Kids work with their hands at woodworking, photography, cooking and art, all in the context of exploring the natural and physical environs of Boston.

So much of a child’s free time is managed and directed by in-school and extracurricular activities. At Boston Explorers, children make their own choices and have time to play and use their imaginations.

Drop off is from 8:45 a.m. – 9 a.m. The day begins at 9 a.m. and ends at 4 p.m.. We start and end the day at our base camp—the Union United Methodist Church Hall at 485 Columbus Avenue in Boston’s South End. (Boston Explorers is not affiliated with Union Methodist Church).

Unless there is a full-day excursion scheduled, children participate in a variety of hands-on and elective activities on site. Children have a hand in preparing and serving two snacks, plus lunch, daily. The day ends with a closing circle back at the base camp, where children debrief and share highlights of the day.

The number one responsibility of Boston Explorer counselors is to develop strong, positive relationships with children. Our counselors are young adults who help plan and lead the activities and excursions, teach skills and serve as role models. With one counselor for every six kids, campers get personal attention.

Counselors go through a rigorous interviewing and screening process. They are selected on the basis of experience working with children, positive attitude, interest in the urban outdoors, friendliness and character. We look for a diverse group of counselors who have a strong work ethic, demonstrate leadership and maturity and who truly enjoy the company of children.

Prior to the program sessions, counselors are required to participate in a week-long orientation and First Aid training program. All Boston Explorer staff and volunteers are checked for Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI).

Families are responsible for transporting children to and from the program. The Union Methodist Church is within easy walking distance of Mass Ave and Back Bay T stations on the Orange Line. Click here for directions.

• Backpack
• water bottle
• Comfortable clothes that might get dirty or wet
• Sweatshirt, fleece or jacket
• Sneakers (no sandals)
• Bathing suit and towel
• Sunscreen (we also provide this)
• Rain jacket (we go out even when it’s drizzling or raining)

Safety is always a priority. Field trips are highly supervised and are planned in advance so parents will be well informed.

Children will use a variety of small hand tools (hammer, screwdriver, clamps, etc.) and tools with blades and points (saws, drills, knives). With one adult for every five children we make sure there is always an adult close by to provide instruction, supervision and assistance. We use safety goggles and other protective wear.

Rowing is under the supervision of fully trained and certified instructors.

All swimming activities are under the supervision of certified lifeguards.

All of our counselors are trained in first aid. We have a medical consultant and carry a complete first aid kit and emergency contact information on all trips.