YOUTH PROGRAM INFORMATION

Where do I go for programs?
All programs will be held at the Center. The Community Sailing Center is located on the Burlington, Vermont waterfront just north of Burlington’s A_Dog Skate Park. To reach us by car, turn right onto Lake Street and follow it past Waterfront Park. Cross the train tracks and keep right to continue past the skate park. We are located at the end of Lake Street, and our front doors face the skate park. We’re also easy to find by bike or foot on the Burlington Bike Path!

What we expect.
Please park out on Lake Street and walk your campers into the building. Pulling into our parking lot creates a difficult and chaotic situation during the very busy drop off and pick up time. Please use the same process for pick up.
Students of all ages should arrive in time for the prompt start of their scheduled program, but not more than 10 minutes before class. Likewise, participants should be picked up from the Center within 10 minutes after class ends.

How does Pick Up work?
You’ll need to be here at 4pm and meet your child with their instructor to sign them out. If someone other than their parent or guardian will be picking them up, or if they can leave on their own please fill out the optional forms on our website and scan or bring it in on the first day of the camp. Forms are linked here.

What if it’s raining?
While we will never go out on the water if the weather is dangerous, rain alone is not considered dangerous. Class meets at all scheduled times, regardless of the weather. Be sure to bring a rain jacket and change of clothes!

Do I have to know how to swim?
For safety reasons, all program participants must complete a swim assessment on the first day of their camp. The swim assessment will be done wearing PFDs (life jackets), and they will wear them at all times near the water. We do not expect them to be strong swimmers, we merely want to assess their comfort in the water.

What should I bring to class?
The weather in New England, and especially Northern Vermont, is notoriously changeable. Please be prepared for conditions that range from 85° F with bright sunshine and no wind, to 48° in a rain squall with 18 knots of wind.
The Center will provide a life jacket for every participant. You are welcome to bring your own USCG-approved Type III Personal Flotation Device if you have one. The Sailing Center reserves the right to review all PFDs brought from home.
Please leave cellular phones and other electronic devices at home.

Every CSC participant should pack a small bag or back pack that includes the following items:

  • 1 quart of drinking water in a reusable water bottle
  • Bathing suit
  • Towel
  • 2 Healthy snacks
  • Sunscreen
  • Hat
  • Sunglasses -with safety strap!
  • Shoes secured at the heel and appropriate for getting wet (old sneakers work well – no flip flops)
  • Insulating layer -fleece vest, jacket or sweater
  • Rain jacket or windbreaker
  • Change of clothes and shoes
  • Medications as needed (for allergic reactions, asthma, etc)

The WAVES Initiative
The WAVES initiative is an experiential learning initiative for children and adults to enhance their connection to Lake Champlain. We are looking forward to continuing our efforts in ecological education and sustainability this year. Part of this includes minimizing the amount of waste we produce each week. Please join us in the effort and try to pack snacks and lunches in reusable containers, and with minimal individual packaging. We also would like to continue to cut down on the amount of paper cups used at camp – please try and send your child to camp with a reusable water bottle each day.

What if I can’t make it to class?
If you’re unable to make it to class or need to get in touch with us, please call the Center at (802) 864-2499.

Questions?
Please call the Sailing Center anytime at 864-2499. General inquiries can be directed to info@communitysailingcenter.org.

More information is available at www.communitysailingcenter.org

See you on the water!