Spark Summer Camp FAQs

• • What are Spark camps all about?

    Spark's themed Summer camps focus on hands-on science, technology, engineering and art activities, as well as exploring the exhibits, watching Infinity Dome theatre shows, interacting with live science demonstrations and enjoying outdoor adventures. Campers may get a little messy, but that's how new skills are forged and confidence is built. Play is essential for healthy growth, so organized games are mixed in with free play time at every camp.

  • Can I send someone else to pick up my child?

    Parents/guardians are required to have documented the name, phone number and relationship of who will be picking up their camper on the sign in/out sheet. The name provided much match the government issued ID presented by the person picking up the child. Add an alternate pick-up person by calling or emailing Spark from a number/email address that we have on the Camper’s file, or by adding someone to the camper’s file on the morning of drop-off. Camp staff will not allow an adult that's not listed on your camper’s file to take the camper home. Picture ID is required for all adults picking up campers.

  • Do I have to pay for parking when picking up and dropping off my child?

    The first 45 minutes of parking is free for parents and caregivers dropping off and picking up campers! Simply activate a free 45-minute parking session at the ParkPlus terminals near the front doors. Beyond this time limit, parking is a $10 flat fee for the day...but remember, all Spark Members receive free parking year-round!

  • Can I modify the lunch menu or skip a day's lunch option?

    Spark's prepaid lunch options are offered as a full-week package with no modifications or substitutions.

    When sending lunches, please be aware that fridge and microwave facilities are not available and that many of our campers have nut allergies, mainly to peanuts. Spark cannot guarantee a peanut-free facility due to the public nature of the centre. For the safety of campers, Spark asks that you avoid sending lunches that contain peanuts.

  • Can I pick up my child early?

    If a parent/guardian requires taking their camper out early for any reason, just let the camp leaders know in the morning at drop-off. When arriving for early pick-up, please check in with the front desk staff who can help locate your child’s camp.

  • Do we need to arrange transportation for camps at other locations around the city?

    Should a camp include an off-site location, Spark arranges all off-site transportation for the campers. That cost is already included in your registration fee.

  • What is your policy on aggressive behaviours?

    Spark works hard to ensure that camps are an amazing experience for everyone, from staff to campers and other visitors. Part of that commitment requires that we ensure no child disrupts the enjoyment or safety of the other campers through ongoing aggressive behaviour, bullying, the use of inappropriate language or other disruptive actions. Spark actively monitor these behaviours and, after appropriate steps are taken with the parent, may request a camper leave the camp altogether.

  • Where should we drop campers off upon arrival?

    When you arrive at the front entrance, a camp staff or volunteer will greet parents and campers on the first day of camp and help you locate your camper’s room. After you know your way during the rest of the week, parents and campers can follow signs, which will lead them to the Learning Centre or other instructional space.

  • What should my child bring/wear?

    Please ensure that your child is dressed for the weather forecast. Please dress for a bit of mess as well! An extra set of clothes for younger campers is also a good idea. Pack two snacks (for morning and afternoon breaks) and a lunch, too. When packing a lunch and snacks, please ensure that they are peanut-free.

  • What time do camps start and end?

    Summer camp hours are 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM with complimentary before (8:00 - 9:00 AM) and after (4:00 - 5:00 PM) care.

  • What if my child is under the recommended age for the program?

    Spark strives to ensure campers get the most out of their experience. Camps are designed and tested to be challenging enough only for the specified age range. Campers under five years old tend to find Spark full day camps too challenging, so parents of kids under five are encouraged to check out the half day camp options at some of the other camps in the city.

  • When should we arrive to Summer Camps?

    No later than 8:50 AM is recommended! Camp staff will be able to assist with sign-in promptly at 9:00 AM. Remember that complimentary care is offered from 8:00 - 9:00 AM and campers can be dropped off any time in that window.

  • What happens on the first day?

    Bring completed camp-related form(s) and try to remember the camp name! Many camps may be running concurrently across many age groups, so that knowledge helps speed up the morning sign-in process. Upon arrival, signs and staff will help guide the way.

  • What if I'm late picking up my child?

    Contact Spark’s Call Centre at (403) 817-6800, or our Manager of Youth Programs at (403) 852-4308.

  • Are electronic devices permitted at the camps?

    Spark requests that all electronic devices (including mobile phones, iPods, tablets, cameras and gaming consoles) be left at home to avoid loss or damage.

  • When is payment required?

    Payment in full is required at the time of booking. Refunds are available for cancellations up to two weeks prior to a camp start date, but a $25 administrative fee will apply.