General Information and Camp Handbook

The AGO Art Camp is an artful studio experience and a fun-filled day camp—all rolled into one! Our all-day art programs let campers age five to 13 express and explore their creativity in a fully equipped studio environment. For the summer of 2024, we’re thrilled to announce our two-week Leaders-in-Training (LIT) program for campers aged 14-15.

Please take the time to read through this important camp information. In it, you will find everything you need to know for a fun and safe summer at the AGO.

Welcome back to our returning campers, and for those who are joining us for the first time, this will be an awesome summer to remember!

Register for AGO Summer Camps

Camp Handbook

Before July 2 and after August 30, call our Contact Centre:

416-979-6608, [email protected]

During the camp season call the Camp Office:

416-979-6660 x 6368, [email protected]

How to Register

All camp registrations are processed through the AGO CampBrain site.
Click here OR on the “Register Now” button on any camp webpage to sign up for Camp!

Please note: All camp waivers and forms, including camper medical information, must be completed in CampBrain before you are able to complete registration.

Incomplete or inaccurate information may result in the camper’s removal from camps.If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the AGO Contact Centre at 416-979-6608 or [email protected]

Age Policy
AGO Art Camp is for campers ages 5-13, and our Leadership-in-Training program is for campers ages 14-15.
**Campers must be the correct age for their registered camp on the start date of that camp. Proof of age may be required, before or during camp sessions.

Waitlist
AGO Art Camps are in high demand! If your camp is full at the time of registration you will have the option to join the waitlist online. If a spot becomes available for your waitlisted camp, you will receive an email and you must respond and confirm your spot within 24 hours. Once you have sent confirmation, we will officially enroll you in the camp and you must complete the registration and payment through the AGO's CampBrain portal.

Due to the popularity of AGO Summer Camps, the spot will move to the next person on the waitlist if we do not hear from you within 24 hours of contacting you. Please note, you will only be contacted if there is an available spot.

Daily Camp Schedule

Monday - Thursday

8:00 – 8:30 am, Pre-Care Drop-Off for campers registered in Extended Care, at group entrance on Dundas Street West (west end of the building).

8:30 – 9:00 am, All Camper Drop-Off at at group entrance on Dundas Street West (west end of the building).

9:00 – 10:00 am, Morning Recreation Period – Campers participate in activities with their Counsellors.

10:00 am - 12:00 pm, Morning Studio Time – Artmaking with the Instructors.

12:00-1:00 pm, Lunch – All groups have lunch in Grange Park together (weather permitting). After eating, campers play games outside, read or relax.

1:00-3:00 pm, Afternoon Studio Time - Artmaking with the Instructors.

3:00 – 3:50 pm, Afternoon Recreation Period– Campers participate in activities with their Counsellors.

3:50 pm, All groups return to the Education Commons area in the Weston Family Learning Centre for Pick-Up.

4:00 pm sharp, Camper Pick-Up downstairs in the Education Commons in the Weston Family Learning Centre – Don’t forget your photo ID!

4:00 – 5:30 pm, After-Care Pick-Up downstairs in the Hands-On Centre in the Weston Family Learning Centre – Don’t forget your photo ID!

Friday Exhibition

On the final Friday afternoon of each session, campers put on an awesome exhibition of their artwork! Parents, caregivers, friends and family are invited to the AGO from 3:30 to 4 pm to see the display. Head downstairs to the Weston Family Learning Centre and follow the signs to your camper’s group location. Please make sure to bring a box or bag so you can easily carry home your child’s art.

Location and How To Get Here

The AGO Art Camp is located at the Art Gallery of Ontario in the Weston Family Learning Centre at 317 Dundas Street West.

View for more info on how to get to the AGO.

Drop-Off / Pick-Up

NEW THIS YEAR: Drop-Off and Pick-Up are both accessed via Dundas Street West.

MORNING DROP-OFF

8 am - Only campers registered for Extended Care (register early, extended care spaces are limited).

8:30-9 am - All campers.

LOCATION: Group Entrance doors, 317 Dundas Street West. WEST end of building. Look for the AGO staff for daily morning sign-in.

NO PARKING: Please note temporary stopping or parking on the south side of Dundas Street West from 7:30am-9:30am is considered a parking violation and you may be ticketed. We encourage you to use nearby street or lot parking or arrive via TTC, or other means of transportation.

All campers are required to sign in with Camp Staff for attendance purposes. Please ensure your camper has been officially signed in before leaving. All campers ages 11 and up that are arriving independently need to sign themselves in with the camp staff upon arrival.

LATE DROP-OFF

If you arrive after 9am and do not see AGO Camp staff at the Group Entrance on Dundas Street West, please enter through the main entrance on Dundas Street West and go to the Camp Office located downstairs on the concourse level, across from the washrooms. Ask the information desk staff for assistance/directions if needed.

AFTERNOON PICK-UP

4 pm - Pick-Up for all campers.

4-5:30 pm - Only campers registered for extended care (register early, extended care spaces are limited).

LOCATION: Group Entrance doors, 317 Dundas Street West. WEST end of building. Adults authorized for pick up must enter the AGO and pick up campers down in the Weston Family Learning Centre via stairs or elevator. The only exception is campers authorized to sign out and leave on their own at 4pm (option for campers aged 11 and up).

Mondays - enter using the main entrance doors on Dundas Street West.

Tuesday to Friday - enter using the main entrance, or group entrance, on Dundas Street West.

At the end of the day, parents/guardians are required to sign out their campers with Camp Staff for attendance purposes. The camp day ends at 4pm. If your child is allowed to leave on their own, please remind them that they still need to follow this procedure and they can only sign themselves out at 4pm. If you are picking up your child, please do not leave without ensuring that they have been fully signed out with the camp staff.

*BRING VALID PHOTO ID: Campers will only be released to a designated Parent/Guardian, or other authorized adult, as specified at registration. All authorized pick-up persons must show valid, government-issued photo ID (i.e., drivers license, health card, passport, etc.) everyday, without exception. This is for the safety of all our campers.

TEMPORARY STOPPING FOR PICK UP ONLY: Please note, between 4-5:30pm only, you can display the AGO temporary stopping placard in your vehicle and temporarily stop on the south side of Dundas St W in these locations for 5-10 minutes max.

Preferred Location: South side of Dundas Street West (from the center to east end of the building) - marked as AGO Passenger and Bus Loading Zone.
Alternate Location: South side of Dundas Street West (towards the west end of the building) - marked as AGO No Standing Zone.

You will receive your AGO Parking Placard via email before the start of camp. We also have them available on the first day of camp during check-in.

LATE PICK-UP

A late fee of $25 will be charged for campers who are picked up at 4:20 pm or later and not enrolled in Extended Care.

A late fee of $25 will be charged for campers who are picked up at 5:35 pm or later.

Extended Care

Extended Care is a pre-registered paid camp option that includes Pre-Care and After-Care.
Please call 416 979 6608 to inquire or register. Space is limited.

Pre-Care Morning Drop-Off 8-8:30 am. Group entrance located on Dundas Street West (west end of the building).

After-Care Afternoon Pick-Up 4-5:30 pm. Group entrance located on Dundas Street West (west end of the building). Go downstairs and pick-up from directly from the Hands-On Centre.

*LATE FEES: A late fee of $25 will be charged for campers who are picked up 5:35 pm and later.

View Extended Care Fees

Lunch

All campers need to bring a daily packed lunch, including snacks and drinks.

Campers will have access to tap water for their reusable bottles throughout the day.

All food items must be PEANUT/NUT/SESAME FREE.

We do not supply food to campers. Campers do not share food.

**While we cannot guarantee a nut/sesame-free camp, as we share public spaces, we make every effort to provide the safest possible environment for all our campers. Some of our campers have life threatening food allergies. Please assist us by ensuring your child’s lunch is entirely peanut/nut/sesame-free and that campers do not bring food to share with others. Lunch checks are conducted daily by the counsellors or senior camp staff. If the main portion of the lunch is removed, a parent/guardian will be contacted to provide an alternative. Please advise our staff if you are sending a nut alternative (e.g. Sun Butter, Wow Butter). Please note: Sesame can be found in many food items such as packaged seaweed snacks, breads, buns, sushi, and hummus.

There are no refrigerators or microwaves available for campers and campers are not allowed to go off-site to purchase lunch. If you wish to take your child out for lunch, special arrangements must be made in advance by contacting the Camp Office 416-979-6660 x 6368, [email protected].

Special Days

Thursday Theme Days

Every Thursday campers participate in theme day with camp-wide artmaking and activities for all age groups. Details about specific theme days will be included in your first day of camp newsletter provided at check-in. Past themes have included Pajama Party, Space, and Winter in July. Dress up and join the fun!

Friday Exhibition

On the final Friday afternoon of each session, campers put on an awesome exhibition of their artwork! Parents, caregivers, friends and family are invited to the AGO from 3:30 to 4 pm to see the display. Head downstairs to the Weston Family Learning Centre and follow the signs to your campers group location. Please make sure to bring a box or bag so you can easily carry home your child’s art.

What To Bring and Wear

1. A PEANUT/NUT/SESAME FREE lunch and snacks. While we cannot guarantee a nut-free camp, as we share public spaces on a daily basis, we make every effort to provide the safest possible environment for all our campers. Please assist us by ensuring your child’s lunch and snacks are entirely peanut/nut/sesame-free and that campers do not bring food to share with others.

2. HAT & SUNSCREEN. Sunscreen should be applied in the morning before camp. Please send additional sunscreen and our camp staff will remind campers to reapply before going outside. Please note the camp does not provide sunscreen for campers, nor can staff physically assist in application of sunscreen (with the exception of our youngest campers or campers who identify during the registration process as needing additional support).

3. WATER in a refillable water bottle – labeled with the camper's name.

4. WEATHER & ACTIVITY APPROPRIATE CLOTHES. Please send your camper with clothing that is weather appropriate for that day (ie. cool and rainy, hot and sunny etc...) and note that even on very hot days you can expect it to be cool indoors in the studio and in the galleries. Please wear clothing that can get dirty while making art (keep your fanciest and favourite clothes at home). Packing layers or sending a light change of clothing for younger campers is always helpful.

5. CLOSED-TOE SHOES for the art studio. Please do not send campers in open-toe shoes like flip flops or crocs as they are not safe in the studio environment.

**We are not responsible for any lost, stolen or missing items and we strongly recommend your child not bring valuables to camp including items such as cell phones, money, electronic games, personal listening devices, or toys.

Cell Phone & Electronics Policy

We encourage you and your camper/s to think of camp as a time to unplug from electronic devices. We are not responsible for loss or damage to any phones, electronic devices or any other valuables brought to camp. If we see these devices at camp, we will ask campers to put them away. Campers carrying cell phones to connect with parents after camp will be expected to keep the phone off and in their bag or backpack during the day. Campers will not be allowed to use these items during camp, unless with staff permission. If you need to get a message to your child while they are at camp, please call the camp office at 416 979 6660 ext. 6368 and we will be happy to relay the message.

Lost & Found

Lost & Found is located in the camp office. At the end of each session, unclaimed items are tagged and handed over to the main AGO lost and found, located at the Coat Check in the Main Entrance lobby. Any campers from previous sessions that are looking for lost items should call the AGO main line to inquire 416-979-6648.

Health & Safety

Medical Information

Medical information is completed online at the time of registration. Any medical information received will be kept confidential, pertinent information shared only with camp staff to provide the greatest level of comfort and security for all campers. Parents/caregivers may be contacted by camp staff if clarification is required; the more information we have, the better we are able to meet a camper’s needs.

If your campers medical information changes closer to the start of camp, please contact us to provide an update.
Before July 4 and after September 1, call our Contact Centre: 416-979-6608, [email protected]
During the camp season call the Camp Office:416-979-6660 x 6368, [email protected]

Medication

All medication taken while at camp must be indicated on medical forms, stored in the camp office (except for EpiPens and inhalers) and self-administered by campers under AGO staff supervision. Camp staff DOES NOT administer any medication to campers. If campers cannot self-administer you must make arrangements to drop by at lunch or an appropriate time to administer medication. Please connect with the camp staff during the first day check-in to hand over any required medications to be stored in the camp office.

EpiPens

If your child requires an EpiPen while at camp, you must indicate this in the Medical Form completed during registration. We require that all EpiPens be carried on the campers body at all times, in either a fanny-pack or other small bag. A backpack is not adequate as it cannot be taken everywhere within the gallery. Please remind the AGO staff at first day check in of all pertinent information. In the event of an allergic reaction, standard emergency procedures will apply and 911 will be contacted. Protection Services Officers, Counsellors and core Camp Staff are First Aid certified. Campers who arrive without their EpiPen will be unable to participate in camp activities and Parents/caregivers will be asked to immediately pick-up their child or drop-off their EpiPen.

Injuries & Sick Campers

All AGO Camp Counsellors and core staff are trained and certified in first responder first aid. The Protection Services Department is also called upon to deal with all first aid and emergency issues beyond simple cuts and scrapes. If your child is sick at camp, we will do everything we can to attend to them and they will be supervised in our office/first aid room. While at camp, campers should be well enough to participate in all regular active camp programming. If your child has a fever, rash, has vomited or has diarrhea, you will be contacted to pick up your camper. Please do not send campers to camp if they have, or may have, any of the following: COVID-19, Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis), Strep Throat, Chicken Pox (Varicella), Lice, Fifth Disease (Erythema Infectiosum), or Hand-Foot and Mouth Disease. Campers suspected to have any of the above will be asked to be picked up. To prevent the spread of viruses, hand washing will be mandatory before and after studio and lunch time. Campers with lice and/or nits can attend camp 24 hours after treatment. If you have any questions, please consult your healthcare provider or call Telehealth Ontario TTY: 1-866-797-0007.

COVID -19 PROTOCOL

The AGO is following all COVID-19 guidelines as outlined by the municipal and provincial health units. Campers, parents/guardians should be aware of these guidelines and understand that the AGO reserves the right to change our COVID-19 health and safety guidelines as needed.

Parents/Guardians are encouraged to pre-screen their children daily prior to arrival at the AGO using the Ministry of Health COVID-19 screening tool. Campers who do not pass the screening process should not attend camp. Please follow the isolation guidelines and other requirements before returning to camp.

Campers are strongly encouraged to wear masks, although they are not required.

Please make note of any documented pre-existing conditions you/your child may have that display similar symptoms to COVID-19 and share during the registration process or by calling the AGO Contact Centre at 416-979-6608. Additional precautions may need to be applied in order to accommodate.

Supervision & Group Size

Our staff bring a combination of art expertise and extensive experience working with children to create a safe, active, and fun environment at AGO Art Camp. All camp staff have Vulnerable Sector Screening Checks and all counsellors, senior camp staff, and AGO Protection Service Officers are First Aid CPR-C and AED Certification.

Maximum group size based on age:

10 camper maximum for 5 year olds
12 camper maximum for ages 6-7
15 camper maximum for ages 8-13.
18 camper maximum for ages 14-18.

Our staff to camper ratios are as follows:

1:6 For 5 year olds
1:8 For campers age 6-7
1:10 For campers age 8-13
Leaders-In-Training, campers ages 14-15 must be comfortable travelling independently inside the AGO

For a successful camp experience, all campers attending AGO Art Camp should be comfortable with this level of supervision.

One-to-One Support

At this time, AGO Art Camp does not provide one-to-one support staff for campers. We welcome campers who will be attending with a support person; please note this during the registration process. If you have questions about sending your child to camp with a one-to-one support worker, or questions about the level of support we can provide, please contact us for more information:
Before July 2 and after August 30 via our Contact Centre: 416-979-6608, [email protected]
During the camp season contact the Camp Office: 416-979-6660 x 6368, [email protected]

Accessibility

The AGO is committed to providing a welcoming and accessible destination. We embrace the principles of dignity, independence, integration and equal opportunity to serve our campers, visitors, staff and volunteers, and our community at large. Read more about our Commitment to Accessibility.

One-to-One Support

Policies

Financial / Registration Policies

Payment is due in full at time of registration.
Customers who withdraw more than 4 weeks prior to the start date of the camp program will be issued a full refund, minus a $30 administration fee.
Customers who withdraw less than 4 weeks, and more than 2 weeks prior to the start date of the camp program are eligible for a 50% refund minus a $30 administration fee.
Customers who withdraw less than 2 weeks prior to the start date of your child’s camp program, or after the start of the camp program are not eligible for a refund.
The above policy also applies to extended care purchases.
Withdrawal requests for significant medical reasons require a doctor’s note and are considered on a case by case basis.
Absence does not constitute a withdrawal.
Transfer requests will be considered up to 5 business days prior to the start of a camp program and are subject to a $30 administration fee.
Withdrawal and transfer requests must be done by telephone through the Contact Centre at 416-979-6608.
A late fee of $25 will be charged for campers who not enrolled in Extended Care and are picked up at 4:20 pm and later.
A late fee of $25 will be charged for campers who are picked up late from Extended Care, 5:35 pm and later.

Age Policy

AGO Art Camp is for campers ages 5-13. Our Leadership-in Training program is for campers ages 14-15. Campers must be the correct age for their registered camp on the start date of that camp. Proof of age may be required, before or during camp sessions.

Cell Phone & Electronics Policy

Code of Conduct

The AGO Art Camp is committed to creating a safe, inclusive and fun learning environment where our camp community, including all campers, families/caregivers, staff and volunteers are given equal opportunity to engage in a positive and welcoming experience in all facets of arts and culture. We aim to create a respectful camp community that is mindful of the rights, needs, and interests of all its members, creating an atmosphere that is inclusive, and physically and emotionally safe. With this commitment, the following Code of Conduct is expected of all members of our camp community at all times during all AGO Summer Art Camp programming.

All AGO Art Camp community members shall:

Display respect for the rights, property and safety of themselves, others, and the AGO, with a reasonable standard of care and mindfulness.
Participate in creating a positive display of inclusion and respect of all persons in speech, action and behaviour, absent of violence, harassment, racism, intimidation, and discrimination of any kind regardless of and not limited to gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, culture, age, ability etc.

Failure to comply with the Code of Conduct may result in removal from AGO Art Camp without refund.

Camper Behaviour Policy

The AGO strives to create an environment that is safe and fun for all of its members. We expect all campers to behave appropriately and respectfully. The staff and volunteers aim to treat every camper in a manner that encourages inclusivity and self-expression. Should an incident arise, the camp staff reserve the right to take appropriate actions including removal from camp for a partial day, full day, or permanent removal from the program without refund. The AGO policy is as follows:

Minor Incidents: In the case of minor incidents the camper will be addressed at the time of the incident by their counsellor.

Moderate Incidents: In the case of moderate incidents, like repeatedly refusing to cooperate with camp staff or other campers, or deliberately disruptive behaviour, the camper may be removed from the group and they will discuss the incident with a member of the senior staff team. The parent/guardian will be contacted and informed of the incident. The camper may be removed from camp for a partial or full day depending on the severity of the incident.

Serious Incidents: In the case of serious incidents, like inappropriate physical behaviour, theft, verbal/physical abuse, bullying, or jeopardizing the safety of other campers, the camper will discuss their behaviour with the Lead Counsellors and/or the Camp Director. The parent/guardian will be contacted and informed of the incident immediately. The camper may be permanently removed from the program without refund.

Alcohol, Tobacco & Drug Policy

The Art Gallery of Ontario Summer Art Camp is committed to creating a safe camp environment that promotes positive health and wellness for our staff, volunteers, campers and their families/caregivers. As a result, the use of alcohol, tobacco and other non-prescription drugs is prohibited in the camp environment and may result in the permanent removal from the camp without refund.

Ontario Camp Association

As an OCA accredited camp, the AGO Art Camp continuously meets industry standards with the utmost safety and care of campers, staff, parents, and guardians in mind. The OCA has more than 600 Standards that are based on research, regulation, and best practices. The OCA Standards are designed to ensure that OCA Accredited Camps deliver a program and experience that is safe, fun, and of a high quality.

Expand All

Camps FAQs

How do I get in touch with the Camp Office?

Before July 2 and after August 30, call our Contact Centre:

416-979-6608, [email protected]

During the camp season call the Camp Office:

416-979-6660 x 6368, [email protected]

How do I get to the camp office?

The camp office is located on the Concourse level of the AGO, in the Weston Family Learning Centre. You can access it via the front entrance at 371 Dundas St W. Once you enter the front doors, head to the right, past the coat check, and down to the Concourse level via the stairs or elevator. The camp office is located directly across from the washrooms.

When does registration open?

Registration opens January 30 for AGO Members and February 1 for Public and Annual Pass holders. Members have early access to registration and receive a discount on Camps and Courses at the AGO. Not a Member? Join today.

Browse our 2024 camp offerings.

What is the cancellation policy?

Customers who withdraw more than 4 weeks prior to the start date of the camp program will be issued a full refund, minus a $30 administration fee.
Customers who withdraw less than 4 weeks, and more than 2 weeks prior to the start date of the camp program are eligible for a 50% refund minus a $30 administration fee.
Customers who withdraw less than 2 weeks prior to the start date of your child’s camp program, or after the start of the camp program are not eligible for a refund.
The above policy also applies to extended care purchases.
Withdrawal requests for significant medical reasons require a doctor’s note and are considered on a case-by-case basis.
Absence does not constitute a withdrawal.

Withdrawal and transfer requests must be done by telephone through the Contact Centre at 416-979-6608. See our full list of policies.

Can I change my existing registration?

Transfer requests will be considered up to five (5) business days prior to the start of a camp program and are subject to a $30 administration fee. Withdrawal and transfer requests must be done by telephone through the Contact Centre at 416-979-6608. See our full list of policies.

What is your allergy policy?

Campers need to bring a daily packed lunch, including snacks and drinks. All food brought to camp must be peanut, nut and sesame-free. We do not share food between campers and we do not supply food to campers.

While we cannot guarantee a peanut, nut, and sesame-free camp, as we share public spaces, we make every effort to provide the safest possible environment for all our campers. Many of our campers have life-threatening food allergies, therefore lunch checks are conducted daily. If campers bring food with peanuts, nuts, or sesame, the camp staff will remove the food items and return them at the end of the day. If the main portion of the lunch is removed, a parent or guardian will be contacted to provide an alternative. Please advise our staff if you are sending a nut alternative (e.g., Sun Butter, Wow Butter). Please note: Sesame can be found in many food items, such as packaged seaweed snacks, breads, buns, sushi, and hummus. View our full Health and Safety policies.

How often will the camp go into the gallery?

Every camp will go into the gallery multiple times per week to explore and engage with the artwork in our collections and special exhibitions. Visits take place with Artist Instructors and/or Counsellors to gain inspiration for artmaking and games.

How often will the camp go outside? Where do they play outside?

Weather permitting, campers are outside in Grange Park for lunch every day and on most days, they are outside for at least one of the morning or afternoon recreation times.

Grange Park is a beautiful two-hectare green space in downtown Toronto located directly behind the AGO.

What do I do if my camper is absent from camp today?

Please email or call the camp office and let us know by calling 416-979-6660 x 6368 or emailing us at [email protected]

How can I get updates about my child’s experience at camp today?

You can always call the camp office at 416-979-6660 x 6368 or email us at [email protected] for information about your campers experience at the AGO.

When can I see my campers art?

On the final Friday afternoon of each session, campers put on an awesome exhibition of their artwork! Parents, caregivers, friends, and family are invited to the AGO from 3:30 to 4 pm to see the display. Head downstairs, to the Weston Family Learning Centre, and follow the signs to your camper’s group location. Please make sure to bring a box or bag so you can easily carry your child’s art home.

I am on the waitlist for a camp. When/how will I know that spots open?

You will be emailed if a spot becomes available for your waitlisted camp. You must respond and confirm your spot within 24 hours. Once you have sent confirmation, we will officially enroll you in the camp and you must complete the registration and payment through the AGO's CampBrain portal. Due to the popularity of AGO Summer Camps, the spot will move to the next person on the wait-list if we do not hear from you within 24 hours of contacting you. Please note: you will only be contacted if there is an available spot.

If there is a spot available in your waitlisted camp within one (1) week prior to the start date, the waitlist may shift to a first come, first served format. The full waitlist will be emailed and the first to respond will be registered in the available spot.

Can my camper be in the same group as their friend/sibling?

Groups are confirmed at the time of registration. If you would like your camper to attend with a specific child, you’ll need to enroll them for the same camp in the same session at the time of registration (e.g., both campers enroll in Miniature Worlds in Session 1A). Both campers need to be in the same age range (ages 5, 6-7, 8-10, 11-13, 14-15), and there must be space available for both campers to register for them to be able to attend together. If they are not able to enroll in the same group, please know that there are many times throughout the day where children play together from different camp groups, including lunch, every day.

Do you have any discounts?

Members always save on Camps and Courses at the AGO; they also have an early registration period before the general public. Not a Member? Join today.

My camper will almost be 5 years old at the start of camp. Can I register them?

AGO Art Camp is only for campers ages 5-13. Our Leadership-in-Training program is only for campers ages 14-15. Campers must be the correct age for their registered camp on the start date of that camp. Proof of age may be required, before or during camp sessions.

What happens if my child feels unwell or is injured at camp?

All AGO Camp Counsellors and core staff are trained and certified in first responder first aid. The Protection Services Department is also first aid trained and called upon to deal with all first aid and emergency issues beyond simple cuts and scrapes. If your child is sick at camp, we will do everything we can to attend to them and they will be supervised in our office/first aid room. While at camp, campers should be well enough to participate in all regular active camp programming. If they are unwell, you will be contacted to pick up your camper. Please see our full Health & Safety policy.

I am dropping my camper off late today/picking them up early. Where do I go?

The camp office is where all late drop-offs (after 9 am) and early pick-ups (before 4 pm) take place. It’s always helpful to email or call the camp office and let us know you will be arriving late or picking up a camper early. 416-979-6660 x 6368, [email protected]

What do I do if I want someone to pick up my camper who is not on the authorized pick-up list?

Call or email the camp office and let us know (416-979-6660 x 6368, [email protected]). Please tell the person picking up your child that they need to bring and present government-issued photo ID.

What will my camper do if you are unable to go outside during inclement weather?

During inclement weather days (e.g., poor air quality, heat waves, rain, etc.), campers will have lunch and participate in active and engaging indoor activities in the Weston Family Learning Centre as well as visiting the gallery.

What is the difference between the Leaders-in-Training (LIT) program and your Camp Volunteers?

The Leaders-in-Training (LIT) program is a unique opportunity to develop leadership skills within a camp environment—all while surrounded by the extraordinary art and resources the AGO offers. This two-week program builds confidence while encouraging you as you learn personal and professional skills. In week one, you’ll participate in 5 days of training with experienced AGO staff, covering topics such as teamwork, conflict resolution, diversity, equity and inclusion, problem solving and self-care. In week two, you'll get hands-on experience during placements in our camps, engaging with and supporting campers and learning from our Art Instructors and Camp Counsellors. Participants will also have the chance to make their own art during the session. The LIT program is a great way to start building your resume and learn how to meet responsibilities in a supportive and creative environment.

The LIT program will have two (2) cohorts offered in summer 2024 (July 22 – Aug 2 and Aug 6 – 16). This program has an associated fee and is not a volunteer program.

The AGO Art Camp also has a volunteer opportunity for students 15 years of age or older. We recruit over 150 youth volunteers each summer for our art camp. Camp volunteers are the “best friends” of camp. Your role is to support the Counsellors and Art Instructors during recreation and artmaking times as well as playing games and eating lunch with your group. Volunteers must be available for a full, two-week placement at camp (approx. 70 hours). Volunteer applicants will be invited to attend recruitment sessions at the AGO in early June (evening and weekend sessions) to meet camp staff, hear more about the program, and to ensure it is the right fit for you. All volunteers must attend a one day training session in the last week of June. All volunteer hours can be used towards your high school community involvement requirement.

Do you have non-gendered washrooms?

At the AGO, some washrooms are labelled by what you’ll find inside them: toilets, urinals, or wheelchair –accessible stalls. Others are single occupancy or gender-specific. Campers are offered all options and are welcome to use the washroom they are most comfortable with.

Who are the Artist Instructors and Counsellors that lead the campers?

The Artist Instructors are local practicing artists and educators with extensive experience working with children and teaching artmaking in a studio environment. Our Instructors work year-round, teaching studio-based courses at the AGO for children, youth, and families, and they bring their knowledge of artmaking techniques, art history, and the AGO collection into every project they teach. They work with campers for the morning and afternoon artmaking session each day of camp. All Artist Instructors hold a Bachelor of Fine Arts and many hold graduate degrees in Fine Arts and Teaching.

Our Counsellors are typically university students that are hired for the summer months. They have experience working with children as well as a passion for camp and recreation-based programming. Many of our counsellors are pursuing education in the arts (e.g., fine art, drama, film, animation), social work, and education. Counsellors receive rigorous pre-camp training in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Neurodiversity, Allergies, and epi-pen use, as well as age-appropriate recreational programs and understanding child development and behaviour. All Counsellors have their Standard First Aid CPR-C & AED certificate. Our Counsellors are with the campers throughout the entire day.