Dates, camp types, activities, hours, cost, transportation… oh my! Let’s face it; choosing the right summer day camp for our children is no easy feat. With so many options out here in the Valley, we really have to dig through the smorgasbord of programs to find the best one for our families.
In order to make the best decision that will meet everyone’s needs, it’s vital to collect enough information to help make an informed decision so that you feel good about the place you select for your child—one that has stood the test of time.
Organizations like the YMCA have been around for decades. Fun fact, I even worked at the Surrey location back in the day, which gave me the opportunity to experience its programming first-hand, and receive feedback from local families.
Did you know that in the Greater Vancouver area, they’ve been offering camps for kids since 1907? That’s quite a track record!
YMCA camp programs offer kids age 5 to 17 the opportunity to learn about themselves, build confidence and make new friends in a safe and nurturing environment. Day camps are action-focused and have been designed to help kids develop their independence and teamwork skills.
Today, there over 20 camp locations across the Lower Mainland, Fraser Valley and Sunshine Coast.
Whether your little camper is interested in picking up some golf skills on the green, spending time in the forest, canoeing, paddle boarding, geocaching or partaking in a wide range of sports, the YMCA has the perfect program to suit their needs.
Let’s take a look at the three day camp options offered by the YMCA for summer break 2017:
(ages 6 to 17, children must have completed kindergarten to participate in these camps, two different locations)
Where kids and youth learn golf skills, life skills and positive values all at the same time. Through golf, campers learn the fundamental skills of the game, as well as life-enhancing values. Kids learn how to make healthy choices, build character and set goals, all while enjoying the game of golf. Whether it’s learning to be honest while keeping score, perseverance when losing or good judgment while making a shot, lessons learned stick long after camp is over. Extended before and after camp care is available.
(ages 5 to 12, children must have completed kindergarten to participate in these camps, various locations)
Keep your kids active and happy this summer while helping them grow and learn! Campers ages 5-12 spend fun-filled days doing activities like swimming, arts & crafts, sports and games. Campers also enjoy global education, literacy programming, hands-on science workshops and Play it Fair games that promote respect and cooperation. Extended before and after camp care is also available. At more than 20 locations across the Lower Mainland, Fraser Valley and Sunshine Coast, the YMCA has a variety of day camp options to keep kids engaged and having fun all summer long!
(ages 5 to 12, children must have completed kindergarten to participate in these camps, various locations)
Love the outdoors? This action-packed camp provides kids ages 5-12 with a range of outdoor land- and water-based programming that gets kids moving in the natural world. Activities vary by location, but may include ropes courses, archery, climbing, forest games, geocaching, paddle boarding, canoeing or swimming. This camp is best suited to kids who love to try new things, challenge themselves, and for those who just can’t keep still! Can’t get enough? Stay overnight! Campers have the option to stay overnight at camp one day of the week! Campers will enjoy a delicious dinner, traditional evening camp programming and games, along with a nutritious breakfast.
From day camps full of hands-on activities and out-trips, to overnight camps at the oceanfront YMCA Camp Elphinstone on the beautiful Sunshine Coast, the Y has something for everyone!
Register with a friend who didn’t attend a YMCA camp in 2016 and you’ll both receive 10% off your summer camp experience!
Note: YMCA provides financial assistance for families who can’t afford to send their child to camp (https://gv.ymca.ca/Join-the-YMCA/Financial-Assistance)
Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post. Photography by Trevor Meier of the YMCA.
