Camping at the Y Keeps Youth Moving, Learning and Exploring All Summer Long

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. For parents and caregivers looking to keep kids’ minds and bodies active, the YMCA of Central Waukesha County is offering summer camp to give youth an adventurous, active and healthy summer.

YMCA camp programs provide a fun and unique experience that gives children and teens the opportunity to explore the outdoors, meet new friends, discover new interests and create memories that last a lifetime. The YMCA of Central Waukesha County offers: traditional, sports, and specialty camps at both the Waukesha and Mukwonago YMCA and at the YMCA Children’s Academy.  The Y also offers Camp Double Eagle, an outdoor day camp located in Eagle with convenient transportation from both YMCAs.

Registration for the upcoming camp season is now open. The YMCA of Central Waukesha County encourages parents to give their kids the gift of camp. And, to ensure that all youth have the chance to experience camp, the YMCA of Central Waukesha County offers financial assistance to those in need. Many of our camps are licensed by the Department of Children and Families and welcome Wisconsin Shares. 

The first week of camp begins June 16 and camp is offered through Aug. 29. Camps run from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays with free extended care from 7 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. each morning and from 4:30 to 6 p.m. Camp programs are available for children ages 4-12 and for teens ages 13-15.

“YMCA summer camp supports the social-emotional, cognitive development and physical well-being of kids,” said Gala Siegel, director of program development, YMCA of Central Waukesha County.  “In our day camp, kids are in a welcoming environment where they can belong, build relationships, develop character, achieve and discover their potential. We encourage parents to give their kids the gift of camp so that every child can benefit from the experience.”

The five reasons why children and teens should attend summer camp:

1.    ADVENTURE: Summer camp is all about a wide variety of fun adventures and new experiences, and especially exploring the outdoors. YMCA camps have a new adventure for every child and teen. Visit www.ymcacwc.org 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: 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.    NEW FRIENDSHIPS: Amidst the fun of camp games, songs, swimming, canoeing and talent shows, campers meet new friends and strengthen existing friendships. The relationships 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, visit www.ymcacwc.org or contact Andrew Busalacchi, Waukesha YMCA camp director, at abusalacchi@ymcacwc.org or Jason Perugini, Mukwonago YMCA camp director at jperugini@ymcacwc.org.

A leading nonprofit committed to nurturing the potential of youth, the Y has been a leader in providing summer camp for nearly 130 years. The YMCA of Central Waukesha County Day Camp continues to give youth an enriching, safe experience with caring staff and volunteers who model positive values that help build their kids’ character.