New Country Day Camp
- Manhattan
14th Street Y of the Educational Alliance, 344 E. 14th St, New York , NY
See Map | Get Directions - www.14streety.org
Categories
Description
Ages 5 - 11
General description:
Located less than 45 minutes from most of our bus pickup points, the 14th Street Y's New Country Day Camp sets your child down in the middle of New York's natural beauty. Swimming pools, hiking trails, and open meadows are the setting for this camp at Staten Island's 75-acre Henry Kaufman Campground.
Located less than 45 minutes from most of our bus pickup points, the 14th Street Y's New Country Day Camp sets your child down in the middle of New York's natural beauty. Swimming pools, hiking trails, and open meadows are the setting for this camp at Staten Island's 75-acre Henry Kaufman Campground.
Healthy outdoor experiences are at the heart of the camp, underpinning a curriculum that promotes skills development and guided enrichment. Kids get to swim, learn to row a boat, play sports, and discover the natural world around them. A choice of five special curricular units allow all campers, second grade and above, to design their own camp program which they can change each week.
Units include: Team Sports, Arts and Crafts, Gymnastics, Theater Workshop, and Camping/Cooking/Pioneering.
Campers entering K and 1st grade enjoy their days in the Newcomers Unit.
We honor Jewish culture with Hebrew songs, Israeli dancing, challah baking classes, and a fun Shabbat celebration each Friday.
Reviews (81)
Review from the 2024 Summer Camp Survey
Location: Staten Island REVIEW: Overall, our son very much enjoyed this camp. -- It was a 40-min bus ride each way daily but he seemed to like that and made bus friends. --There was a LOT of swim time, which was the main draw for us to send him so far, and he seemed to improve at swimming and also have a blast at free swim. Having a pool on hot days was wonderful. -- At his age (6) there were sports but didn't seem to dominate. He came to LOVE the game of Gaga. I think they played it almost every day? -- There is a camp-provided lunch; our kiddo isn't picky at all but didn't seem to like the lunch that much so we supplemented with snacks. -- The grounds are incredible! We were able to tour with our son during the May open house. Felt very woodsy and what a suburban-style daycamp would look like. -- The camp seems very well run logistically; the bus process goes smoothly. -- There is a Jewish component to the camp because it's affiliated with the 14th St Y. This seemed very very light (challah on shabbat, calling color war maccabiah games) and so the camp would be a good place for kids of all backgrounds (and perhaps not the place to send a kid if you want deep Judaics). CHANGES: We wouldn't hesitate to send him back, but I would highlight two minor issues. --First is that I have no clue who actually was supervising the kids -- I never heard the name of any counselor or received any sort of update from the camp on my child's particular engagement (there are division heads who are accessible but that felt more like if there's a problem; he didn't have a problem we just wanted to know how he was doing). I heard that pre-COVID they would have a mid-summer open house for parents, which would have been great. -- Relatedly, while they gave us a daily schedule, the photographs were pretty lacking (and those that were shared not very good) as compared to other camps. Perhaps that's a bit of a petty comment but I find that the photos are what enables me as a parent to engage my kid and talk to him about how he actually was spending his days! DETAILS: Age of child; 6 … Weeks attended: 5Review from the 2024 Summer Camp Survey
Location: 1131 Manor Rd, Staten Island, NY 10314 REVIEW: This is our son's second year here. There is swimming 2X per day, which is primarily why we like it. The kids are outside almost all day every day, another reason we like it but it can get HOT. Lots of activities--sports, art, theatre. A large number of Park Slope kids go to this camp. Our son didn't love the 45-minute bus ride but sometimes would fall asleep on the way home, which was actually nice. CHANGES: A number of items, even though they were labeled, got lost. And parents don't go to the campgrounds, so it's not possible for a parent to search themselves. I didn't feel that the staff were motivated to really help me look for the items. DETAILS: Age of child; 7 … Weeks attended: 2Review from the 2024 Summer Camp Survey
Location: Staten Island REVIEW: Our kids absolutely loved camp! This was their first experience on a school bus round trip (from south slope to Staten Island) and everything went smoothly. The camp leadership is wonderful and very much willing to work with you to figure out what’s best for your kid. They have swim twice daily which was incredible through the sweltering summer and their swimming skills improved more over the summer weeks than at weekly swim classes because of the frequency. They were outside all day with lots of nature based activities (gardening, boating, frog hunting in the pond). 100% signing up for next summer. CHANGES: DETAILS: Age of child; 7 and 5 … Weeks attended: 7Review from the 2024 Summer Camp Survey
Location: Staten Island REVIEW: The camp was really organized, had structured days with a variety of activities (science, sports, arts & crafts, newspaper, etc), and swimming twice a day. My daughter really loved the camp, even the bus experience (although the trek can be long - ~1 hour each way), and it helped her sense of independence and her exposure to older kids. Plus, it really helped her confidence with swimming. The less ideal parts are the length of transport and how long the day is (8-5pm basically). However, she really loved this camp experience and I credit it with getting her ready for the longer days at Kindergarten (especially with after school programs). CHANGES: See above DETAILS: Age of child; 5 … Weeks attended: 4Review from the 2024 Summer Camp Survey
Location: Staten Island REVIEW: This is a daycamp in the woods. The kids go swimming twice a day, and it's a wooded area, so great for hot summers. There are lots of different activities, and older kids can choose some of theirs. Food and towels are included, which makes it easier to manage getting out the door. CHANGES: The bus ride is long (35-40 minutes), so if your kids are prone to carsickness, this might not be the place. DETAILS: Age of child; 6 and 9 … Weeks attended: 4Review from the 2024 Summer Camp Survey
Location: Staten Island REVIEW: Our child really enjoyed the camp, particularly being outside all day and swimming twice a day. Her swimming improved significantly. It was a long day and she was tired when she got home, but overall a great experience! CHANGES: DETAILS: Age of child; 4.5 … Weeks attended: 4Review from the 2024 Summer Camp Survey
Location: Staten island REVIEW: My kids definitely had a hard time with the bus ride - getting sick etc. They seemed to have a fine time at camp, it was nice they went swimming 2x a day and got one free play and one instructional. It sounds like there was a lot of in between time between activities, and the most amount of time was spent on swim and gaga ball. CHANGES: There is little shelter on site - so 2 days that were drizzly they came home pretty wet and muddy and camp was cancelled on the last day due to heavy wind forecasted. This can be challening for many. I also wish they did more different activities in 1 day DETAILS: Age of child; 6 … Weeks attended: 2Review from the 2024 Summer Camp Survey
Location: Staten island REVIEW: It went well! Overall great review. The bus ride was a highlight, to my surprise. As was the 2x/day swimming. We did the support program which I would describe as OK. Still took a lot of reminding for them to do the things we discussed, but better than other camps. CHANGES: Given how expensive it was, I would have appreciated your updates on how things were going. DETAILS: Age of child; 6 … Weeks attended: 3Summer camps that bus kids outside of Brooklyn?
My kid LOVES New Country Pride Camp: https://www.14streety.org/camps/newcountrydaycamp/new-country-pride-camp/ It's in a big campground on Staten Island (so not too far away), they swim twice a day (one period is instructional and one is recreational), and busing and lunch is included (they have stops in Bed-Stuy). They do fun Pride activities like decorating their shelter with disco balls and rainbows but my favorite part of the Pride camp division is just that the staff is super queer!Review from the 2023 Summer Camp Survey
Location: Staten Island How old was your child when they attended camp this summer? 6 Review: This was my son’s second year at this camp. He had a great time and loves taking the bus there. They have swimming twice a day and are outside all day. I love how responsive the staff is to any concerns. I didn’t love that the day was about an hour shorter this year, so we had to scramble to pick up. We’ll go back next year. What would you change about the program, if anything, and why? I’d prefer if the bus dropped him off after 5PM.Review from the 2023 Summer Camp Survey
Location: Staten Island How old was your child when they attended camp this summer? 7 Review: Our kid has an IEP and was able to get a spot in the extra support program, which may or may not have been part of why he had such a great time. He came home in such great spirits every day, really enjoyed the bus ride, got closer to independent swimming and raved about the nice counselors. He did lose a few things, but some of them came back and overall it wasn’t too bad. What would you change about the program, if anything, and why? More support keeping track of stuff. Also, they started out strong communicating the schedule, but then it was inconsistent. Would you like to add anything related to COVID and how the camp handled it? The camp is all outdoors so Covid didn’t have much of an impact.Review from the 2023 Summer Camp Survey
Location: Staten island How old was your child when they attended camp this summer? 6 Review: It’s on state park land in Staten Island. They swam twice a day. Son LOVED everything about itReview from the 2023 Summer Camp Survey
Location: Staten Island How old was your child when they attended camp this summer? 8 Review: My kids had another great summer at NCDC. Communication was good and the beginning-of-camp kinks were worked out quickly. My kids love swimming twice a day and all the outdoor activities. They both enjoyed arts and crafts this year. NCDC also stepped up its support of special needs this year and as a result of good communication with the support specialist, we had no issues with my son this year (he has adhd and dyslexia). What would you change about the program, if anything, and why? I wish they would move the Kensington bus stop to a safer location. Coney Island Ave is very chaotic.Review from the 2023 Summer Camp Survey
Location: Staten Island How old was your child when they attended camp this summer? 5 and 8 Review: My 8 year old loved this camp and my 5 year old had a pretty good time as well. They both loved swimming twice a day, and seemed to like their counselors and the activities. The younger got tired of the bus ride. They also said the food was good (lunch is included!). What would you change about the program, if anything, and why? The ride is a bit far. My younger one had some trouble fitting into his group and although the camp was very responsive once I reached out, I would have liked if they would have acted sooner since they had noticed the situation.Review from the 2023 Summer Camp Survey
Location: Staten Island bussing from Park Slope How old was your child when they attended camp this summer? 6 years Review: Swimming 2X per day is a highlight. Strong arts and sports too. Almost entirely outside rain or shine. Jewish component. Towel and lunch service provided. What would you change about the program, if anything, and why? Very hard to get a spot! Literally have to register within days of registration opening.Review from the 2023 Summer Camp Survey
Location: Staten Island How old was your child when they attended camp this summer? 5 Review: My daughter, entering first grade, was hesitant to attend a camp that requires a bus ride every day, but she ended up saying the bus was her favorite part and wants to return for the full summer next year. She gained a lot of confidence in the water and came home happy every day. What would you change about the program, if anything, and why? Additional training for CITs.Review from the 2022 Summer Camp Survey
Location: Staten Island How old was your child when they attended camp this summer? 6 just turning 7 Review: My kiddo skipped off to the bus stop every morning and camp home dirty, tired, and totally content. Having pool time twice a day was great in the heat. She loved all the various activities ranging from cooking to hiking. She came home singing songs and playing hand slap games and it was just an all around good time. The bus ride to and from was also part of the fun! For me the biggest question was bus ride (safety, traffic) and long day. The bus routine is easy and counselors communicate very clearly throughout. The day was long but just right for summer. All in all, a great experience. What would you change about the program, if anything, and why? Small things- not at all deal breakers: Letting kids choose activities sometimes (rather than just checking through). Lost and found could have been more efficient (we lost quite a few items that were never recovered despite being labeled, etc.).Review from the 2022 Summer Camp Survey
Location: Staten Island How old was your child when they attended camp this summer? 7 and 9 Review: My kids loved this camp! It is like a real day camp in NYC! The counselors were fantastic, the kids were able to swim twice per day and they enjoyed almost all the activities that were offered. For my 9 year old, he was able to select 2 of his activities each day, which gave him the freedom to choose what he wanted to do (he loved this). The administration seemed great - responsive, organized - the camp appeared very well run. Busing was convenient and easy. What would you change about the program, if anything, and why? N/A Would you like to add anything related to COVID and how the camp handled it? Kids were required to be vaccinated. Masks were optional (most kids did not wear masks) - if there was an exposure, we were informed but there was no need for isolation and/or any missed days of camp.Review from the 2022 Summer Camp Survey
Location: Staten island How old was your child when they attended camp this summer? 5.5 Review: All outdoors, swimming daily, three activities daily. Our son loved the camp, the counselors, the activities and the friends he made. He learned to swim while there! Went from being in a swimming vest to swimming without it and putting his head under water, something he would never have done before. They provided meals and snacks which he also loved. Not having to pack lunch was a bonus for me! And I was thrilled that he was eating balanced meals every day. What would you change about the program, if anything, and why? I would have liked more pictures/communication from the counselors. With covid we didn’t get to go to the camp while it was in session to meet counselors or visit. It would have been nice to have gotten more regular updates. The camp administration was good about communication otherwise. Would you like to add anything related to COVID and how the camp handled it? The camp handled covid well, we filled out a form every day and they sent regular communication about new cases.Outdoor full day camps for 5 year old for this summer
Recommended without full reviewReview from the 2021 Summer Camp Survey
Name of camp: New Country Day Camp Location: Staten Island How old was your child when they attended camp this summer? 7 Review: This is a fantastic outdoor camp with a swim program. It has a real “camp” feel because it is located in a wooded area. Our hyperactive son attended for three weeks and loved practically everything. They have games, sports, gardening, hikes and art projects. Lunch is provided so only need to bring snacks. His swimming skills improved massively. The camp probably works best for a kid who loves the outdoors, swimming and running around. The campers arrive by buses run by the camp, but from Park Slope it only took 20-30 mins each way. Would you like to add anything related to COVID and how the camp handled it? Kids wore masks on the bus. Otherwise no masks because it’s an outdoor camp.Review from the 2021 Summer Camp Survey
Name of camp: New Country Day Camp Location: Staten Island How old was your child when they attended camp this summer? 7 Review: The camp was wonderful for my 7 y.o. Their bus system was extremely organized, and the kids are outside all day. It's a long-ish bus ride, but my child enjoyed it, made friends on the bus the first day, and often fell asleep on the bus ride home. The camp was a parent's dream in that lunch and snacks are provided each day, as well as towels for swimming. What would you change about the program, if anything, and why? It's quite a bit more expensive than other day camps in the area, but I appreciate that the cost of transportation and food are included. Would you like to add anything related to COVID and how the camp handled it? Their COVID practices were solid.Review from the 2021 Summer Camp Survey
Name of camp: New country day camp Location: Staten island How old was your child when they attended camp this summer? 10 Review: We are very disappointed with the camp. They are disorganized and there was 30min of swimming and 45 min of sports time only. Most of the days are free time. The food was not great either. It was one of the most expensive camp we tried and we will definitely not go back.Review from the 2021 Summer Camp Survey
Name of camp: New country Location: New country How old was your child when they attended camp this summer? 6 Review: The reviews I got from my son (entering 1st) were mixed. I think overall he had a good time but he really didn’t like his counselors (who seemed to have more rules than I guess he’s used to) while they have instructional swim my son didn’t learn much after his 3 weeks- but it might just be him… The bus ride we long but it was well organized and always on time. The camp admin seems overall well organized. I was happy he got some good solid “nature time” and did a variety of different activities. What would you change about the program, if anything, and why? Shorter bus ride, nicer counselors, more pictures and daily communication from camp about the day. Would you like to add anything related to COVID and how the camp handled it? They seemed to handle it well. It’s 100% outdoor except the bus ride. Kids are always in masks.Review from the 2021 Summer Camp Survey
Name of camp: New Country Day Camp Location: Staten Island How old was your child when they attended camp this summer? 8 Review: We love NCDC. They pick the kids up on a bus and spend the whole day outdoors at a beautiful campground. Great activities. My son loved the counselors. And there is swimming every day! Both my kids learned to swim at camp (after being very resistant to lessons during the year). What would you change about the program, if anything, and why? A little pricey/ Would you like to add anything related to COVID and how the camp handled it? We were very satisfied with their COVID protocols.anyone sending their kids to new country day camp
My kids have both gone for many years and really liked it! It’s the most “suburban” like camp around! The only reason my daughter stopped was because she goes to overnight camp all summer. My son would be going back but we have relocated out of state. They swim twice a day, play sports, do arts and crafts, nature, etc. They are outside all day. The management is very responsive to any concerns (lost items, bus change, etc). I wholeheartedly recommend this camp! Happy to discuss details if you want to reach out to me directly!’Summer camp recommendations
My older son has gone to NCDC for the past two summers and loves it. (October 2019)Summer camp recommendations
Hi - my older kiddo goes to New Country Day Camp and we are hoping to send my Spring 2016 baby there next year. Its not exactly local, the campground is in Staten Island but the buses pickup from all over North Brooklyn. The campground is absolutely incredible - full on woods and they have three swimming pools so the kids swim 2 times a day. My oldest started going when he was 4 but he has a late year birthday so it was the year he was going to turn 5 so that's the only reason I am not 100% certain that [he] will be going next summer but I am going to be reaching out to them soon to see if they think he would be ok. I am a huge fan of NCDC and have hosted parlor meetings for them in the past. If a handful of folks are interested in learning more about the camp, happy to host another one specifically for this group or anyone else. (October 2019)2019 Summer Camp Review
This is an outdoor, general day camp in Staten Island. They bus kids from Brooklyn and Lower Manhattan. I liked that its fully outdoors and that the kids get to swim twice a day! Its weird not getting to see the camp in action since they don't have a visiting day - i wish i had gotten to meet her counselors. My daughter liked it for two weeks but was very tired by week three. Its a long day! Overall it seemed like a nice camp - not a ton of structure, other than the swimming, at least for the younger kids. Unclear if my daughter will want to go back next year - probably 50/50 chance but I know tons of kids love it and go back year after year. I am glad she got the experience of taking a bus.2019 Summer Camp Review
This was such a positive experience for my son. He loved the activities, the counselors, even the long bus ride (was impressed at how they go out of their way to make it fun). This is such a special place. My son loved the outdoorsy feeling of the camp and particularly liked the wilderness unit where he got to catch frogs and go on hikes and do things that city kids rarely get a chance to experience. I loved the swimming twice a day and my son definitely improved as a swimmer. It's an organized, well-run operation. What would you change? A little more feedback from the camp on campers' progress in the swim program.2019 Summer Camp Review
Age: 6 years old Review: This is a great camp. It's all outdoors and feels like you're in the country even though you're still in NYC. the bus network is extensive and well organized and the camp offers alot of activities, lunch and towels for the 2 swims per day.2019 Summer Camp Review
Age: 11 Review: My daughter loves this camp! This is her 3 or 4 year (can’t remember) and she loves to be outdoor and swim twice a day. There are many other activities to choose from (she in really into cooking and music this year) and plenty of space to run around! What would you change? I think food is decent but can be improved with healthier options2019 Summer Camp Review
Age: 4.5 and 6 Review: This is the best camp! Kids are outside all day long and swim twice a day. My kids come home each day, exhausted, filthy dirty, starving and so unbelievably happy and excited to go back to camp the next day. My daughter went from being afraid to put her head in the water to a total proficient swimmer in just 4 weeks of camp. My son comes up with new karate moves every day. The bus can sometimes be late in the afternoons, but there are lots of counselors on the bus and it is air- conditioned, so I think it is worth it. What would you change? I wish we got a bit more information about what the kids were working on in swimming.Summer Camp recommendations
My kids are going to New Country Day Camp. We love it!camps for rising Kindergarteners?
My kids who were going into pre-k and first grade went last summer and loved it; they’re signed up again for this summer. They swim twice a day and have so many fun activities.2018 Summer Camp Reviews
Summer 2018 Review: Loved camp overall (second year at NCDC). Swimming twice a day. Lunch and towels provided every day (improvement over past years). Very lightly Jewish camp but many non-Jewish campers and counselors too. Lots of great outdoors time in a beautiful, traditional camp setting. Age of child: 7.5 What would you change about the program, if anything? Only con is the bus ride to Staten Island daily. It's a bit of a haul but we think it's worth it.Review from the 2017 PSP Summer Camp Survey
This is my son's 2nd year but my daughter attended for 2 years, starting about 6 years ago, before going to sleep away camp. The camp is great. It's like suburban camps where everything in onsite and outdoors. The bus picks up and drops off about 3 blocks from our apartment. There is swim twice a day (one is instructional and the other is free) and my son takes such pride in what he's learned and can't wait to show us on the weekends. They play a lot of sports (his love) but have tons of choices including arts, pioneering and wilderness. The biggest change over the years is the communication with parents. Texts go to all of the bus is running early. Reminders are texted every Friday about earlier drop off for Shabbat. The unit leader is incredibly responsive to any concerns. If you could change anything, what would it be? I wish the camp didn't end an hour earlier on Fridays. It wreaks havoc with a working parent's schedule and winds up costing me a lot of extra money in babysitters. I wish that even though morning pick up is in Brooklyn, my son could go to after camp at the Y in Manhattan. I wish it cost less. It's much more expensive than most other local camps. Age of child: Almost 7 Based on a Summer 2017 experienceReview from the 2017 PSP Summer Camp Survey
In 20-30 minutes, the kids are in 40 acres of wooded area, in fact they saw deer their first week. There are several pools where they swim twice a day. Kids loved all the different activities. If you could change anything, what would it be? My daughter said at times it felt a little crowded. It's also expensive, but it helps a bit that they serve lunch 3 times per week and they provide transportation on a bus just a block from our house. Also, the more weeks you attend, the larger discount. Age of child: 6 and 8 Based on a Summer 2017 experienceReview from the 2017 PSP Summer Camp Survey
Amazing programming. Swimming twice a day! Lunch provided 3X per week. Only drawbacks from our perspective: approx one hour bus ride each day and drop off is 4:50pm (which is a bit early for our two working parent family). If you could change anything, what would it be? After camp option for Brooklyn based campers. Age of child: 6.5 years old Based on a Summer 2017 experienceReview from the 2017 PSP Summer Camp Survey
From the first informational session for parents to the last day of camp, we could not have been more happy with NCDC. S. was picked up one block away from home in Park Slope, by a fully staffed bus -- there was a counselor based at every bus stop. Trip to the campgrounds took about 30 mins, and then the kids spend the entire day outside. All counselors there were impressive, as were the camp leaders and their organizational skills. S embraced swimming and his skill in the pool improved tremendously; other activities included martial arts ("but mommy, all we did was kicks and punches, I already know how to do that!"), arts, volleyball, gaga ball. Lunch was provided three times a week as well. Happy to take anyone's additional questions ... Age of child: Young 6-year-old Based on a Summer 2017 experienceReview from the 2017 PSP Summer Camp Survey
This is a day camp with a sleep-away camp feel. It is held completely outdoors at the Henry Kaufman Campgrounds in Staten Island. They have 3 pools and the kids swim everyday. When it rains they stay inside the "shelters" which have a roof but on one wall and have dance parties and art projects. My kid loved his counselors, made fantastic friends, and came home appropriately exhausted every day. His least favorite part was changing for swimming twice a day and then changing back. If you could change anything, what would it be? I thought they were super great. I didn't really have any ideas to change anything. Age of child: 4.5 Based on a Summer 2017 experienceReview from the 2017 PSP Summer Camp Survey
Both kids love the many activity options, the counselors and staff, and the swimming, which they get to do twice a day. That's the real kicker for us, that they get to swim in an Olympic-size pool twice a day, every day. If you could change anything, what would it be? Age of child: 8 and 12 Based on a Summer 2017 experienceReview from the 2017 PSP Summer Camp Survey
The camp is great, unless it is raining all day. There are tons of bus stops, so you are likely to be able to drop your child off near home. The kids play in the woods of Staten Island all day. They swim twice a day, and they have a choice of tons of activities: marshal arts, acting, soccer, basketball, gaga, arts, nature lessons, etc. The counselors are incredibly caring. My kids loved it! If you could change anything, what would it be? Less swim days missed due to swim tests or other activities. Age of child: One kid age 5 this summer, one kid age 9 this summer. Attended at 8 last year. Based on a Summer 2017 experienceRe: [PSP] Camp that emphasizes learning to swim?
I want to second the 14th St Y's new country day camp it's a great camp all around - it's in the woods at the Henry Kaufman campground, there's lots of swimming and it's a real getaway for kids. Go to the open house. It's about 45 minutes from slope on the camp bus but kids usually talk on the way there and nap on way back. My twins went for 4 years and loved it.Re: [PSP] Camp that emphasizes learning to swim?
New Country Day Camp is on Staten Island, but they pick up kids by bus in Park Slope, and they have a real focus on swimming.Summer Camp Survey 2016
Age of child: 6 Review: We had a great experience with NCDC. I loved that my daughter spent the whole summer truly outdoors- it's a real camp experience. It was very well-organized but laid back as well. Staff were great, lots of updates for parents, and my daughter always came home happy and dirty. I think that's the sign of a great summer. What would you change about the program, if anything? After care in BK would be great but the bus arrived back at 4:45, so just a bit too early for working parentsSummer Camp Survey 2016
Age of child: 8 Review: My son has attended NCDC for the past three years, since he was 6. He gets picked up right in Park Slope every morning and dropped off after camp. Camp is at an outdoor campground on Staten Island. Best parts according to my son - playing sports, free swim (they swam twice a day including instructional swim) and exploring the woods. I was surprised that my son really liked the bus ride - the counselors were nice and engaging. When I asked my son what he liked the least, he said instructional swim - but I have to say - he was very comfortable in the water after his first summer, and this summer he learned to swim. What would you change about the program, if anything? I wish the bus dropped off later in the day. He came home at 5pm most days and 4pm on Fridays.Summer Camp Survey 2016
Age of child: 5 and 7 Review: We loved New Country Day Camp. The kids liked the swimming (twice a day!) and the warm, caring staff (including bus chaperones who chatted with parents at pick up about their children's day). I liked that the kids were outdoors, in the woods, and that there was a range of activities (a couple of examples: science (talking about the solar system one week); photojournalism (interviewing each other; composing group photos by color of clothing and contrasting background). Best outdoorsy, traditional camp experience we could find without going to sleepaway camp or putting the kids on a bus for an hour or more each way each day.Summer Camp Survey 2016
Age of child: 5.5 Review: He loved it! Tons of outdoor time and sports. The swim program was excellent. The organization was impressive. The bus ride was part of the camp experience. What would you change about the program, if anything? I wish there was an after care program in Brooklyn. The timing of the camp makes it hard for working parents and requires additional cost of a sitter to a very expensive camp.Review from 2015 Summer Camp Survey
Age of Child: 6 Likes: The gorgeous outdoor campsite, well-trained/caring staff, chance to swim every day and really improve, lots of kids from the surrounding neighborhood so she saw some familiar faces and made new friends who are nearby. Oh and they update their blog (private with a password) and Instagram so you can see what's going on during the day! And lunch is provided 2x a week (Wed hot dogs and pizza Fridays), and there is a snack every day, which really makes a difference in terms of convenience and packing. They also had a family visiting day that was a lot of fun and a nice break to get out of Brooklyn. What would you change? Two words: LOST STUFF. I am not sure why but my daughter lost so many things- she takes classes after school that require changing clothes and it's never been this bad. In 3 weeks she lots a water bottle, 2 towels, sunscreen, bathing suit (that was especially annoying), goggles, a pair of shorts and other stuff I am likely forgetting. Also, the camp admin staff wasn't great about responding to emails promptly (or sometimes at all), like when we had to change her bus a few weeks before camp started. I emailed a few weeks ahead and had to keep checking in. Also, for the younger kids, I wish they had given us a schedule of what activities they did during the day, because my daughter would sometimes forget. And it would be nice if it was a little cheaper, but it really is a good program. Would you send your child(ren) again? Yes Do you recommend? Highly recommend Do you have any other information to add? I was nervous about the bus ride but it ended up being totally fine- my daughter complained it was long but many of the Brooklyn camps bus to trip locations so that might end up being more time on the bus. I think it was nice downtime at the end of the day. It is definitely a little odd to not be going to the place where she is every day, and getting the chance to at least say hi to her counselors, but I got used to it and she thought they were great, which is what's important.Review from 2015 Summer Camp Survey
Age of Child: 6 Likes: Swimming twice a day; the variety of activities; Gaga; the very outdoorsy feel. This is a really unique camp experience. I like that they have designated sessions so the kids really get to know each other and there is some continuity from week to week. I liked the "open tent" philosophy of the camp and the emphasis on community, camp spirit and respecting others. It clearly had a positive impact on my son. What would you change? I wish there was a little more parent contact, esp about kids' progress in swimming. Would you send your child(ren) again? Yes Do you recommend? Highly recommendReview from 2015 Summer Camp Survey
Age of Child: 9 Likes: Sports,,swimming, counselors What would you change? Nothing Would you send your child(ren) again? Yes Do you recommend? Highly recommend Do you have any other information to add? NoReview from 2015 Summer Camp Survey
Age of Child: 6 Likes: Great range of things to do, warm and fun counselors, flexibility within reason, responsive administration. What would you change? The lost and found - my kid can't find stuff on his own. It's not at all diverse - racially or economically. That's obviously because of the cost, but it's a bummer. Would you send your child(ren) again? Yes Do you recommend? Highly recommend Do you have any other information to add? This was the first year NCDC offered an inclusion program for kids with special needs who need some extra support. We were in that program and it worked very well for us.Review from 2015 Summer Camp Survey
Age of Child: 9 Likes: Everything. They loved the counselors, the activities, grounds, the swim program and the atmosphere. What would you change? Nothing Would you send your child(ren) again? Yes Do you recommend? Highly recommendre: Kim's Kids
But the next year she expressed an interest in a more structured camp so we sent her to New Country Day Camp, which she loved even with the daily bus ride, and has been going to ever since. (Reviewed Jan 2015)2014 Summer Camp Review
Like: This is a very swimming-intensive camp (two swim periods a day, one instructional and one recreational). My daughter's swimming improved tremendously in only five weeks, both her comfort level in the water and her actual skills. She also loved the social life of camp. The little kids (up to rising second graders, I believe) stay in a group of 15 campers and two counselors all day, which brings nice cohesion to the experience. The older kids opt for a different "course of study" each week so do get mixed up with the other kids and spend more time with the specialty counselors (drama or martial arts or the like). The staff is very responsive to parent communications, and I always felt confident that my child was known to and well cared for by all the staff. Change I wish they did a better job with the lost and found! Despite everything having name tags, my daughter managed to lose three pairs of swim goggles, two water bottles and one flip flop (one! Who steals ONE flip flop!) Would you send again Yes Do you recommend? Highly recommend2014 Summer Camp Review
Program: Age of Child: 6 Likes: This is probably the only day camp in close proximity to Brooklyn where the kids spend the entire day outdoors and get swim instruction every day. The bus ride to the campground in Staten Island is half an hour (often less), and the place is beautiful. They have every activity imaginable (gymnastics, martial arts, yoga, theater arts, photojournalism, sports, arts and crafts), and the counselors are extremely attentive and well-trained. They also offer trips for the older kids (grades 3-6), including an overnight at a sleepaway camp (at extra cost). What would you change? Due to the bus transportation and large number of special activities, the camp is quite expensive. They also get home at 4:35 Mon-Thurs. and at 3:35 on Fridays, which means we had to hire a sitter for pick-up, as we both work full-time. I wish they got home a little later. Would you send your child(ren) again? Yes Do you recommend? Highly recommend Do you have any other information to add? Pay in full by March 1 to get the "early bird" discount.2014 Summer Camp Review
Program: Age of Child: 7 Likes: My children, both 7.5 years old, loved everything about New Country Day Camp. They enjoyed being outside all day, swimming twice a day, selecting their weekly electives, and riding the bus ride to and from. They came home tired, dirty, and hungry, but always happy to recount the highlights of the day. Every morning they bounded off to the bus stop, excited for another day of fun. What would you change? Nothing really. Would you send your child(ren) again? Yes Do you recommend? Highly recommend Do you have any other information to add?Review from 2013 Summer Camp Experience
Age of Child: 6 Likes: Swimming! Singing! Sports and outdoors all day long. What would you change? Nothing. Would you send your child(ren) again? Yes Do you recommend? Highly recommend Do you have any other information to add? One of my daughters started her 3 week camp session terrified of putting her face in the water. She's 6. By week three, she was doing handstands in the water, rolling around like an otter, and eager to learn more. I can't say enough about the awesome swim training.Review from 2013 Summer Camp Experience
Age of Child: 7 Likes: The bus ride, free swim, getting a new cap color as she progressed in her swim skills, lanyard, arts and crafts, counselors! What would you change? I wish the day could be a little bit longer and that the camp could provide lunch daily. It would also be great if there could be an "after-camp" location for parents who can't be back in Brooklyn by 4:30. I had to hire a counselor to get off the bus with my daughter and this was not as easy as I would have hoped. They used to let kids get on the bus in Brooklyn in the am and go to after camp at the 14th street Y but now kids have to get on and off the bus in the same borough. Would you send your child(ren) again? Yes Do you recommend? Highly recommend Do you have any other information to add? There was a new director this year after many, many years of the same director, so there were some growing pains but overall, things ran smoothly. This year, they had explained a clearer path for communication with division leaders and coordinators of the buses and swimming. This made it much easier to contact the appropriate person.Review from 2013 Summer Camp Experience
Age of Child: 7 Likes: I have 3 children at this camp--ages 5, 7, 7. The older kids liked being able to choose their activities each week and loved the sports and martial arts programs. The my younger child liked the older kids she met on the bus and seemed to love all the activities. She liked the camp experience in general--silly songs, making lanyards. What would you change? When it rains, they have to go to a nearby community center since the outdoor camp doesn't have enough shelter. However, the kids never complained about this. Would you send your child(ren) again? Yes Do you recommend? Highly recommendReview from 2013 Summer Camp Experience
Age of Child: 5 Likes: NCDC had a wonderful old-fashioned "real camp" feel. I didn't want my daughter to go to one of the day camps that just march groups of kids through the neighborhood streets to take them to the same three playgrounds we always go to anyway. For NCDC the kids have to ride the bus to Staten Island, but then they spend all day in a semi-wilderness environment: fields, woods, ponds, etc. I also love that they have swimming twice a day every day. In four weeks there, my daughter started putting her head underwater for the first time (she was extremely reluctant previously) and actually can swim horizontally now -- tremendous progress. What would you change? The kids have to carry a lot of stuff with them: towel, lunch, two swimsuits, sunscreen, etc. I hate to see these little kids wearing huge, heavy backpacks. I wish the camp allowed the option of paying extra for towel service and lunch to lighten the bags significantly. Would you send your child(ren) again? Yes Do you recommend? Highly recommend Do you have any other information to add? The camp sounds expensive compared to other programs, but considering it's a long day and a great experience, I definitely considered it a good value for the money.Review from 2013 Summer Camp Experience
Program: Newcomers Age of Child: 6 Likes: Loved the swimming program, gaga, all the outdoor activities, the counselors. What would you change? nothing it was great Would you send your child(ren) again? Yes Do you recommend? Highly recommend Do you have any other information to add? the only bummer was the visiting day. Even though we had a nice time there was no structure and it felt like we were flying by the seat of our pants.New Country Day Camp
My kids have attended New Country Day for the past few years and really love it. It's a day camp located on Staten Island and they have a great campgrounds where the kids swim twice a day, do sports, arts, etc. Basically, a real camp but close to the city. (http://www.14streety.org/index.php?src=gendocs&ref=NewCountry&category=Camp)Re: Summer camp suggestions?
My now-6 yr old went to New Country Day Camp last year as a newcomer. She loved it! She came home filthy and tired at the end of every day and slept very well all summer long. The bus ride was about 30 mins and that was probably her least favorite part of the day but they play music and she never complained about it. She learned tons of new activities and had never before showed interest in sports but after the summer, described softball as her "favorite game". We had absolutely planned on sending her back for multiple summers but they have changed he bus rules so that pick up in the am and drop off in the pm have to be to the same location. ThIs wont work for us b/c I can't be home by 5 pm from my job in manhattan. Last year, she was picked up in bklyn in the am and dropped off in manhattan at the 14th street Y. I've tried negotiating this but they don't seem to want to have to deal with having a morning bus roster and an evening bus roster. Very disappointing but I am looking into Park Slope Day Camp as our alternative. It will certainly be more convenient but I, too, was hoping for a "campus" experience. I thought NCDC was the answer.2012 Summer Camp Survey
Camp New Country Day Camp Staten Island, NY Day Care or Sleep Away-- Day Camp Program: Age of Child: 6 Likes: She loved the whole thing! The swimming (both free swim and instructional swim), the counselors, the taste of all activities. This was her first year at any camp and it was a great introduction. What would you change? I wish there could be a local drop off later than 4:30. I also wish that the swim times were longer (I believe it's twice a day for 1/2 hr each). Lastly, I wish there was a specific schedule for newcomers b/c my daughter can never remember what she did each day so I have no idea how to even prompt her! Would you send your child(ren) again? Yes Do you recommend? Highly recommend Do you have any other information to add? As a product of a day camp myself, I wanted a camp with one specific location, rather than many of the Park Slope camps that meet at a spot in the morning but go to different locations each day. This camp fit the bill perfectly. I don't think I've seen my daughter this happy ever and she is a very happy kid in general. Review from 2012 Summer Camp Experience2012 Summer Camp Survey
Camp New Country Day Camp Staten Island Day Care or Sleep Away-- DC Program: Age of Child: 7 Likes: Traditional summer camp experience in the woods (yes, of Staten Island!). Comes home every day saying "it was the best day ever" and conks out at bedtime. What more could a parent ask for? What would you change? My son lost A LOT of stuff (umbrella, two steel water bottles, baseball hat, and some other stuff I can't remember right now). They have a lost & found but for some reason, none of his stuff turned up. So maybe a better Lost & Found system or remind the kids (esp. the younger ones, like mine) to be more responsible for their things. Not a big deal, but worth mentioning. Would you send your child(ren) again? Yes Do you recommend? Highly recommend Do you have any other information to add? The staff is great. They're fun, high-energy, organized, upbeat, accommodating, loving and all-around wonderful. Review from 2012 Summer Camp Experience2012 Summer Camp Survey
Camp New Country Day Camp Staten Island Day Care or Sleep Away-- Day Camp Program: Newcomers Age of Child: 6 Likes: Outdoor activities, lots of swimming opportunities, young and engaged counselors, good updates via email and website What would you change? Provide lunch for the kids. Would you send your child(ren) again? Yes Do you recommend? Recommend Do you have any other information to add? Review from 2012 Summer Camp Experience2012 Summer Camp Survey
Camp New Country Day Camp 14th Street Y / Staten Island Day Care or Sleep Away-- Day Program: Newcomers program Age of Child: 6 Likes: EVERYTHING! swimming, sports, songs, fire building, s'mores, outdoors, hiking, Ga Ga, etc. What would you change? Longer day! Would you send your child(ren) again? Yes Do you recommend? Highly recommend Do you have any other information to add? Review from 2012 Summer Camp Experience2012 Summer Camp Survey
Camp New Country Day Camp Staten Island Day Care or Sleep Away-- Day Camp Program: Age of Child: 6 Likes: He loved the fact that the units switched each week so he could try different activities. Every time campers complete a unit they are given a carabiner with the name of that unit on it, and he loved getting the different carabiners. He did a different unit every week. What would you change? They don't have any indoor facilities, but this didn't seem to bother my child. Would you send your child(ren) again? Yes Do you recommend? Recommend Do you have any other information to add? Review from 2012 Summer Camp Experience2012 Summer Camp Survey
Camp New Country Day Camp Staten Island Day Care or Sleep Away-- DC Program: Age of Child: 7 Likes: Great activities, very good swimming program, well-organized, What would you change? A few of the counselors did not have the appropriate maturity level. Would you send your child(ren) again? Yes Do you recommend? Recommend Do you have any other information to add? My daughter had two amazing summers at NCDC prior to this one. This year - either because she is a little older or because she was used to the structure of school - she seemed to feel less confidence in the ability of the counselors to treat all the kids equally in the same way that her teachers try to do. She definitely felt that one of the counselors favored other children instead of her. I have a feeling this came out the less structured setting, and could have happened anywhere, but it does color my experience of the summer. Review from 2012 Summer Camp Experience2012 Summer Camp Survey
Camp New Country Day Camp Staten Island Day Care or Sleep Away-- DC Program: Age of Child: 8 Likes: NCDC allows the campers to pick their unit for the week. There are many to choose from including Martial Arts, Theater, Arts & Crafts, Sports, Gymnastics, Science and everyone's favorite - Camping Cooking and Pioneering. They are outside all day and swim twice per day. What would you change? Would you send your child(ren) again? Yes Do you recommend? Recommend Do you have any other information to add? Review from 2012 Summer Camp Experience(no subject)
New Country Day Camp Location - Staten Island How old is your child? (or the age when he/she attended camp) Age: - 8 What did you/your child like about the summer camp? She liked swimming twice a day, spending time outdoors and selecting her primary area of activity each week. What would you change about the program? I would prefer having one lead counselor for each age group and then having the campers move to the primary area for part of the day. That said, my daughter seemed to enjoy herself and didn't have trouble moving from group to group. Will you send your child back to this summer camp program next year? (Or would you if you could?) Yes Would you recommend this program to other parents for their child in the future? Highly recommendReview 2010 Summer Camps Survey
Program: New-Comers group Age of Child: 6 Likes: It was very outdoorsy and about as in-the-country as you can get for an urban day camp at 1 location. We were afraid my son wouldn't want to participate in some of the sports activities, but the counselors--who seemed pretty engaging and caring--got him to participate in everything in a non-competitive way. On visiting day, I felt one of them relayed very sincere observations of him. He fell in love with one of the female counselors. Swimming in 3 pools(!) was 2x day: instruction and then free swim. He liked being allowed to bring a spray bottle with which to cool off, and spray others, too. Lanyard! What would you change? Would you send your child(ren) again? Yes Do you recommend? Highly recommend Do you have any other information to add? Campers get very dirty, and sometimes wet (though they do have contingency plans/locations for very rainy days), as activities are held out in the open and under shelters. Bus trip (with AC) was not an issue, as we thought it might be; a few times it was late. After a so-so experience at Park Slope Day Camp in general, and drop-offs in a loud gym setting there being horrible the previous year--my son would come running after us (could have just been a developmental stage)--this was a welcome change. Newcomers (youngest) got to sample all activities, whereas those entering 2nd grade and above get to choose specialties.Review 2010 Summer Camps Survey
Program: Newcomers Age of Child: 6 Likes: Outdoors every day in nature in the trees of Staten Island, swimming twice a day in a program designed by Olympian Lenny Krayzelburg, Jewish culture. What would you change? Ability to meet counselors aside from visiting day; that kids go on bus daily means no parent access to counselors. Also, very expensive for a program in which all programs take place on one site with few "wow" specialties. Would you send your child(ren) again? Yes Do you recommend? Highly recommendReview 2010 Summer Camps Survey
Program: Various programs available. Kids choose every week. Except the "Newcomers" (going into K and 1st) Age of Child: 7 Likes: All the outdoor time, swimming twice a day, choice of programs, great staff. What would you change? I would LOVE a lunch program. Would you send your child(ren) again? Yes Do you recommend? Highly recommend Do you have any other information to add? It"s pretty pricey.Review 2010 Summer Camps Survey
Age of Child: 9 Likes: The ability to choose his primary activity each week; lots of good choices; really enjoyed martial arts, cooking/camping/pioneering and swimming twice a day; camp grounds What would you change? Better facilities for inclement weather - when it rained my son found camp boring ; Would you send your child(ren) again? No Do you recommend? Recommend Do you have any other information to add? I did not find the director to be "family friendly" . I think the counselors/instructors are great with the kids but leadership was inflexible and lacked generosity of spirit when we had a family emergency and needed to change bus routes, etc.Review 2010 Summer Camps Survey
Age of Child: 8 Likes: Our kids love this camp. They love the counselors, the campers, the activities, the 2x/day swimming, even the bus ride. What would you change? I would make the instructional swimming program better run. I get the sense that the kids do not get well-evaluated, and are put in the wrong levels (too easy). The kids don't seem to care, but it bugs me. Would you send your child(ren) again? Yes Do you recommend? Highly recommend Do you have any other information to add? Both of our kids (6 and 8) go to this camp and love it. We highly recommend this camp. Camp New Country Day Camp/14th Street Y Staten IslandReview from summer camp survey, 2010
Program: New Country Day Camp Age of Child: 6 Likes: My son loved camp. He loved his counselors, campmates, swimming, singing, riding the bus. There appeared to be no complaints whatsoever. What would you change? I'd like to have known the typical daily or weekly schedule, but other than that, it was fantastic. Would you send your child(ren) again? Yes Do you recommend? Highly recommendReviews from Summer Camp Survey, 2010
Program: "newcomers" program (for kids entering K and 1st grade) Age of Child: 6 Likes: I loved that the kids were outside in a shaded area, with lots of room to run around, do activities and get dirty. A big draw for us was that the kids swim twice a day (once instructional, once free). It's what a day camp should be -- fun, stress-free, outside, and on a real campground. What would you change? I would have liked more feedback from my kids' counselors (there was none), and I would have liked to have seen weekly pictures of the groups. I'm planning to bring this up with the director this year. That said, the director herself is very approachable and very responsive. Would you send your child(ren) again? Yes Do you recommend? Highly recommend Do you have any other information to add? One area of concern for me had been the bus ride, which is a good 45 minutes from Park Slope. I was worried that my son would be scared, especially the first week or so. What made it much easier was that he had 4-5 other friends on the bus with him, and it became a non-issue. I hadn't realized how important it was for a kid to have previous friends at camp -- I'll definitely keep this in mind next year.(no subject)
My daughter went to new country last year and had the time of her life (she was 5). the bus ride was totally fine - in the morning it was fun social time and in the afternoon it was good quiet time to zone out after a long exhausting day. she came back every day thrilled about what she had experienced, filthy, exhausted and super happy. the swim program was a highlight and she totally learned to swim within the first few weeks. it's expensive, but we felt like it was worth every penny. (Recommended 2/10)
