Happy Trails Camp FAQs
Where is Happy Trails Camp (HTC) held?
HTC is held at NCEFT’s property. We make use of our entire 12-acre property, including our covered arena, barn, sensory trail, horse stall and paddock areas behind our main barn, and other areas located toward on our property.
Will typically-developing children and those with disabilities be together or separated into different groups?
All children who participate in camp will participate together! The fundamental goal of HTC is to provide an outdoor camp experience, regardless of ability or disability of the camper. For families that blend children with disabilities and typically developing children, rarely do opportunities arise for siblings to experience a camp program together. Because we work with children with such a wide range of abilities, we can create a camp experience that will be fun, exciting and engaging to all campers. By having children together, they will bond, learn from each other, and grow together. Our goal is to make “ability” irrelevant, at least for one short week in the summer!
Who staffs HTC?
NCEFT regular staff and volunteers will staff HTC. We pair each camper with a young adult (teenager or older) “Buddy” to help provide a rich camp experience with plenty of supervision, one-to-one focus and fun.
What if my child with disabilities has significant/specific needs?
NCEFT staff (current therapists or instructors) will coordinate directly with families prior to camp to determine specific needs of campers with disabilities. In some specific situations, families may need to provide a 1:1 aide if the child’s needs exceed the abilities/qualifications of camp staff and volunteers. In addition, NCEFT staff and therapists will make the final determination if a camper is appropriate for camp and able to fully participate.
What should my child(ren) wear? Bring?
Campers should wear comfortable play clothes that are OK to get dirty! As we will be outside around animals, long pants and sturdy shoes are important. No sandals or open-toed shoes! Slather on that sunblock in the morning, and hats are recommended. Bring a healthy snack and a water bottle. And don’t forget to pack that sense of humor!
Is this a horseback riding camp?
HTC is not a formal horseback riding camp, focused specifically on learning to ride and riding every day. The week of HTC is technically NCEFT’s break week when our horses are enjoying their mandatory vacations. We will be around all our beautiful horses, donkeys and other critters every day (meeting, grooming, petting, learning about, etc.).
Can anyone attend HTC, or just NCEFT patient families?
HTC is open to current NCEFT patient/clients and their siblings. Spaces in HTC are usually filled to capacity, and spaces are given on a first-come, first-served basis. We will keep a waiting list for registrations should any cancellations occur.
Is before- or after-care available?
Due to staffing constraints, before or after care will not be available. Camp hours are 9:30a-12:30p. Please do not drop off children before 9:30a and please be sure to pick up children promptly at 12:30p as there will not be ample supervision before or after camp hours.
What are the payment and refund/cancellation policies?
• Regular Camp Fees: $475 per child/week
• Siblings receive a 10% discount on their registration
For example, if two siblings register, fees would be $475 + $427.50 = $902.50
Cancellation policy:
Cancellations must be made in writing to NCEFT. Cancellations prior to July 1 can be made at no charge. Cancellations made July 1 – July 15 are eligible for a 50% refund. Cancellations after July 15 are non-refundable.
Is financial assistance available for HTC?
Financial Assistance is available for NCEFT patients who currently receive aid. Please email admin@nceft.org or call 650-851-2271 ext. 1 for details.
