We survived the polar vortex and snow storms, but we still have three months until camp starts. Summer camp deprivation is real, but have no fear! We’re sharing some helpful tips to survive the rest of the winter.
TRY OUT YOUR TIE DYE
Replace your sweaters with tie dye! We find tie dye is the perfect way to brighten not only your wardrobe, but also your mood. The short days and cold weather don’t stand a chance against you and your tie dye! Did you know YMCA Summer Day Camp staff wear tie dye every Friday to represent the Y's four core values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility blending together?
PERFECT YOUR CRAFTING SKILLS
Are your hands starting to get fidgety? Well consider making some Lanyards or God’s Eyes to pass the time and get some of that energy out. Plus, if you make these fun crafts, you have something to put on your backpack and show off to other people at school. When you’re showing off your skills, don’t forget to tell your friends where you learned to make these super cool crafts—at Y summer camp!
TRY OUT AN INDOOR S'MORE
When it seems like the warmth will never come and campfires seem so far away… ask your parents to make indoor s’mores using the microwave (only put the marshmallow in for a couple seconds, or you’re going to have a BIG mess). Or collect some sticks and roast your marshmallows over the fireplace. For extra yumminess, try using a Reece’s Cup. And for the non-chocolate lovers, try roasting a starburst over the fire… crunchy on the outside and gooey on the inside!
THIS IS A REPEAT AFTER ME SONG!
Nothing gets us in the camp mood quite like a camp song. Take this time to teach your family your favorite camp song! Maybe they’ll like the classics like Little Red Wagon and Little Sally Walker or maybe your family will like Have You Ever Seen a Penguin Dancing or Get Loose! Regardless of which songs your family takes a liking to, there are sure to be some good laughs.
SWIMMING ISN'T JUST FOR SUMMER!
Use this time away from camp to practice your swim strokes at your local YMCA. You know what they say, practice makes perfect! With a little bit of practice, you’ll be that much closer to passing your swim test.
If you try these tips and you’re still suffering from summer camp cravings, not to worry. Check out the Y's 2019 Camp Guide to see everything we’re planning this summer and enroll today! With over 30 locations and over 60 camp offerings, we know there is a camp that is a perfect fit for you and your family.
We can’t wait to see you this summer. Until then, we’ll be busy perfecting our s’mores techniques!