FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can we request a different pick-up location that’s more convenient for outer-borough families?

We can arrange for pick-up from any location in NYC as long as there are at least 5 children signed up for that location.

How long is the bus ride?

It is 50 minutes from Harlem. For other pick-up stops, the time will depend on the location in question.

Can we meet the other children directly at the Westmoreland Sanctuary?

Yes! If your family has other means of transportation to Mount Kisco, you do not need to take our bus. The fee of the program in this case is 50% less.

What happens in inclement weather, such as rain or snow?

In outdoor education, there is no bad weather, just bad clothing! Pono children are out in all kinds of weather. There is a Nature Museum at the sanctuary for when shelter is needed. We would only cancel a trip if the city schools are shut down due to dangerous weather conditions such as a snowstorm.

What activities will my child participate in?

In addition to the lesson topics announced for each day, your child will have the time to play and engage freely in nature. During our time at the sanctuary, your child might have magical encounters in nature such as catching frogs and tadpoles, pulling castle-like creations of frozen soil from the ground, touching a blue jay that was caught in the bird banding net, or tasting maple sap after successfully tapping maple trees.

Please check the photos and videos of the children’s activities at the sanctuary.

Could we request our child to be grouped with other children they know?

Yes, and we encourage it! We organize our children into small groups. Parents need to provide the name of the other child/children on their registration form. 

What happens if a child gets sick? What is the process and are there make-up trips?

In the event that your child tests positive to COVID-19, a credit for the trips they miss (up to a week) will be applied to your account. Pono issues no credit for any other reason and offers no make-up trips.

Can adults also join the trips with their children?

Parents are invited to join for free their child’s first trip. Let us know if you have any questions about this or if you wish to attend so that we make the necessary arrangements.

Are there any special discounts or offers?

Yes! Please subscribe to our mailing list to keep up with our current offers.

Is there someone that I can speak to to get more information?

Yes! Please feel free to write to us at C2S@pono.nyc to arrange for a time to talk. We will be happy to answer all of your questions.