School Break Camp

Adventure Awaits!

At Rutabaga Toy Library, we're all about blending outdoor adventure with creative exploration.

We provide a fun and engaging environment where kids can explore nature, create with found materials, and enjoy a break from the usual school routine.

Rooted in community and a love for our planet, our programs ensure that every child can unplug, unwind, and let their imagination soar.


 

School Break Camp is your plan B when schools are closed! Offered by-the-day on school holidays and early dismissals, we’ve got you covered.

Open to all any school student, from any school, enrollment in our Before/Aftercare program is not required.

All dates for the 2025-2026 school year are posted, save your spot early!

**School Break Camp follows the School District of Philadelphia calendar.

 

Early Dismissal Camp (12:30PM β€” 3:30PM+)

  • Our staff will pick up your child at dismissal from Mifflin and ensure a smooth transition to Camp Homebase / EFPC

  • Non-Mifflin students are welcome, and need to be dropped off.

  • Kids will enjoy free play, outdoor adventures and nature-inspired projects

  • Pickup is at 3:30PM, or you can opt for After Care until 5:30PM (times are flexible)

  • $55 per day

Days Off Camp (8:30AM β€” 3:30PM+)

  • Drop off at Camp Homebase/EFPC from 8:30-9 AM. Add Before Care (7:30-8:30 AM) for $12.

  • Kids will enjoy free play, nature exploration, and creative projects with nature’s treasures.

  • Pickup is at 3:30 PM, with optional After Care ($25) available until 5:30 PM. (times are flexible)

  • $95 per day


BOOKING PROCESS:

To make your booking experience even smoother, here are some handy tips to help you get started:

  • Logging In β€” No password required! Simply log in with your email or phone number and confirm with a code.

  • Add Participant β€” Create profiles for each child. You can edit these profiles anytime.

  • Select Participants β€” Select the child(ren) you want to book. Use "link" or "unlink" based on your scheduling needs.

  • Schedule Dates β€” Book any day for the whole school year as-needed. Note: on early dismissal days before care is available thorough our β€œBefore Care” offering at Rutabaga.

  • Checkout β€” Review your order summary, apply promo codes, and choose a payment plan if needed.


Frequently asked question

Check out our School Break Camp Handbook for more information. Feel free to email us if you still have questions: camp@RutabagaPhilly.com

What discounts are available?

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

IS SCHOLARSHIP ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE?

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 β€” we do not receive government funding β€” 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.

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 upon request. To get started, you’ll need to create a FunJoin account so we can apply any discount directly to your profile.

Do you have 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.

What is your cancellation policy?

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 $5 processing fee. 2+ weeks before the month, cancellations receive Nature Arts Credit, less a $10 processing fee. OR switches can be accommodated, space permitting, less a $5 processing fee. Special requests due to extenuating circumstances may be considered, on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us directly to discuss specific situations, and we will do our best to find a suitable solution..

Can I reschedule or use a credit later if my child is sick and misses a day?

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.

Can my Pre-K Student Come to Camp?

Unfortunately, we’re not able to accommodate the schedule difference between Pre-K and K–8 students. For our Full-Day Camps (where you drop off and pick up), we can sometimes welcome a limited number of Pre-K campers. However, our active, adventurous programs may not be the best fit for all younger children. If you think your Pre-K student might be a good match, please reach out to us at camp@rutabagaphilly.com before registering.

Where do the Nature Arts programs take place?

School Break Camps are held at our "Camp Homebase" located at East Falls Presbyterian Church (corner of Vaux St. and Midvale Ave. in East Falls), where all pickups and drop offs will occur.

Are drop-off and pick-up times flexible?

Yes! We provide contact information for arranging late drop-offs or early pickups.

Are staff required to submit a background check?

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

What do you do during rain or other weather conditions?

We aim to spend time outdoors unless there's severe weather, moving indoors for activities like games, crafts, and snacks. Please send raincoats and extra clothes/shoes on wet days..

What is the Tax ID #?

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

NOTE: Rutabaga's Nature Arts provides creative & environmental instruction for children through programs like camps and after-school activities. We are not a child care center. Participants should have a passion for exploration.