Frequently Asked Questions
What is the philosophy at Wild Roots?
At Wild Roots, we believe in the power of nature, creativity, and curiosity to inspire young minds. Rooted in the Montessori philosophy, we create child-centered environments where exploration and discovery lead the way.
We offer immersive summer camps, hands-on classes for homeschoolers, and engaging field trips for area schools—each designed to spark wonder and cultivate a deep connection to the natural world. Serving children ages 6-12, our programs integrate STEAM, the arts, and outdoor adventure, encouraging resilience, teamwork, and a lifelong love of learning.
What are the camp dates and times?
Registration for each week of camp is sold separately. All camp days run from 8:30am-3:30pm
Week 1, June 2-6: Nature & Art Camp
Week 2, June 9-13: Nature & Theater Camp
Week 3, June 16-20: Nature & Engineering Camp
Week 4, June 23-27: Nature & Science Camp
Week 5, July 7-11: Nature & Art Camp
Week 6, July 14-18: Nature & Theater Camp
Week 7, July 21-25: Nature & Engineering Camp
Week 8, July 28-August 1: Nature & Science Camp
Where is the camp located?
Locations for Wild Roots Summer Camps will be announced closer to the start date, but all locations will be within and around Fort Wayne, Indiana.
What age group is the camp for?
Wild Roots Summer Camps are designed for children ages 6-12. We are not able to accommodate other ages at this time, so please do not register your child if they are not within that age range.
How many children are in Wild Roots Summer Camps?
There will be a maximum of 30 children.
Is the camp day or overnight?
Wild Roots does not currently offer any overnight camps. Our daily schedule is 8:30am-3:30pm.
What is the staff-to-child ratio?
The staff to child ratio is 10:1.
Is there a specific curriculum or program used for the Summer Camps?
Please view the descriptions of each week of camp to read more information about the specific curriculum and activities. Generally speaking, Wild Roots is based in the Montessori philosophy and our programs integrate STEAM, the arts, and outdoor adventure.
Are there any discounts or financial aid options available?
We are a small business and we are not able to offer discounts at this time. However, we are accepting donations from any generous families who would like to donate a camp registration for a child in the community.
If you’d love for your child to participate in Wild Roots Summer Camps but it is not financially accessible for your family at this time, then please fill out our Scholarship Interest form HERE.
What is the deadline for registration?
Registration for Wild Roots Summer Camps is first come, first served, and spots are limited. We will keep registration open until camp begins, but keep in mind that it may sell out if you choose to wait.
Can my child attend for just one week?
Absolutely! Each week of camp requires separate registration, so you can register your child for all 8 weeks, 7 weeks, 6 weeks, or even just 1 week of camp.
What should I do if I need to cancel or change my child’s registration?
Please read our full refund policy for complete details. Here are the specifics of our policy:
Full Refund: A full refund will be issued if you cancel your registration at least 3 weeks prior to the start of your selected camp week.
No Refunds for Cancellations After 3 Weeks: No refunds will be granted for cancellations made within 3 weeks of the start of camp or for any reason, including illness, personal emergencies, or any other circumstances that prevent your child from attending.
To cancel your child's registration, please send an email to michal.miller@wildrootsnbl.com
What happens if my child gets sick or injured during camp?
In the event that your child is sick or injured during camp, we will notify you via phone. If the injury is minor and your child may remain at camp, we will simply notify you with a picture of the injury and text message. In the event that your child experiences a head injury, we will follow head injury safety protocols and monitor your child for a concussion. If you decide that you’d prefer to pick up your child from camp, that is completely your decision.
If your child has a fever of 100.4 or higher, your child is vomiting, or your child is experiencing serious symptoms due to an allergy we will call you immediately to notify you of the illness/symptoms. We will ask that you pick up your child to best care for their health needs and to also care for the health and safety of the other campers. If your child is experiencing a health emergency, we will call 911 first and then call you.
What is the camp’s policy on medication administration?
We will administer medication to your child with written consent from the child’s adult caregiver.
What types of activities are offered at the camp?
Each summer camp week is varied, please see the specific details for each camp to better understand the activities offered each week. In general, each day will be about exploring nature. Children will be invited to climb trees, play in the mud, explore natural spaces, unroll logs, build forts with fallen limbs, splash in puddles and creeks, and run and play in the natural environment.
Will my child need any special gear (e.g., hiking boots, water shoes, etc.)?
We will be outside at all times and in all weather! We like to say, “There’s no bad weather, just poor clothing.” However, if the weather is dangerous, we will find shelter in doors and adjust our activities for the day. Children should dress in weather appropriate clothing and gear. We will assume that you and your child are prepared for any and all clothing and gear to get dirty, muddy, ripped, and worn.
What should my child bring to camp?
Children should bring a water bottle, bug spray, sunscreen, and a packed lunch each day to camp. If your child needs any additional items, we will notify you in advance.
Should I pack lunch and snacks for my child?
We will provide one morning snack and one afternoon snack for our campers each day. Please do notify us of any food allergies that your child may have. Your child should come to camp with a packed lunch and water bottle each day. And, if your child has specific dietary restrictions that you’d prefer to manage, please do send your child with additional snacks for the morning and afternoon to ensure that your child has enough to eat throughout the day if they will not be eating our provided snack.
Can I contact my child during the camp day?
Please do not contact your child during the camp day. We fully honor and respect your need to monitor your child’s safety and your child may have a smart watch or phone to help care for your child’s safety. Please do not expect to be in contact with your child during the camp day unless it is an emergency. In the event that you need to contact your child during camp, please notify our staff as well that you have contacted your child.
How do you handle communication in case of an emergency?
In the event of an emergency that impacts every camper, we will notify all families via text message or phone call. We will also notify emergency personnel such as fire, police, or ambulance. If the emergency only impacts your child, we will call 911 and then immediately call you.
What is the camp’s policy on refunds or missed days?
Refund Eligibility
Full Refund: A full refund will be issued if you cancel your registration at least 3 weeks prior to the start of your selected camp week.
No Refunds for Cancellations After 3 Weeks: No refunds will be granted for cancellations made within 3 weeks of the start of camp or for any reason, including illness, personal emergencies, or any other circumstances that prevent your child from attending.
Non-Refundable Payment
Payment in full is required at the time of registration to secure enrollment in the camp. There is no deposit, and all payments are non-refundable, except for cancellations made in accordance with the full refund policy outlined above.
Camp Will Run Rain or Shine
Wild Roots operates in all weather conditions, including inclement weather. Camp sessions will not be canceled or rescheduled due to weather. No refunds will be provided for non-attendance due to weather or other related reasons.
Changes in Schedule or Program
Wild Roots will not alter the schedule or camp activities due to weather or other factors. Camp will proceed as planned, but rather adjusted indoors while seeking shelter. No refunds will be provided for changes made to the schedule or activities.