Camper & Parent Policies
The Makery Studios LLC
Last Updated August 2026

At The Makery Studios, we aim to build confidence and independence by letting kids get messy, try new things, and learn real skills. A safe experience is a partnership between our staff, campers, and families.
Our Camp Overview
* Age Group: Day camp for children ages 6–14.
* Location: Holy Spirit Retreat Center, 4316 Lanai Road, Encino, CA 91436.
* Operations: The Makery Studios LLC independently operates our programming; the Retreat Center is our host facility.
* Day Only: We offer day programs only; no overnight stays are available.
Registration & Camp Blocks
We offer separate AM and PM blocks. Families can register for either or both. Each block is a separate registration and only reserves space for that specific time.
* Schedule: Holiday weeks may be 3 days; Summer weeks are typically 5 days. Check individual listings for dates.
* Full-Day Bonus: Campers in both blocks get complimentary lunchtime supervision.
Drop-Off & Pickup
* AM Drop-Off: 8:30–9:00 AM
* PM Pickup: 4:00–4:30 PM
Campers registered for AM only must be picked up when that block ends. We only release campers to parents, legal guardians, or authorized adults (photo ID may be requested).
Late Pickup Policy
Pickup ends at 4:30 PM for the PM block. A late fee of $2 per minute, per family, applies after this time. Repeated late pickups may affect continued participation. If you are running late, please contact us immediately to arrange an alternative authorized pickup.
Lunch & Supervised Breaks
Campers staying for the full day must bring a clearly labeled packed lunch. The Makery Studios does not provide lunch.
* Guardians are responsible for packed food regarding allergies and dietary needs.
* To protect campers with severe allergies, we may ask families to avoid specific foods.
* Food sharing between campers is not permitted.
Hands-On Learning: Cooking & Baking
Food is meant to be experienced! With authorization, campers may taste and eat ingredients during supervised activities.
* Authorizations: Parents must complete our Allergy & Food Authorization form.
* Kitchen Safety: We use a shared commercial kitchen. While we take precautions, we cannot guarantee a 100% allergen-free environment.
Tools, Equipment & Safety
We use real, age-appropriate tools including ovens, sewing machines, woodworking tools, and adhesives.
* Supervision: Staff determine tool use based on a child's age, maturity, and ability to follow instructions.
* Safety First: Staff may modify activities or stop a camper from using a tool if safety concerns arise.
* Required: Parents must sign the Equipment & Activity Authorization and Liability Waiver.
Clothing & Gear
* Dress Code: Wear clothes that can get messy (paint, glue, wood).
* Footwear: Closed-toe shoes are strongly recommended and often required.
* Hair: Long hair must be tied back for safety near equipment and food.
Supporting Every Camper
We want to understand your child's personality and needs. Please use our Behavioral & Support Information form to share tips on communication, sensory needs, or anxiety.
* Inclusion: We make reasonable efforts to support all campers. However, we may restrict participation if a child’s needs exceed what our small group structure can safely provide.
* Contact Us: If you are unsure about accommodations, please reach out before camp begins.
Behavioral Expectations
Campers should treat others with respect, follow safety directions, and stay in supervised areas.
* Our Approach: We first try to redirect and problem-solve during difficult moments.
* Immediate Pickup: Targeted behaviors like physical aggression, bullying, or unsafe tool use may require immediate pickup without prior warnings. No refunds are given for behavioral removals.
Health & Medical
* Illness: Keep campers home if they have a contagious illness. Campers must be fever/vomit-free for 24 hours before returning.
* Availability: A guardian must remain reachable by phone at all times during camp hours.
* Medication: All medications (including inhalers/EpiPens) require a Medication Authorization. Never leave loose meds in a backpack.
* Emergencies: In life-threatening situations, we will call 911 immediately while attempting to reach you.
General Rules
* Authorized Pickup: Ensure your release list is current. Notify us of any legal or custody restrictions.
* Electronics: Phones must stay in backpacks unless permission is granted. Cell service is limited at the retreat center; call our main line to reach your child.
* Belongings: Label everything. We are not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged items.
* Property Damage: Families are not charged for accidental wear, but may be held responsible for intentional damage to equipment or the facility.
Policies & Refunds
* Missed Days: Registration reserves a specific spot. We do not provide refunds or make-up days for illness, travel, or scheduling conflicts.
* Changes: We reserve the right to change projects, recipes, or instructors based on availability or safety requirements.
* Media Release: Optional. You choose whether we can use your child's photo for promotional purposes.
Required Forms
All forms must be completed before participation, including:
1. Liability Waiver
2. Allergy & Food Auth.
3. Equipment & Activity Auth.
4. Medical & Emergency Info
5. Behavioral & Support Info
6. Authorized Pickup Form
Questions?
The Makery Studios LLC
4184 Lanai Road, Encino, CA 91436
info@themakerystudios.com