Summer Camp at the Farm inspires K-9 youth to engage in activities related to agriculture, animal science, nutrition, healthy living, and life skills on a 150-year-old working farm. Rooted in the 4-H Positive Youth Development framework, our programs are designed to foster self-esteem, cooperation and respect. Our diverse staff of Cornell Cooperative Extension educators and counselors lead campers in using their Hands to groom farm animals, their Heads to solve science problems, and their Hearts to make lasting friendships. Together, campers develop essential Health and self-care skills through gardening, cooking and physical recreation. Our campers enjoy fresh-air wagon rides, cooling off in sprinklers, learning how food grows, and caring for and handling animals. We use all the Farm has to offer including the Butterfly House, Backyard Farm,Nature Explore Classroom, Historic Almshouse Haybarn, and livestock pastures.
One-Week Sessions, Monday-Friday
The Explorers will experience an introduction to the natural world through exploring animals and plants, crafts, songs, stories, and dramatic play. They will build their science skills and begin to understand the role farms play in their lives.
The Pioneers will learn about how things work on the farm while exploring nature and animals. They will continue to build their science skills and make connections to their everyday lives.
The Trailblazers will expand upon their understanding of agriculture and the environment by making observations and engaging in content-based games and activities. They will build on their knowledge of animals through care and handling.
The Navigators will investigate the farm environment further and explore how they can make better choices in their own life. They will continue their trainings in animal care and handling and engage in science activities and experiments.
The Pathfinders get more deeply involved in every aspect of the farm and its environment. In addition to more in-depth animal handling and maintenance, they will learn to be environmental stewards.
This technical camp offers teens a one-of-a-kind opportunity to explore their interest in working with animals. Our skilled educators take a hands-on approach, guaranteeing participants a unique learning experience which includes daily feeding and maintenance of animals, grooming and handling, training young animals, studying embryology, and more. Participants will have a chance to work with all of our livestock: ponies, llamas, cattle, sheep, pigs, poultry, and rabbits.
$400 for week June 26-30. No before or after care available.
The Counselor in Training (CIT) program is for those interested in bringing their love of agriculture and the environment to our campers. CIT's are held to a high set of standards and there is an expectation of increased maturity and ability to be a positive role model. CIT's must be ready and willing to put the needs and interests of campers ahead of their own. In order to be considered for the CIT program, individuals must complete an application and submit two forms of reference, found here. Please note, due to volume of applications and limited openings, not everyone who applies is selected. Participation in CIT program does not guarantee future employment. CITs must commit to at least one of these two-week sessions: July 17-28, July 31-August 11, August 14-25.
$250 per two-week session, 8:15 am-3:45 pm
Applications are being accepted until June 1, 2023.
Brittany Naumann
4-H Education Program Manager
bn224@cornell.edu
631-852-4612
Last updated February 5, 2023