2026 Family Guide

We encourage all families — new and returning — to read the Family Guide in full. Please note that processes and programs have been updated for the 2026 season.

A NOTE FROM LAUREN BRANDT SCHLOSS, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR:

Dear students and families of Usdan,

It is my absolute pleasure to welcome you to Usdan for our 58th summer!

Welcome to Summer 2026! Our theme is VOICE. At Usdan, you get to develop your own voice as well as be part of the voice of the whole community.

How does that happen? Did you know that Usdan is intentionally designed so nature and the community create a safe environment where play and variety grow students’ skills? Those skills empower students to creatively contribute to the world through their unique, and our collective, VOICE.

Usdan is refreshing! It’s magical! Yet it’s actually real and happening for you! I eagerly await seeing how you are a part of it.

Let the summer begin!

P.S. for parents, especially new ones:

Remember: A summer at Usdan is a magical gift for you too!

Join us on campus for daily Festival performances, for our two Community Days, or for the Hip Hop Pool Party. Bring friends. Volunteer. Enjoy a summer of creativity and community — you deserve it.

Land Acknowledgement

Usdan sits on the territory and ancestral homelands of the Matinecock, Nissequogue, and Massapequa peoples, the peoples of “great water land.”  We offer this acknowledgement to take a step toward correcting the stories and practices that erase Indigenous people’s history and culture. We can honor the living heritage of the Matinecock, Nissequogue, and Massapequa by aiming to live peacefully and harmoniously with the natural life of these woods. 

This is a living land acknowledgement, and we will continue to revise and strengthen it in collaboration with community members.

IMPORTANT DATES

2026 SESSIONS

Usdan is open on weekdays only.

Usdan will be closed on Friday, July 3, in observance of Independence Day.

Classic, Discovery & Allegro Programs

8-week: June 29 – August 21

4-week A: June 29 – July 24

4-week B: July 27 – August 21

Recreational Camp Dates

Week 1: June 29 – July 2 (Closed July 3)

Week 2: July 6 – July 10

Week 3: July 13 – July 17

Week 4: July 20 – July 24

Week 5: July 27 – July 31

Week 6: August 3 – August 7

Week 7: August 10 – August 14

Week 8: August 17 – August 21

COMMUNITY GATHERINGS

At Family Orientation, your family will receive a printed calendar with important dates, including Festival performances, Theater shows, and Usdan traditions. If you do not attend Family Orientation, you will receive one in the mail. You will also be able to find a detailed calendar on our website.

Each week, we will email you an e-newsletter that includes a reminder of what’s happening in the week ahead. For now, please save the date for the following community gatherings:

Community Day: Wednesday, July 22
Hip-Hop Pool Party: Saturday, August 8
Troupe Performance: Monday, August 10
Community Day: Wednesday, August 19

Additionally, family members and friends of Usdan students are always invited for daily Festival performances. Please refer to the last page of the 2026 Calendar for important visiting information.

CONTACT INFORMATION

ADDRESS

185 Colonial Springs Road | Wheatley Heights, New York 11798

In case of weather or other emergencies, visit usdan.org for real-time updates and information. If you would like to opt-in to receiving emergency text messaging, please text #emergency26 to 631.646.1677.

EMERGENCY TEXT COMMUNICATIONS

Usdan uses text messaging as an additional way to communicate emergency reminders, announcements, and alerts. Please be aware that text messaging may be used in certain situations throughout your child’s session.

If you have yet to opt in to receiving emergency text messages and would like to, please text #emergency26 to 631.646.1677. Message frequency varies. Standard Message and data rates apply. Reply STOP to Opt Out.

FINANCE DEPARTMENT

If you have questions about your invoice or need to make a tuition payment, please call the Finance Department at 631.643.7900 ext 113 or email invoices@usdan.org. Please note that outstanding balances will result in your child’s withdrawal from the program.

HEALTH OFFICE

To speak with the Health Office, you may call 631.643.7900 ext 125, or for non-urgent matters, email healthoffice@usdan.org.

TRANSPORTATION

For concerns about a late bus, or to call in an absence, call the “Usdan dispatcher” at the bus company listed below. This is especially important if your bus is late, or you are unsure about where it is. It is best to call the company directly.

Please call your bus attendance monitor, listed on your child’s Bus Information email, by 7:30 a.m. if your child is unable to attend for the day. Vacation notes listing days of absence and “no bus pick-up” should be given to the attendance monitor. If you are unable to reach the monitor, please call the bus company at the number listed below. Please do not call Usdan for daily absences.

Non-urgent bus matters may be emailed to bus@usdan.org.

Bus Companies (please refer to your individual letter for which company services your child’s route):

Huntington Coach 631.261.9819

Suffolk Transportation 631.665.3245 ext 4310, 4311, 4312,, or 4323

Pioneer Transportation 718.931.5450

HOW TO SUPPORT USDAN

MAKE A DONATION

Since opening in 1968, Usdan has operated as a nonprofit organization. We rely on the generosity of our community to keep our gates open. All donations help provide access to the arts in a safe, welcoming environment where young artists of different ages, races, religions, interests, and socioeconomic and geographic backgrounds can find each other and share their love of creating. To make a donation, please visit usdan.org/donate.

SAVE THE DATES – COMMUNITY DAYS 2026

Wednesday, July 22
Wednesday, August 19
10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

As a 501c3 nonprofit organization, Usdan’s mission is to invite people of all ages to experience the natural beauty of our campus and the transformative power of the arts. Community Days are Usdan’s biggest fundraisers of the year. All are welcome. Come for some or stay for all!

Thanks to generous sponsors, this event is free for our community. For more information, visit community.usdan.org.

For more information on sponsoring our Community Days, please contact development@usdan.org.

DONATE GOODS

Items such as art supplies, theater costumes, milk crates, records, photography equipment, computers, and more are deeply appreciated. Your generous contributions help us provide a rich and creative experience for our students. Kindly complete the in-kind donation form and email it to development@usdan.org for review and approval.

DONATE TIME

Spend the day at Usdan and get a taste of the true Usdan experience!

We are looking for parents and caregivers to join our 2026 Summer Volunteer Ensemble at Usdan. Volunteers at Usdan welcome guests, give directions, assist with hospitality backstage in the Amphitheater, and more. We need volunteers on campus every day of the season, and especially on both of our Community Days this summer. Our campus community thrives on the help of our volunteer network.

To join our Volunteer Ensemble, please email volunteers@udsan.org. We hope that you will consider giving your time to Usdan this summer.

MEET THE STAFF

Usdan is more than a place — it’s a tight-knit community of people who work and thrive together. The staff and faculty are a crucial part of the Usdan experience.

YEAR-ROUND STAFF

DEPARTMENTAL LEADERSHIP

Transportation | bus@usdan.org

Courtney Kassinger | Associate Director of Camp Administration

Attendance Staff | attendance@usdan.org

David Schecher  | Attendance Director 
Adam Cordero | Attendance Assistant

Parent Support Staff | questions@usdan.org

Matthew Mantione
Brittney Rifkind

Health Office | healthoffice@usdan.org

Deans | dean@usdan.org

HEALTH OFFICE

healthoffice@usdan.org

To keep our students healthy, Usdan maintains an on-site Health Office to provide care and dispense medication. Families should have already provided a Health Record and Physical Examination form by May 31. If you have not, please send it as soon as possible to healthoffice@usdan.org.

Usdan’s Health Office requires both doctor’s orders and parent permission for all medications. Students may self-medicate with emergency medication only if specified by a doctor’s orders. Usdan will monitor all health and safety guidelines for Summer 2026 on an ongoing basis.

Medications

Usdan’s Health Office requires both doctor’s orders and parent permission for all medications. Students may self-medicate with emergency medication only if specified by a doctor’s orders. Medication and physician’s orders should be dropped off at Usdan prior to your child’s first day, either at Family Orientation or sent with them on the bus the first day.

All medications must be accompanied by a physician’s written order, using this form. This includes prescription and OTC medications. A written order is required for our nursing staff to administer any medication, whether prescription or OTC. This is a New York State requirement. Pharmacy labeling alone does not meet this requirement.

Medication forms can be submitted via email to healthoffice@usdan.org.

Over the Counter (OTC) Medications

Must come in original packaging
Must be labeled with the complete name of the patient
Must be accompanied by a physician’s written order

Prescription Medications

Must be in original pharmacy packaging with a label that includes:
Complete name of child
Date prescription was filled
Expiration date
Directions for use, precautions (if any), and storage instructions (if any)
Name and address of dispensing pharmacy
Name of prescribing physician

Transportation of Medications

OTC medications, inhalers, and/or epinephrine may be transported by your child on the bus and brought directly to the Health Office upon arrival.
Inhalers and epinephrine must have the original prescription label attached to the device or packaging.
Controlled medications must be transported in their original prescription bottle. These can be handed to the bus driver in a sealed envelope or bag, who will deliver them directly to Usdan staff upon arrival.

End-of-Session Medication Return

All medications will be sent home at the end of your child’s session using the same method by which they arrived, unless alternate arrangements are made.

DEAN’S OFFICE

dean@usdan.org

The Dean’s Office helps students become comfortable at Usdan. The Deans can offer advice or mentorship to students struggling with behavior, social skills, or their classes. The Dean’s Office staff are here to support all students and ensure they have a special summer experience at Usdan.

Please note, if you have specific questions regarding the content and curriculum of your child’s class, contact the department chair via their email listed under Meet the Staff.

CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION

Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts cares about children and works hard to provide a safe environment for all our young people. Our entire staff — from assistant teachers, accompanists, swim and recreation staff members to maintenance staff and the administrative staff — have a responsibility to be informed about and take an active role in the prevention of child abuse. Every staff member has completed a Mandated Reporter Training course which meets the New York State Education Department mandatory requirements for Training in Child Abuse Identification and Reporting.

If you have any questions or feel that a Usdan student is being abused, or is in danger of being abused, please contact any member of the Dean’s Office staff at dean@usdan.org or Nurse Linda Amarante at healthoffice@usdan.org.

WHAT TO EXPECT: THE FIRST DAY OF CAMP

The opening day of Usdan is thrilling, maybe a little nerve-wracking, and oh, so much fun. Here’s what to expect:

BUS

Before camp, you will receive transportation information with all of your child’s bus info via email from bus@usdan.org. (Please add @usdan.org to your contacts so that it does not go to your junk folder.) In this email, you will find important information such as your child’s bus company contact information, bus attendance monitors contact information, bus number, and approximate pick-up and drop-off times.

Bus Route Number: It is important that students know what their bus number is, especially at dismissal. Buses will be parked in number order in the afternoon. Their bus route will be printed on their schedule. If your child is in Discovery or Partners in the Arts, please write the bus number on their name tag to help facilitate staff getting them to the right bus. Be sure to update this information if this is a change in bus route number.

Approximate pick-up time: Don’t be late! Please be 10 minutes early for the first day, and five minutes early every other day. Extra time has been built in for the first few days. Buses are scheduled to arrive at Usdan between 9:30 – 9:45 a.m. and will depart for home at 3:30 p.m. Buses will not wait longer than three (3) minutes past the scheduled pick-up time and will not be able to return for students who miss the bus.

When buses arrive at camp, they are greeted by a member of the staff, who will provide instructions.

Please write your child’s bus number on their program or another special place, or if your child is in Discovery, on their nametag to assist the Counselors in getting them to the correct bus.

At the end of the day, everyone receives an ice cream treat before heading to their bus in the numbered slot that corresponds with their bus number.

Please be prepared for delays due to traffic. For concerns about a late bus, or to call in an absence, call the “Usdan dispatcher” for your child’s bus company listed in their bus information email.

DROP OFF & PICK UP

If you need to drop off or pick up your child(ren), you must have your 2026 Access Pass clearly positioned in your windshield to make morning drop-off and afternoon pick-up as easy as possible.

Morning drop off begins at 9:20 a.m. Classes begin at 10:00 a.m., so please drop off no later than 9:50 a.m. to allow the children time to get to class.

For afternoon pick-up, parents and caregivers should be on campus no later than 2:50 p.m. This allows students to get right into the cars at the end of the day (3:05 p.m.) preventing backups. You will be asked to park your car in the top lot closest to Administrative Office and show your Access Pass or photo ID to the Administrative Staff sitting at the table outside the Administrative Office.

Please be prepared for delays the first few days of camp.

CLASSIC CAMP: DISCOVERY (GRADES K – 1)

Discovery students must wear their nametag every day of the season. This nametag alerts our staff that a child is a Discovery student and helps them anticipate their needs and expectations. This name tag will be mailed prior to the first day.

Discovery students are received off the bus by Discovery counselors who will escort them to the McKinley Amphitheater. Their counselor will be with them every step of the way to help with anything they need. Be sure to write your child’s bus number on their name tag.

CLASSIC CAMP: PARTNERS IN THE ARTS (GRADES 2 – 3)

In advance of the start of your child’s session, they will receive a nametag at Family Orientation. If you cannot make Orientation, it will be mailed to you. Make sure your child has their schedule printed and nametag when they leave home for the first day of camp.

Upon arrival, students in grades 2 and 3 will be ushered to the McKinley Amphitheater where they will meet their leader who will escort them to each of their class periods. At the conclusion of the day, their leader will take them to get their ice cream treat and then to the bus lot for their ride home.

If you would like your child to become an independent camper, please complete our independent camper request form.

CLASSIC CAMP (GRADES 4 – 12)

Make sure your child has their schedule printed when they leave home for the first day.

The Usdan campus is easy to navigate, and the staff is friendly, but sometimes we still need an insider to help us around at the beginning. Students should not hesitate to ask for help! Should your child need help orienting themselves, Usdan staff members wearing a bright blue t-shirt or students wearing a pin with “Ambassador” written on it will be able to help them.

RECREATIONAL CAMP (2 – 8)

Upon arrival, students attending Recreational Camp will meet their group and counselor near the picnic tables by the Welcome Center. At the conclusion of the day, their counselor will take them to get their ice cream treat and then to the bus field for their ride home.

AFTER CARE

Following their daily ice cream treat, students in the After Care program will take a quick stroll to the McKinley Amphitheater to meet After Care staff. After Care programs may vary daily and can include board games, arts activities, recreational time, and more. Swimming will be included, so we recommend an additional swimsuit and towel.

Devices are not allowed at After Care. Children in the After Care program do not receive bus service home. They must be picked up by a parent or authorized person at Usdan’s campus before 6:00 p.m.

If you have signed up for After Care, you will receive a separate email with more detailed information about the program. If you are interested in After Care, but have not yet signed up, please email enrollment@usdan.org. The cost is as follows:

8-Week: $650

4-Week A: $475

4-Week B: $475

1-Week Recreational Camp: $125/week

Please email aftercare@usdan.org with any questions.

PREPARING FOR CAMP

WHAT TO BRING

Nametag (for Discovery and Partners in the Arts students)
Reusable water bottle
Lunch
Mask (optional)
Swimsuit and towel (if your child is in Discovery, Recreational Camp, or U Time)
Sneakers or walking shoes (we do not recommend flip-flops or sandals)
Snack (for Discovery and After Care)
Bug spray
Sunblock
Hat
Umbrella, poncho, or raincoat
Extra socks or other clothing in case of wet weather
Yoga mat (if your child is taking Yoga)
Smock (if needed)
Instrument (if your child is taking instrumental music classes)
Dance attire (if your child is taking a Dance class, see below for details)
Camera (if your child is taking Photography)
Anything else which would make your child’s day more comfortable

ATTIRE FOR SPECIFIC CLASSES

Some departments require dress conducive to course activity. Please note that Usdan maintains an inclusive environment and encourages students to dress in the attire they feel most comfortable in.

ART

A smock or old shirt to protect clothes.

DANCE

The Dance Department welcomes all interested students. If the dancewear or shoe requirement hinders you from taking class, please reach out to the Dance Chair for assistance, at jselesky@usdan.org.

All classes: Hair that falls to the shoulders or below should be pulled back off the face.

Dance Adventure: Jazz shoes and socks; comfortable, nonrestrictive clothing, e.g., shorts (no jeans), leggings, dance pants, yoga pants, sweatpants, T-shirt, tank top.

Ballet: Ballet shoes; tights are preferred but leggings or jazz/dance pants are acceptable. Leotards are preferred but t-shirts or tank tops are also acceptable. If proficient in pointe, you may bring pointe shoes.

Broadway Jazz: Jazz shoes; comfortable, non-restrictive clothing, e.g., shorts (no jeans), leggings, dance pants, yoga pants, sweatpants, T-shirt, tank top, leotard, tights. For the safety of the dancers, please restrict overly loose or baggy clothing. Feet: Jazz shoes.

Hip-Hop: Sneakers; comfortable, non-restrictive clothing, e.g., shorts (no jeans), leggings, dance pants, yoga pants, sweatpants, T-shirt, tank top, For the safety of the dancers, please restrict overly loose or baggy clothing.

Tap: Tap shoes, with or without socks depending on comfort; comfortable, non-restrictive clothing, e.g., shorts (no jeans), leggings, dance pants, yoga pants, sweatpants, T-shirt, tank top, leotard, tights. For the safety of the dancers, please restrict overly loose or baggy clothing.

RECREATIONAL CAMP

Athletic shoes, with closed toes; swimsuit and towel.

U TIME (IF STUDENT CHOOSES TO SWIM)

If your student would like to swim, please send them with a swimsuit and towel during the first week of their session. They will be swim tested that week.

YOGA

Comfortable clothing without buttons or zippers that is easy to move in. Students are encouraged to bring their own mat, which can be stored on campus during their session. If a student cannot supply a mat or forgets their mat, Usdan has extra.

INSTRUMENTS

Students in Orchestra, Band, Jazz Ensemble, or Chamber Ensemble are asked to bring their instrument to Usdan. For the convenience of musicians who cannot take their instrument back and forth to camp, Usdan provides 24-hour instrument storage at Instrument Check. You can pick up your child’s slot number on the first day of camp.

Instrument Check is conveniently located on the way to the Music Department. All checked instruments must be in protective cases and marked with the owner’s name. Musicians can pick up a special sticker for their instrument case at the Instrument Check building on the opening days of each camp session.

MOBILE DEVICES

Usdan believes that while mobile devices such as phones and tablets can be tools for creativity, camp is a place to disconnect from the frenzy of technology — to enjoy the plants and wildlife that surround us and to interact with the friends in front of us.

Usdan is a device-free campus. Students are not permitted to use their devices on campus, unless they have a health need that requires them to stay connected. In this scenario, the Health Office will supply them with a device “pass” which they can show upon request. With their teachers’ permission, students can use their device in class to record a sample or take a picture. In this scenario, the device must be returned to the students’ backpack immediately afterwards.

Students are permitted to use mobile devices on the bus.

If you need to contact your child during the day, please call the Usdan Administrative Office on 631.643.7900.

LUNCH

Students are required to bring their own lunch. There is no refrigeration, and students are required to carry their lunch in their bag. If a student forgets or loses their lunch, Usdan Administration can provide a backup lunch. Please note many students with food allergies attend Usdan. We kindly ask that students not share their lunch with others.

We know that lunchtime may be a source of anxiety in the first few days, as students are getting to know each other. Our assistant teachers monitor the lunch area and are supportive in helping students find friendship and conversation.

ICE CREAM & SNACK

Each afternoon, before boarding the buses, students are served an ice cream snack at no extra charge. Lactose- or gluten-free frozen treats are available in the Health Office for those students who need them. If your child is in the Discovery program or is attending the After Care program, please provide an additional snack.

BRINGING FOOD FOR PARTIES OR OTHER EVENTS

Please do not supply your child’s class with food or treats for birthday or end-of-season parties, whether on campus or on your child’s bus. This will protect the health and safety of students with food allergies. If a student comes in with food, it will be confiscated.

WATER

As there is nowhere on campus to purchase beverages or food, students are advised to bring their reusable water bottle. Water filling stations are located throughout the campus for student use. Students can purchase additional water bottles at the Usdan Store in the Welcome Center. Compostable cups are also available.

STAYING COOL DURING HEAT WAVES

Here’s how we will keep your students cool during a heat wave:

We will rotate classes into cool-off areas throughout the day.
We will use wet bulb thermometers to determine when to take breaks and activity levels. These thermometers measure not only temperature but also the impact of humidity, wind speed, and solar radiation on the body.
We will have multiple misters running — two made by Sustainable Design students!
We will have plenty of water stations set up around campus and will encourage all students to stay hydrated.

BATHROOMS AND CHANGING ROOMS

At Usdan, students may choose the bathroom and changing room that best fits their gender identity.

We offer traditional binary bathrooms throughout campus, as well as all-gender bathrooms. A student may use whichever is most comfortable for them. If a student is unsure of where to find the closest comfortable bathroom, they can simply ask a Safety Monitor or a staff member.

At swim, we offer the option of traditional binary changing rooms, or an all-gender changing room. The changing areas all have curtained off areas for privacy.

Usdan staff will communicate to student performers the options available for dressing rooms.

SWIM TESTING

All campers take a swim test to determine which pool is the safest and most appropriate for their swimming level. These procedures are designed to ensure that every camper has a safe and enjoyable experience in the water, based on their individual swim abilities.

Here’s how the testing works:

🟡 Yellow Bracelet Requirements:
To receive a yellow bracelet, swimmers must complete the following in the 4.5 -foot pool without stopping:

Submerge fully underwater
Swim 8-10 yards of freestyle
Tread water for 30 seconds
Swim 8-10 yards of freestyle back to the wall

🟢 Green Bracelet Requirements:
To earn a green bracelet, swimmers must first pass the yellow test. Then, they must do the following with no goggles:

Jump feet first into the 12-foot pool and fully submerge
Tread water for 60 seconds
Swim freestyle or breast stroke across the dive take (10 – 15 yards)
Swim freestyle or breast stroke back to the starting point

🔴 Red Bracelet:
Swimmers who choose not to take the yellow-level test or do not pass the yellow-level test will receive a red bracelet.

Bracelet Pool Access Levels:

🔴 Red bracelets: Limited to the 3-foot pool
🟡 Yellow bracelets: Access to all pools except the diving board
🟢 Green bracelets: Access to all pools, including both diving boards
No Marker: Student has not been to the pool yet and has not been swim tested.

Swim Schedule by Period:

Periods 1, 2, and Discovery have instructional swim Monday through Thursday and free swim on Fridays
Periods 3 and 4 are primarily free swim, but campers may opt into instructional swim if they’d like

If you have any questions, please reach out to us at swim@usdan.org.

WHAT NOT TO BRING

Forbidden items for students and visitors:

Cigarettes
Vapes or e-cigarettes
Matches
Lighters
Drugs
Alcohol
Weapons of any kind

Possession of any of the above items could result in immediate expulsion with no refund. No smoking or vaping is permitted at Usdan or on Usdan buses. Smoking on the grounds or bus could result in immediate dismissal.

Items to leave at home:

Skateboards
Rollerblades
Frisbees
Water pistols
Wide-tipped markers
Portable radios
Shaving cream

Students are also advised NOT to bring:

Cell phones
Tablets
iPods
Expensive watches, including Apple Watches
Cameras
Jewelry
Money beyond that needed for the Usdan Store or emergencies

The safekeeping of these items cannot be guaranteed, especially during swim periods.

LOST AND FOUND

Please label all items being sent in with your child. All found items are held at the Lost and Found area near the bus field for no longer than five (5) days, except valuables, such as glasses, wallets, mobile phones, jewelry, etc., which will be brought to the Administrative Office for safekeeping.

NATURE & SUSTAINABILITY

Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts maintains a pristine, natural campus for the enjoyment of all students. Exploring the campus is an integral part of the Usdan experience. Studies show that hiking and spending time outdoors can boost creativity, improve focus, and encourage positive thinking.

At Usdan, students take part in a wide range of arts and recreational activities, many of which include physical movement, the use of materials or tools, or time spent outdoors. While all activities are thoughtfully designed with safety and age-appropriateness in mind, participation may involve minor risks such as slips, strains, or exposure to natural elements like sun, insects, or poison ivy. Some classes may also have age or experience requirements to support a successful experience. Families are encouraged to review class descriptions before the summer and will be asked to acknowledge these expectations as part of the enrollment process.

MOSQUITOES

Usdan encourages all students to use organic herbal insect repellent to prevent mosquito and other insect bites. Usdan takes care to remove standing rainwater where mosquito larvae may linger, but mosquito bites are a natural consequence of spending time in wooded areas.

TICKS

Students are told to perform regular tick checks while at Usdan. If a student gets a tick bite at Usdan, they are immediately taken to the Health Office to have the tick removed.

As an extra precaution, families are encouraged to thoroughly check their children for ticks after each day and carefully remove any ticks present. (The recommended method is simply using a piece of tape or sticky lint roller to pull a loose tick off). If a child has been bitten, be sure to monitor the bite site for irritation.

Here are some tips to safely remove an attached tick, should you find one:

Pointed tweezers are the best tool to use.
Place tweezers as close to the skin as possible. Try to grab the tick’s head or mouth, right where it enters the skin.
Pull upward with a slow, firm, and steady motion. Try to avoid breaking the tick, but don’t be alarmed if the head breaks off and remains in the skin. Disease transmission is not possible without the entire body.
Place the tick in a small container of rubbing alcohol to kill it.
Disinfect the bite area with rubbing alcohol or hydrogen peroxide.
Contact your child’s healthcare provider.

To learn more about tick prevention, visit www.cdc.gov.

POISON IVY

Poison ivy is a common vine found throughout the northeastern United States and beyond. Contact with the plant can cause an allergic reaction that triggers skin irritation and blisters. Nature students are taught to recognize poison ivy’s trademark three-leaf pattern and not to touch any part of the vine. Students enrolled in programs that regularly venture into wooded areas are supplied with pre-contact solutions that help prevent an allergic reaction.

Usdan removes poison ivy near our pathways.

SUSTAINABILITY

As Usdan works towards our sustainability goal of reducing campus waste, we encourage students to be creative in their use of reusable containers, cloth napkins, and refillable water/drink bottles to reduce waste during lunchtime.

WEATHER

Severe Weather Protocol

In case of inclement weather, Usdan will provide the latest announcements via text communication sent to Usdan parents and caregivers. If you have yet to opt-in to emergency text messages, you may opt in by texting #emergency26 to 631.646.1677. By providing your phone number, you agree to receive SMS messages or phone calls from Usdan for emergency communications only. Message frequency varies. Standard Message and data rates apply. Reply STOP to Opt Out.

Shelter In Place

In the event of severe weather or lightning, students and faculty will be required to remain in their studios for safety. This can lead to late starts and departures. We thank you in advance for your patience and understanding.

All persons must remain sheltered in place until Usdan Administration has announced an “all clear” and has determined that it is safe to travel around campus again.

If you are visiting campus, we require that you follow our shelter in place policy, so we ask that you please check the weather and plan your schedule accordingly.

If you are in your car waiting to pick up your child during a lightning storm, please understand that there may be delays as your child will be sheltered in place and will not be able to travel around campus until it has been deemed safe.

We understand that this policy may cause frustrations and delays and apologize in advance. We ask you to please understand that the safety of our students, staff, and visitors is of the utmost importance, and we appreciate your patience.

Possible Camp Cancelation

Due to the design of our campus, there is insufficient indoor space to shelter every student. If conditions are deemed unsafe for our students and staff, programming may be cancelled. Notifications regarding camp cancellation will be communicated via social media channels, email, and text messages.

According to the refund policy, no credits will be issued for days when camp is closed due to weather-related safety concerns.

VISITING CAMP

Families and friends of Usdan are invited to attend all Festivals, performances, exhibitions, and events throughout the summer. Community members will receive a weekly email reminder of upcoming events along with notifications of any changes to this calendar. Click here to sign-up for our newsletter.

ACCESSING CAMPUS

2026 Access Passes are digital and will be emailed to families in advance of the start of the season. Passes should be printed at home in advance of visiting campus. Be sure to keep your pass on the dashboard of your car or show it upon arrival in a taxi/rideshare, when visiting Usdan.

Passes may also be shown on a phone or mobile device. Please make sure to download or screenshot the pass ahead of time as our campus does not have reliable cell phone reception.

If you wish for a friend/family to attend a performance, please send them a copy of your 2026 Access Pass for them to show upon entry to the campus. If for some reason you cannot send it to them, please call the Administrative Office to have them put on the security list. Visitors without identification will not be admitted.

All visitors will receive a visitor pass upon entrance to Usdan, which must be displayed on their person at all times.

WELCOME CENTER

Located between the McKinley Amphitheater and Administrative Office, the Welcome Center houses visitor information, the Usdan Store, and our low sensory space for students during Festival. Merchandise is also available online at usdan.org/store.

WIFI & MOBILE DEVICES ON CAMPUS FOR VISITORS

There is spotty cell service throughout campus. There is Wi-Fi in the studios and in the Administrative Office. Please plan accordingly and note for our students, our campus is device free.

TRAVELING TO USDAN

FROM POINTS NORTH & WEST: NEW YORK CITY, NASSAU COUNTIES & WESTCHESTER

VIA LONG ISLAND EXPRESSWAY

Queens Midtown Tunnel to the Long Island Expressway to Exit 49S or Throgs Neck Bridge to Clearview Expressway to Long Island Expressway to Exit 49S. Continue on the service road, parallel to the Expressway, for 3 lights to Pinelawn Road. Turn Right onto Pinelawn for 6 lights (there is a left-hand turning lane at the 6th light). Turn left onto Colonial Springs Road. The entrance is 1 mile on your left.

VIA SOUTHERN STATE PARKWAY

Belt Parkway to Southern State Parkway, Exit 35 (Wellwood Avenue). Follow Wellwood Avenue, north, past the Long Island National Cemetery, just past Newsday. Turn right onto Colonial Springs Road. The entrance is 1 mile on your left.

FROM POINTS EAST-SUFFOLK COUNTY

VIA LONG ISLAND EXPRESSWAY

To Exit 49N. At the traffic light on the exit ramp turn left onto Pinelawn Road. Cross over the Expressway heading south on Pinelawn Road. Continue on Pinelawn for 7 lights (there is a left-hand turning lane at the 7th light). Turn left onto Colonial Springs Road. The entrance is 1 mile on your left.

VIA SOUTHERN STATE PARKWAY

To Exit 35 (Wellwood Avenue). Follow Wellwood Avenue, north, past the Long Island National Cemetery. Turn right after onto Colonial Springs Road. The entrance is 1 mile on your left.

VIA THE LONG ISLAND RAILROAD

The nearest station is Wyandanch on the Ronkonkoma Branch. There are taxis and app-based car services at the station. Long Island Railroad information can be found at www.mta.info.

TAXI SERVICE

Rideshares (Uber, Lyft, etc.) are available in the area. Please visit the Administration Office when calling your ride so that we can let security know.

POLICIES & GUIDELINES

Even the home of summer fun has a few rules.

Since our very first summer, Usdan staff and students have embraced the belief that we should treat others with respect, empathy, kindness, compassion, and understanding at all times. Even when it’s hard to do. Especially, when it’s hard to do.

Together, we can create an environment that welcomes every student and that celebrates those on stage. Like the staff and students before us, using this simple philosophy and common sense, we can find energy and inspiration in art and a roadmap to be good citizens at Usdan and in life.

STUDENT POLICIES: GENERAL

Students must adhere to the policies listed below. Students will follow directions without insubordination and respond to reasonable requests. Failure to comply with these policies may result in corrective or disciplinary measures, up to and including expulsion. Failure to heed a warning issued under these Policies will result in further discipline.

Kind Communication: It is expected that students will speak kindly and respectfully to other students and faculty/staff. Students are not permitted to share abusive, threatening, profane, or harassing communication, either in person, by e-mail, text/voicemail/phone, social media, or any other written or verbal communication including defamatory, offensive, or derogatory comments regarding the camp or staff made publicly to others.

Anti-Harassment: Usdan is committed to promoting an inclusive and supportive environment for all. Usdan prohibits harassment, discrimination, bullying, or hateful language based on race, creed, color, religion, national origin, sex or gender identity, age, disability, sexual orientation, ethnicity, citizenship status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Camp Operation Interference: Usdan does not permit disruptive or threatening behavior, artwork, and attire that interferes — or threatens to interfere — with operations, including the effective operation of a class, lunch period, bus ride, Festival performance, passing period, office, building, parking lot, or event.

Bullying and Cyberbullying: Usdan students are always expected to use respect toward each other — both at camp and online. Please be a good citizen by not participating in, or tolerating, bullying at camp or cyberbullying via any social media platform. Saying hurtful or malicious things about others, no matter the form, is never tolerated by Usdan. If a student is a witness or the victim of bullying at camp or cyberbullying, please report it to the Dean’s Office immediately.

Communicating with Staff & Faculty: Students are not permitted to contact staff or faculty members directly through email, text messages, or social media.

Attendance: Regular attendance in class and at performances is expected of all students. Unexplained absences will be reported to parents/caregivers, and repeated absences from class may result in expulsion from Usdan without a refund of tuition. Students may accompany family on a vacation, but no refund of fees is made for absences.

Conduct on the Bus: For safety, standing in the aisles of the bus is not permitted and all students must wear a seatbelt. Students must maintain a safe level of noise. Eating is not permitted on Usdan buses. There is no application of sunscreen or insect repellant permitted on the bus. Students are not permitted to take photos or videos of other students, even with their consent. If you do not abide by these rules, intended for your wellbeing and that of other students, you may be dismissed from Usdan.

Conduct in the Amphitheater: When attending or participating in a Festival performance at the McKinley Amphitheater, the goal is to create an atmosphere of focus, engagement, appreciation, and respect. Another goal is for students to understand and be comfortable in various performance settings. A Usdan staff member will guide students through the proper behavior for each setting.

Festival shows are categorized as a low or high sensory experience. This simply means that the performance supports audience members (and performers) in experiencing the show with accommodations that make the experience more accessible, whether they need more or less sensory stimulation.

Our low sensory zone is located in the Welcome Center and supported by one of Usdan’s behavior specialists. Parents can find out more about this and request a pass for their students to access this zone by emailing dean@usdan.org.

Attending Theater Shows: A student who has a sibling in a Theater Department production is invited to attend their sibling’s performance. A parent or guardian must fill out the Theater Sibling Show Request Form in advance in order for their child to attend the show. Due to limited space, students who do not have siblings in any productions will not be able to attend, other than Troupe’s production, which will be held in the McKinley Amphitheater. Parents and guardians do not need to fill out a request form for their children to attend the Troupe performance.

Leaving the Grounds: Students are not permitted to leave the ground and doing so may result in immediate expulsion.

Prohibited Items: Storing, possessing, or using any real or replica firearms or weapons, as well as illegal drugs, alcohol, cigarettes, or vape paraphernalia by anyone on campus is strictly prohibited and may result in immediate expulsion.

PARENT/GUARDIAN POLICIES: GENERAL

Usdan recognizes the value of a mutually supportive relationship between the camp, the students, and the parents/caregivers. We believe a child is best served when the camp and parents/caregivers share a commitment to collaboration, to open lines of communication, and to mutual respect. Parents and Guardians must adhere to the policies listed below.

Kind Communication: It is expected that parents/caregivers will speak kindly and respectfully to staff and other community members. Usdan recognizes the value of a mutually supportive relationship between the camp, the students, and the parents/caregivers. We believe a child is best served when the camp, child, and parents/caregivers share a commitment to collaboration, to open lines of communication, and to mutual respect. Parents are not permitted to share abusive, threatening, profane, or harassing communication, either in person, by e-mail, text/voicemail/phone, social media, or any other written or verbal communication including defamatory, offensive or derogatory comments regarding Usdan or staff made publicly to others.

Anti-Harassment: Usdan is committed to promoting an inclusive and supportive environment for all. Usdan prohibits harassment, discrimination, bullying, or hateful language based on race, creed, color, religion, national origin, sex or gender identity, age, disability, sexual orientation, ethnicity, citizenship status or any other characteristic protected by law.

Camp Operation Interference: Usdan does not permit disruptive or threatening behavior, artwork, and attire that interferes — or threatens to interfere — with camp operations, including the effective operation of a class, lunch period, bus ride, Festival performance, passing period, office, building, parking, or event.

Resolving Issues: It is expected that parents/caregivers will address any concerns in a positive and supportive manner and will avoid public actions or behaviors detrimental to Usdan or its employees. Parents/caregivers will treat members of the Usdan community with respect and provide Usdan an opportunity to resolve issues of concern before public criticism.

Bullying and Cyberbullying: Usdan parents are always expected to use respect toward each other — both at camp and online. Please be a good citizen by not participating in, or tolerating, bullying at camp or cyberbullying via any social media platform. Saying hurtful or malicious things about others, no matter the form, is never tolerated by Usdan. If you or your child witness or are the victim of bullying at camp or cyberbullying, please report it to the Dean’s Office immediately.

Excessive Unscheduled Camp Visits: Excessive unscheduled campus visits, e-mails, text/voicemail/phone messages, or other written or oral communications will not be tolerated. Usdan staff and administration may not always be immediately available to speak with you. Staff and administrators have a practice of attempting to return all phone calls/e-mails within 24 hours, Monday through Friday.

Communicating with Faculty: Parents should not contact faculty members directly via email, phone, text, or social media. Parents are welcome to email department chairs if they have any questions or concerns regarding faculty or classes.

Group Learning: Our educational environment is collaborative by design, and we encourage and facilitate group-oriented work. By choosing to enroll at Usdan, parents/caregivers acknowledge that their child can work and thrive in a group setting.

PARENT GUIDELINES: PICKING UP STUDENTS

Parents and caregivers occasionally need to pick up students during the day for appointments. Parents, caregivers, and anyone else authorized must have their 2026 Access Pass on the dashboard of their car clearly showing their child(ren)’s name(s). Please bring photo identification as well. You may also show the 2026 Access Pass on your phone.

If an adult who has not been previously authorized on the enrollment form picks up a student, we must have written permission from the parent/guardian. An email to questions@usdan.org is sufficient. The safety of Usdan students is our most important concern, and we will not release a child to anyone without express permission from the parent/guardian.

Please call ahead or email us at questions@usdan.org so we are expecting you. You must bring your access pass and a photo ID.

If your child normally takes a bus and you would like to pick them up at the end of the day, you must alert Usdan the evening before, if possible, or as soon as you are aware you will be making the change. We must make sure your child does not get on the bus, and the bus does not wait for them, causing unnecessary delays. Please see “Drop-Off & Pick-Up” under “What to Expect: The First Day of Camp.”

Taking Your Child’s Friend(s) Home: If a parent or guardian wants their child to go home with another Usdan student, both children must be picked up. Students may not ride on any bus other than the one assigned to them by Usdan. Written permission must be provided by the parents/caregivers of both students. Please provide 24-hour advance notice.

ALL GUEST POLICIES

Our campus is a precious commodity, and we ask that you help us ensure it remains so by disposing of garbage in the bins placed throughout the grounds. Please also consider zero waste solutions or reusable solutions sustainable whenever possible.

Please note, by visiting Usdan you grant permission for us to take photos, audio, and video recordings of you to share through Usdan’s social media and promotions. If you wish not to be photographed or recorded, please let a staff member know. If a parent or guardian wishes to take their child home after a visit, they must be signed out from the Administrative Office with a valid ID.

When visiting Usdan, we ask that you respect the policies outlined below. Anyone who does not abide by these policies will be removed from Usdan and may lose visiting privileges.

All visitors must check in at the Security Booth and, will receive a Visitor Pass. This pass must be worn at all times. Anyone on campus without a pass will be asked to leave immediately.
An adult should never be alone in a bathroom with a student. Whenever possible, please wait until students have exited the bathroom.
Photographing students in the pool area and restrooms is strictly prohibited. You may photograph your own child in other areas of the campus, but please exercise discretion when photographing other children. Please do not post photos of children other than your own on social media without permission from the child’s family.
Visitors coming to campus during a camp day are not permitted to ride on any Usdan student bus, bring pets onto campus (service and therapy dogs are welcome, but due to health department regulations, we require a copy of their vaccination record on file with the Health Office), or use any of Usdan’s recreational facilities.

STAY CONNECTED

Do not miss out on any of the fun at camp!

Follow us on social media: See what your campers are up to by following us on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, YouTube, and LinkedIn. Every week we will post photos and videos.

Weekly Newsletter: Each week we will email you with information about upcoming performances, photos, videos, interviews, and more! Make sure you are opted-in to receive our emails.

Non-Emergency Texting: Opt in to receive text message reminders about upcoming Festival and in-studio performances, photos from camp, special promotions, and more. To start receiving these messages, please text #usdan26 to 631.646.1677. Please note, by opting in, you agree to receive SMS messages or phone calls from Usdan for information about camp enrollment, promotions, etc. Message frequency varies. Standard Message and data rates apply. Reply STOP to Opt Out.

Daily Festival Livestream: Take a break during your workday to watch our daily Festival Performance streamed live on Usdan’s YouTube channel. Tune in at 12:10 p.m. or 12:35 p.m.

ARE U A USDAN ALUM?

We love when our parents and caregivers want to pass Usdan on to the next generation! If you, or someone in your family, is a Usdan Alum, please reach out to kleeds@usdan.org. We’d love to hear more about your journey since graduating from our program, and let you know about exciting Usdan Alumni opportunities!

2026 Family Guide

A NOTE FROM LAUREN BRANDT SCHLOSS, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR:

IMPORTANT DATES

2026 SESSIONS

COMMUNITY GATHERINGS

CONTACT INFORMATION

ADDRESS

PHONE

EMAIL

WEBSITE

SOCIAL MEDIA

EMERGENCY TEXT COMMUNICATIONS

FINANCE DEPARTMENT

HEALTH OFFICE

TRANSPORTATION

HOW TO SUPPORT USDAN

MAKE A DONATION

SAVE THE DATES – COMMUNITY DAYS 2026

DONATE GOODS

DONATE TIME

MEET THE STAFF

YEAR-ROUND STAFF

DEPARTMENTAL LEADERSHIP

Transportation | bus@usdan.org

Attendance Staff | attendance@usdan.org

Parent Support Staff | questions@usdan.org

Health Office | healthoffice@usdan.org

Deans | dean@usdan.org

HEALTH OFFICE

Medications

DEAN’S OFFICE

CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION

WHAT TO EXPECT: THE FIRST DAY OF CAMP

BUS

DROP OFF & PICK UP

CLASSIC CAMP: DISCOVERY (GRADES K – 1)

CLASSIC CAMP: PARTNERS IN THE ARTS (GRADES 2 – 3)

CLASSIC CAMP (GRADES 4 – 12)

RECREATIONAL CAMP (2 – 8)

AFTER CARE

PREPARING FOR CAMP

WHAT TO BRING

ATTIRE FOR SPECIFIC CLASSES

ART

DANCE

RECREATIONAL CAMP

U TIME (IF STUDENT CHOOSES TO SWIM)

YOGA

INSTRUMENTS

MOBILE DEVICES

LUNCH

BRINGING FOOD FOR PARTIES OR OTHER EVENTS

WATER

STAYING COOL DURING HEAT WAVES

BATHROOMS AND CHANGING ROOMS

SWIM TESTING

WHAT NOT TO BRING

LOST AND FOUND

NATURE & SUSTAINABILITY

MOSQUITOES

TICKS

POISON IVY

SUSTAINABILITY

WEATHER

VISITING CAMP

ACCESSING CAMPUS

WELCOME CENTER

WIFI & MOBILE DEVICES ON CAMPUS FOR VISITORS

TRAVELING TO USDAN

FROM POINTS NORTH & WEST: NEW YORK CITY, NASSAU COUNTIES & WESTCHESTER

FROM POINTS EAST-SUFFOLK COUNTY

POLICIES & GUIDELINES

STUDENT POLICIES: GENERAL

PARENT/GUARDIAN POLICIES: GENERAL

PARENT GUIDELINES: PICKING UP STUDENTS

ALL GUEST POLICIES

STAY CONNECTED

ARE U A USDAN ALUM?