Before Care

No, unfortunately we cannot accommodate the schedule difference between Pre-K and K-8.

We're not offering after care this year so we can focus on running high-quality programs and continuing to grow our toy library. As a small team, we're just not set up for daily after-school care right now.

While we can’t offer after care, we are continuing to offer our popular School Break Camps on nearly every day the district has an early dismissal or day off. It’s one of the ways we try to meet the needs of our community while staying true to what we do best

Yes! You are able to book the days you need care on a day-by-day basis for the entire school year.

All programs offer a 10% sibling discount. Use code: SIBLING10

Yes! Rutabaga offers sliding scale enrollment fees through our scholarship fund to help make our programs accessible to more families. This fund is supported entirely through our own program budgets — we do not receive government funding — and we’re proud to offer this support as part of our community mission. No proof of financial status is required. Just email camp@rutabagaphilly.com to inquire about availability and review our sliding scale options. Discounts typically range from 10% to 50% off, depending on your family’s needs and the available funds.

Scholarships are available on a first-come, as-needed basis, and while spots are limited, we do our best to accommodate as many families as possible.

We also offer payment plans. To set up a payment play, just choose your booking dates and select Payment Play beside the Pay Now button at checkout. Follow the instructions to set up automatic weekly payments. If you need to make changes to your payment plan, please contact us at camp@RutabagaPhilly.com at least 5 days before the next payment is due.

All registrations are nonrefundable. Registrations are a commitment with staffing and materials planned well in advance. Cancellations + Changes can be accommodated with requests made in advance: 6+ weeks before the month, cancellations receive Nature Arts Credit, less a $25 processing fee. 2+ weeks before the month, cancellations receive Nature Arts Credit, less a $50 processing fee. OR switches can be accommodated, space permitting, less a $15 processing fee. Special requests due to extenuating circumstances may be considered, on a case-by-case basis.

We understand that unforeseen circumstances, like illness, may arise. However, similar to our refund policy, we count on enrollment fees to ensure our staff receive fair wages and maintain regular schedules. While we strive to accommodate significant circumstances that result in missed days, your booking represents a commitment to supporting the sustainability of our programs.

Please contact us directly to discuss specific situations, and we will do our best to find a suitable solution.

Before Care happens at the Rutabaga Toy Library, where you will drop off your child. Please note that Before Care during School Break Camp will happen at "Camp Homebase" located at East Falls Presbyterian Church.

Morning Care is a screen-free program. While some older children may be used to relaxing with a device in the morning, we’ve found that personal screens make it harder to maintain a positive, inclusive play environment for all ages. We ask that children do not bring personal toys, as our space is already filled with open-ended play materials. However, older children are welcome to bring a book or a quiet, non-screen activity if they’d like something familiar to do during the morning.

Yes, all Rutabaga staff undergo a thorough vetting process including state, federal, and child abuse background checks, along with careful evaluation of references.

Our Tax ID # is 84-2366122. Additionally, all programming receipts can be generated from our new and easy-to-use online portal – FunJoin!