rate if the Extended Care Program service is added after the start of the camp session.

• Due to the nature of the service, we cannot accommodate food allergies.
• We do not recommend the meal plan for children who are picky eaters, as the food is premade and cannot accommodate substitutions.
• Depending on your camper’s appetite, we recommend that you send additional snacks if needed.

• The last day to cancel a meal plan is Tuesdays at noon before each camp session starts.
• Refunds will only be processed for those who cancel the meal plan in writing via email.
• Any cancellation request after this deadline will not be processed and no refunds will be processed once camp starts.
• If a camper misses a day of camp, the meal plan is not prorated.
• Full refunds for meal plans are not processed for unsatisfactory service and will be at the discretion of the Camps Team.

The Lunch Lady has been preparing individual catered lunches since 1993. Today, it is the largest provider in Canada, serving thousands of meals in schools, camps and daycare centres through its network of locally owned and operated Lunch Lady Kitchens.

All meals are prepared fresh daily in peanut/nut-free, provincially inspected kitchens. Menus offer choices familiar to and enjoyed by all children while meeting and exceeding the nutritional guidelines set by the province.

Bus stop locations and times vary based on your registration. To view the full list of addresses and time, click here. 

The following are recommendations for a successful busing experience:

• Do a practice run to bus locations before the start of camp to ensure you know where the stop is located and where the loading zone and parking area are situated.
• We ask that camp families arrive 5-10 minutes before the scheduled pick-up/drop-off time.
• Call the bus hotline daily for updates on your route at 416-973-1620.

For daily route updates during our afternoon busing period, call our Busing Hotline at 416-973-1620.

We will make every effort to stick to our published schedule; however, the first few days of each session often sees delays as campers and parents/guardians become accustomed to our practices. Delays can be unavoidable due to traffic conditions and unforeseen circumstances.

A Harborfront Centre Bus Marshall will meet you and your campers at the bus. They are responsible for bus attendance and checking in each camper entering the bus. Buses will begin receiving campers as early as 8:00am, with an estimated arrival time at Harbourfront Centre between 8:45am and 9:00am. Please refer to your route schedule for specific timing. Buses will wait 5 minutes after their scheduled pick-up time before they continue with the route.

If your camper misses the bus in the morning, please make arrangements to get to the Harbourfront Centre by other means. If you miss this bus, you are welcome to attempt to meet the bus at the next stop along its route. Please note: the bus can pick up campers only at scheduled stops.

A Harborfront Centre Bus Marshall is responsible for bus attendance and signing out each camper at each stop. They will follow the authorized pick-up procedure. Campers will only be released to a designated Parent/Guardian or other authorized adult, as specified at registration. For more information on the authorized pick-up procedure, learn more here.

Campers will not be allowed to leave the bus stop unattended unless otherwise marked on the bus form during registration. Please be sure this information is indicated correctly on the bus forms.

If you miss your afternoon pick-up time, your camper will remain on the bus and be taken to the other stops. We will make every effort to contact you to advise you of this.

Requests for cancellation eligible for a full refund must be made in writing via email 14 days or more before the start date of the program.

• No refunds will be issued for cancellations requested less than 14 days before the program begins.
• Cancellation requests must be received in writing via email.
• No refunds will be processed once the camp session has started.

Harbourfront Centre Camps reserves the right to cancel a bus if a minimum enrollment number is not met. If Harbourfront Centre Camps cancels your bus, registrants will be notified up to a week before the start of the program, and registrants will be offered an alternative bus or a full refund for the bus service only.