Exciting summer adventures happen at YMCA of Burlington and Camden Counties’ Summer Camps, creating memories that will surely be described as “the best summer ever” for years to come. YMCA camp programs offer youth fun and unique experiences with an opportunity to explore the outdoors, meet new friends, discover new interests and create memories that last a lifetime.
Parents and children are invited to attend a Summer Camp Open House on Saturday, March 19 from noon to 2 p.m. at the Mt. Laurel YMCA to learn more about the Y’s summer camp programs, talk to camp directors and hear experiences from campers. Families who RSVP for the Open House will receive a free program membership (valued at up to $200). Plus if parents register and pay in full for camp they will save 5 percent.
Summer is the ideal time for kids to get up, get out and explore. But for some kids, summer means no access to recreational and educational activities to help them learn, grow and thrive during out-of-school time. As a result, some kids can experience learning loss and gain weight twice as fast than during the school year. Attending a YMCA summer camp is a wonderful opportunity for kids to keep their minds and bodies active.
“YMCA summer camps support the social-emotional growth, cognitive development and physical well-being of kids,” says Tim Kerrihard, president and CEO of the YMCA of Burlington and Camden Counties. “In our camps, kids are in a welcoming environment where they can belong, they’re building relationships, developing character and discovering their potential. We really encourage parents to give their kids the gift of camp to keep their kids active and engaged throughout the summer.”
The Y offers a variety of camps to meet needs and interests of every child, including traditional camps, teen travel, sports, outdoor, half-day, special needs, preschool and more. Camps are divided among age-appropriate programs for children ages 3 to 16 to spend the summer right in their own neighborhood. The Y has over 20 camp programs in Palmyra, Haddonfield and more.
Kerrihard says there are five reasons why children and teens should attend summer camp:
1. ADVENTURE: Summer camp is all about a wide variety of new experiences and exploring the outdoors. YMCA camps have a new adventure for every child and teen. Visit www.ymca-bc.org/camp for details.
2. HEALTHY FUN: Day camps offer fun, stimulating activities that engage the body and mind, and also help children and teens learn the importance of nutrition to help improve their healthy eating habits.
3. PERSONAL GROWTH: While in the welcoming environment of camp, youth have a chance to learn new skills, and develop confidence and independence by taking on new responsibilities and challenges. Camps offer cognitive learning and social-emotional development opportunities for achievement.
4. FRIENDSHIPS: Amidst the fun of camp games, songs, swimming, canoeing and talent shows, campers meet new friends and strengthen existing friendships. The bonds formed at camp are important and lasting for many youth.
5. MEMORIES: Summer camp is an unforgettable experience that will give each camper memories (and camp traditions) that will last a lifetime. Youth return to school with plenty of camp stories to share!
For more information on the Y’s summer camp programming, visit www.ymca-bc.org/camp, Welcome Center at the Mt. Laurel YMCA and Burlington-Riverfront YMCA or call (856) 231–9622.
