2025 Wildcat Mini-Camps

The perfect way to transition from school to summer is to participate with friends and RCDS teachers in Rye Country Day School’s Wildcat Mini-Camp.

Grades

Rising Kindergarten through Grade 8 Rye Country Day students, as well as incoming students, are invited to register.

Dates

Mini-Camp Week 1: Monday, June 9 - Friday, June 13, 2025

Mini-Camp Week 2: Monday, June 16 - Friday, June 20, 2025 (RCDS will be closed for Juneteenth)

Times

Mini-Camp runs each day from 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. There is an early bird option that begins at 8:30 a.m. available for an additional fee. Please note, the early bird option is available to dual full-time working parents, single full-time working parents, and faculty members.

Registration

Registration for Mini-Camps will be open from Saturday, March 29, 2025 through Monday, May 19, 2025.

Program Information

Registration

Online registration for 2025 Mini-Camps, including the Early Bird Program, will be available below from Saturday, March 29, 2025, until Monday, May 19, 2025. Registration must be complete and submitted by Monday, May 19, 2025. Enrollment for each camp is on a first submitted, first enrolled basis. Shortly after registering, you will receive an email confirming that your registration has been received.

Please note that specific camps do have maximum numbers. If a camp or the Early Bird Program cannot be offered because of insufficient enrollment, you will be notified as soon as possible, and your account will not be charged.

NEW FAMILIES: In order to participate in Wildcat Mini-Camps, you will need to complete a waiver form during the registration process.

Payment and Financial Aid

Payment

The fee is $325 per camp for Mini-Camp Week 1 and $260 per camp for Mini-Camp Week 2. In addition, there may be a $20 supply fee depending upon the nature of the camp. The Early Bird Program fee is $35 per week. Payment will be billed directly to your RCDS account. Please do not send payments by check, as all camp fees will be charged to your school account.

Financial Aid

A part of every current RCDS student’s financial aid grant includes one Wildcat Mini-Camp (1 week) OR one June Sports Camp (1 week) billed at the same percentage as your student’s financial aid grant for tuition. Families will not be billed at the time of registration. Additional camps will be billed at the full cost.

Medical Information

Parents/guardians should review the full RCDS Health and Safety policies, which include sections on travel, illness, and COVID exposure prior to the start of camp.

CURRENT FAMILIES: Please ensure that your child's medical information is up to date in Magnus before they begin camp. Our instructors will rely on the information available within Magnus for emergency contacts/allergy information/etc.

NEW FAMILIES: In order to participate in Wildcat Mini-Camps, you will need to complete all components of Magnus, Rye Country Day's online health management system. You will receive access to Magnus in May 2025. If you have any questions about accessing Magnus or have concerns about your ability to complete the required health forms before camp begins, please contact Patrice Brophy, School Nurse, at patrice_brophy@ryecountryday.org.

Cancellation, Withdrawal, and Absences

Cancellation

If a camp or the Early Bird Program cannot be offered because of insufficient enrollment, you will be notified as soon as possible, and your account will not be charged.

Withdrawal

If a camper withdraws from a registered Mini-Camp after Monday, June 2, 2025, no refund will be made.

Absence

If your child is unable to attend camp due to illness, please notify the School Nurse. If the absence is for personal reasons, please notify Mini-Camp Coordinator Nicole Leath.

Snack

Behavior

Contact Information

Mini-Camp Coordinator

Nicole Leath

CONTACT
Phone: 914-967-1417 ext. 4427

View/DOWNLOAD 2024 Brochure PDF

Week 1: June 10-14, 2024 - 2025 Coming Soon!

Sports and Games - Entering Grades K-2

Instructor: Jessica Zimmerman

Kick off your summer with a bang with a week jam-packed with sports and games! Led by Coach Zimmerman, each morning promises a lineup of cooperative activities that'll have you on your toes and laughing all day long. From the wacky twists of Wacky Baseball to the adrenaline-fueled excitement of Kickball, Relay Races, Ultimate Football, Capture the Flag, Gaga, and beyond, there's never a dull moment on the field! No matter your skill level or abilities, everyone is invited to join in on the action and get those muscles moving! All you need to bring is your positive energy and an enthusiastic attitude – we'll take care of the rest. So lace up your sneakers, and let's make this summer one to remember!

This camp is also offered in week 2.

Racquet Camp - Entering Grades K-2

Instructor: Elani Landman

Get ready for an epic adventure that'll have you bouncing, swinging, and smashing your way to victory! Our specially crafted racquet camp for young superstars is all about honing that hand-eye coordination while having the time of your life! Squash, Pickleball, Tennis, and Badminton all rolled into one camp of non-stop action! From rallying on the court to perfecting your serves, every moment is a chance to level up your skills and unleash your inner champ! No matter if you're a rookie or already a racquet pro, this camp is your ticket to a day bursting with excitement and camaraderie.

There is a $20 supply fee for this camp.

Read It! Paint It! - Entering Grades K-2

Instructor: Heather Lentini

Are you passionate about painting and enamored with the world of storytelling? If so, you're in for a treat with Read It! Paint It! Join us on a daily journey where we'll immerse ourselves in the wonders of literature and translate the magic of words into vibrant works of art. Each day brings a new tale to captivate our imaginations, and we'll channel the essence of the story through our creative endeavors. From delicate watercolors to bold tempera paint strokes, and even exploring the mediums of collage making, Dot Art, and cray-pas, there's no limit to the techniques and mediums we'll explore.

There is a $20 supply fee for this camp.

Island Adventures - Entering Grades K-2

Instructor: Coleen Quityne

Start the summer off with fun island adventures. Enjoy island stories, crafts, and games. Show off our dance moves at special island-themed dance parties, create your own tropical smoothie, and learn how to do the limbo. With lots of outdoor play, go on an island treasure hunt and enjoy water and sand play at our sensory table. Delight in lots of bubble action and hula-hooping with your friends.

There is a $20 supply fee for this camp. This camp is also offered in week 2.

Crafty Kids - Entering Grades K-2

Instructor: Monique Caterina

Calling all budding artists and craft enthusiasts! Get ready for an unforgettable week of creativity and fun in Crafty Kids! If you're ready to unleash your imagination, then this camp is tailor-made for you. Throughout the week, we'll embark on a colorful journey exploring various mediums like watercolor, Dot Art, and even glitter paint. But that's just the beginning! Brace yourself for an array of exciting activities, from crafting jewelry to decorating wooden objects with flair. But wait, there's more! Sculpting with Model Magic, designing mandalas, and engaging in lively outdoor games are just a few of the adventures waiting for us.

There is a $20 supply fee for this camp.

Drama Rama - Entering Grades K-2

Instructor: Amy Haff

Calling all Big Bad Wolves, Cinderellas, and Wicked Witches! Are you ready to step into the magical world of storytelling and bring your favorite tales to life? Each week at camp, we'll dive into the enchanting realms of our most beloved stories, unleashing our creativity and imagination like never before! Get ready to brainstorm with friends as we transform into our favorite characters, practicing our lines and perfecting our performances. But that's not all – we'll also roll up our sleeves and dive into hands-on fun, using paint and various crafts to craft stunning scenery and costumes fit for a fairy tale! Our unforgettable performances will be captured on film and sent home for the whole family to enjoy, ensuring that the magic lives on long after the curtains close.

There is a $20 supply fee for this camp.

Spy Camp - Entering Grades K-2

Instructors: Sandy Castagna and Karen Cosgrove

Attention, agents! Your covert mission awaits. Are you ready to embark on Spy Camp? Whether you're a seasoned spy or a newcomer to the world of espionage, your skills are needed now more than ever. Prepare to delve into a top-secret summer mystery that will put your detective abilities to the test. But first, you must reveal your identity and receive your official spy designation. Get ready to be fingerprinted, disguised, and outfitted with your very own spy badge. Only then will the true adventure begin! Prepare to accept this mission and uncover the secrets that await.

There is a $20 supply fee for this camp.

Sports and Games - Entering Grades 3-5

Instructors: Stefano Bicknese and Charlotte Flesichman

Kick off your summer with a bang at Sports and Games 3-5! Led by Mr. Bicknese and Ms. Fleischman, each morning promises a lineup of cooperative activities that'll have you on your toes and laughing all day long. From the wacky twists of Wacky Baseball to the adrenaline-fueled excitement of Kickball, Relay Races, Ultimate Football, Capture the Flag, Gaga, and beyond, there's never a dull moment on the field! No matter your skill level or abilities, everyone is invited to join in on the action and get those muscles moving! All you need to bring is your positive energy and an enthusiastic attitude – we'll take care of the rest. So lace up your sneakers, and let's make this summer one to remember!

In It to Win It! - Entering Grades 3-5

Instructors: Stacy Kaufman and Caryn Olson

Are you up for the ultimate summer camp? At In It To Win It, you won't have to choose between crafting up a storm indoors, tackling team-building challenges, or sprinting across the turf field in an epic game of Capture the Flag – because we're doing it all! Get ready for a dynamic blend of outdoor adventures and indoor excitement. Dive into hands-on arts and crafts, immerse yourself in interactive games, and unleash your competitive spirit with sports and team-building activities. Plus, every step of the way, you'll be working together, earning points for your team, and forging unforgettable memories with new friends.

There is a $20 supply fee for this camp.

Inventor's Workshop - Entering Grades 3-5

Instructor: Whitney Turner

Let's use lab resources and engineering principles to explore real-world problem-solving. Spend the week designing a prototype of a video game, LEGO Spike robot, CAD style 3D model, or a scratch build fabrication of an architecture design lit by an LED lighting sequence controlled by an internal microcomputer. Test your idea's structural strength using the TinkerCad gravity simulator. There will also be the opportunity to apply Minecraft Education Redstone coding to work together to solve Civil Engineering challenges. If you can think of it, we can build it.

There is a $20 supply fee for this camp.

Microbit Mayhem - Entering Grades 3-5

Instructor: Maximo Pérez

Unleash the power of the mighty Microbit, a tiny tech titan that can fit in the palm of your hand! Can you Imagine commanding a powerful miniature computer that can sense movement, light up to the sound of music, and even control robots and audio-animatronic characters? Dive into an adventure in circuitry and logic where your wildest ideas can come to life, crafting everything from secret message senders and receivers to virtual electronic pets to your own wireless multiplayer arcade games. You’ll be learning about the ins and outs of robotics technology (including a sneak peek of AI!) while developing your computer programming fundamentals. Whether you're a code wizard or just starting your magical journey, all you need to bring is your creativity - there’s a spellbinding challenge waiting for you. Strengthen those problem-solving, abstract reasoning, and computational thinking skills, campers! It is time to embark on an epic quest and change the ordinary into the extraordinary!

There is a $20 supply fee for this camp.

Let's Clay - Entering Grades 3-6

Instructor: Isadora Machado

Embark on a journey of creativity and discovery at our pottery camp! Delve into the art of pottery as you learn the pottery wheel techniques and the intricate process of hand-building with Clay and Model Magic. With a plethora of exciting projects at your fingertips, the possibilities are endless! From crafting whimsical ceramic monsters to sculpting bowls, mugs, cupcakes, animals, and even intricate buildings, you'll unleash your imagination and bring your wildest creations to life. Every masterpiece will be uniquely yours, reflecting your style and flair.

There is a $20 supply fee for this camp.

Summer Games - Entering Grades 6-8

Forensic Science- Entering Grades 6-8

Instructor: Melissa Knecht

Step into the intriguing world of crime scene investigation at our Forensic Science Mini Camp – a week-long adventure where budding detectives unravel mysteries and hone their investigative skills! Participants will immerse themselves in the art of forensic science, learning the essentials of crime scene analysis, fingerprinting, and evidence collection. The highlight of the week? Solving the mysterious case of the stolen cheese! Through hands-on activities, engaging experiments, and teamwork, students will follow the clues, analyze evidence, and piece together the puzzle to catch the cunning culprit. Our instructor will guide them through the fascinating realm of forensic science, fostering critical thinking and attention to detail. Join us for a week of thrilling investigations, friendship, and the satisfaction of cracking the case. Join us for an unforgettable adventure that combines learning with the excitement of solving a delicious whodunit!

There is a $20 supply fee for this camp.

Intro to Procreate Software and Digital Art - Entering Grades 6-8

Instructor: Jac-que Robinson

Discover the boundless creativity waiting at your fingertips with the software, Procreate! In this fun and hands-on camp, we will explore the fundamentals of Procreate, guiding you through its user-friendly interface and unleashing your artistic potential. As we progress, we will adapt to the camper's pace, exploring some of the intermediate digital art techniques that Procreate offers. By the end of the camp, you will walk away feeling confident that you, too, can create digital art in Procreate!

There is a $20 supply fee for this camp. This camp is also offered in week 2.

Week 2: June 17-21, 2024 - 2025 Coming Soon!

Sports and Games - Entering Grades K-2

Instructor: Jessica Zimmerman

This camp is also offered in week 1.

Wildcat Soccer Camp - Entering Grades K-2

Instructor: Stanley Morris

Are you looking to master the art of soccer, enhance your existing skills, or simply revel in the joy of the game? Then Wildcat Soccer is the camp for you! RCDS Coach Morris will offer an enriching experience for all participants. Players will develop a love for soccer and compete in a fun, nurturing environment while working on the fundamentals of the game, such as passing, receiving, shooting, and dribbling. All players must have cleats, shin guards, and a soccer ball, and be ready to have lots of fun!

Island Adventures - Entering Grades K-2

Instructor: Coleen Quityne

There is a $20 supply fee for this camp. This camp is also offered in week 1.

Camp Friendship - Entering Grades K-2

Instructor: Charlotte Fleischman

Spread kindness and joy through Camp Friendship. Have fun socializing with friends as you create heartfelt crafts, weave colorful friendship bracelets, plant flowers for a favorite person, and design a photo frame for a memorable photo. Fun cooperative games and collaborative play-based activities will fill our day. Join us at Camp Friendship and let the fun begin!

There is a $20 supply fee for this camp.

Camp Wildcubs - Entering Grades K-3

Instructors: Sandy Castagna and Amy Haff

Get ready to kick off your summer with Camp Wildcubs! Join Mrs. Castagna and Ms. Haff for a week packed with fun activities, arts, and games! At Camp Wildcubs, the fun never ends! From unleashing your creativity with awesome crafts to engaging in epic games both indoors and under the open sky, every moment is an opportunity to create unforgettable memories with your RCDS friends. So pack your sense of fun and get ready to have fun with us! Go Wildcubs!

There is a $20 supply fee for this camp.

Coding, Engineering, and Design - Entering Grades 2-5

Instructor: Whitney Turner

This summer, immerse yourself in computer science at Coding, Engineering, and Design. Let your imagination run wild as you unlock the creative, interactive possibilities of robotics, Scratch 3.0 coding, & Photoshop imagery. Explore the world of coding while designing digital games with Scratch; build a 3D world using Minecraft; and make comics, digital music, and video using animation techniques and editing software. Come learn, create, collaborate, problem-solve, and have fun with technology this summer!

There is a $20 supply fee for this camp.

Flag Football - Entering Grades 3-5

Instructor: Stefano Bicknese

Get ready to tackle the excitement of flag football at camp! You will not only learn the ins and outs of the game but also have a blast with your friends every step of the way. From mastering the rules to honing your skills through engaging drills, our expert coaches will guide you through it all. And the best part? Putting your newfound skills to the test in action-packed flag football games that'll have you cheering for more! Don't miss out on the fun – let's hit the field together!

Wildcat Soccer Camp - Entering Grades 3-5

Instructor: Alin Andrei

Would you like to learn the game of soccer, improve your current soccer skills, or just have fun? Then Wildcat Soccer is the camp for you! Qualified and experienced RCDS Coach Andrei will be your instructor. This is a soccer program to help the children develop a love for soccer and compete in a fun, nurturing environment. Players will work on the fundamentals of the game, such as passing, receiving, shooting, dribbling, and heading. All players must have cleats, shin guards, and a soccer ball, and be ready to have lots of fun!

Racquet Camp - Entering Grades 3-5

Instructor: Elani Landman

There is a $20 supply fee for this camp.

Summer Art Camp - Entering Grades 3-5

Instructor: Lauren Behar

Summer fun with an artistic twist! This camp is all about making your favorite summer arts and crafts. Spend your day exploring different art activities, from making friendship bracelets to tie-dying. Some projects include giant bubble wands, tape art murals, large-scale weavings, and more! What will you make?

There is a $20 supply fee for this camp.

Broadway Bound Wildcats - Entering Grades 3-5

Instructor: Susan Owen

Are you a rising star with dreams of gracing the Broadway stage? Do you love belting out the latest Taylor Swift hits in the car? Then look no further than Broadway Bound Wildcats! Performers will dive into the world of musical theater, belting out Broadway classics, Disney favorites, and chart-topping pop hits. Under the guidance of Broadway actress Susan Owen, participants explore improvisation and acting, honing their skills in a supportive and nurturing environment. Cultivate confidence and teamwork skills as you learn to collaborate with fellow performers. But most importantly, have fun!

There is a $20 supply fee for this camp.

Let's Clay - Entering Grades 5-8

Instructor: Isadora Machado

There is a $20 supply fee for this camp. This camp is also offered to week 2 to campers entering grade 6.

Rube Goldberg Engineering Challenge - Entering Grades 5-8

Instructor: Maximo Pérez

Dive into the whimsical world of Rube Goldberg machines and “Marble Run” devices, where the goal is to tackle simple tasks with marvelously intricate contraptions. It's all about the thrill of the domino effect, with a twist of engineering savvy to keep the momentum alive. Gather around campers for a hands-on adventure in creativity and teamwork. Armed with a trove of treasures like Legos, Hot Wheels tracks, mousetraps, trampolines, paper clips, and pulleys, we will be setting our sights on something epic! Can we keep the chain reaction going? Join forces, let the ideas flow, and let's craft the most jaw-dropping contraption the world has ever seen!

There is a $20 supply fee for this camp.

All Things Sports - Entering Grades 6-8

Instructor: Ian Coupe

Spend the week outside playing a wide range of sports and games! We'll spend time playing touch football, Capture the Flag, Whiffle ball, soccer, and more. During breaks between our outdoor fun, we'll head indoors for some engaging sports trivia games. Test your knowledge, challenge your friends, and discover fascinating facts about your favorite sports. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or just looking to have a blast with friends, All Things Sports offers something for everyone.

There is a $20 supply fee for this camp.

Intro to Procreate Software and Digital Art - Entering Grades 6-8

Instructor: Jac-que Robinson

There is a $20 supply fee for this camp. This camp is also offered in week 1.