Sheldrake Programming FAQs

Can I stay with my child during Sheldrake programming?
Sheldrake offers assorted programs for families throughout the year, when children attend with their parents/caregiver, as well as “Mommy and Me” weekly classes for ages 2-3. For programs designed as drop-off programs, parents/caregivers are asked to drop their child off at the program start time and return for pickup.

My child receives professional services from a SEIT or other support provider. Can this person accompany my child to Sheldrake programs?
Yes—in fact, we encourage this. Please indicate this on your program registration form in the “Special Needs” section.

I need to cancel my program registration. What is the cancellation policy?
Sheldrake programs typically proceed in inclement weather, unless hazardous conditions occur. In the event that Sheldrake should cancel a program (or a portion thereof), either a makeup will be scheduled or a refund will be issued (proportionate to the canceled event).

For classes and camps, participant cancellation requires a minimum of one week’s notice (in writing to scheduling@sheldrakecenter.org; be sure to obtain written confirmation of receipt), and a 25% cancellation fee will be charged. Refunds will not be issued under other circumstances.

Parties must be paid in full to reserve a date; 50% of the fee is refundable if cancellation occurs at least two weeks before the event. No refunds are issued thereafter.

My child(ren) will be unable to attend the full week of Sheldrake Mini-Camp. Can I sign up for a portion of the program dates?
Camp registration requires payment in full for the scheduled dates. Children who are unable to attend on any given date are not eligible for a refund.

Can my child be in the same group as a friend or sibling?
For some camp programs, children might be divided into groups. Please communicate any requests at the time of registration. We’re often able to accommodate these requests, but groupings are not guaranteed. Please contact us to discuss any sensitive situations. Note that there is only one group of children for our weekly classes.

Registration for an upcoming program is full. Can I be added to the wait list?
Yes. To be added to the wait list, please complete the program registration form on the Sheldrake website as you normally would. Your information will be recorded, but you won’t be charged a fee. If a spot should become available, you will be notified via email and then invoiced for the applicable fee.

How early can we arrive to our Sheldrake program?
Participants are encouraged to arrive in the parking area a few minutes early, especially for those who are unfamiliar with our location. Our naturalists are busy setting up for the day prior to the start of each program, so please enjoy our grounds (including a playground adjacent to the parking areas) until the program start time.

Can I host my child’s birthday party at Sheldrake?
Birthday parties are offered on a limited basis and exclusively as a benefit of Sheldrake annual membership. Learn about Sheldrake parties here and please complete the inquiry form to request an event. Party availability is not guaranteed, even for Sheldrake members. Note that parties are not offered from late June through mid-to-late August.