As summer draws closer, child care is a topic many parents are thinking about. Should my kids stay home this summer? Should they stay with Grandma and Grandpa? Do the kids need camp this summer? If these questions are floating around in your mind, read on for our thoughts on why your kids should come to camp this summer.
Here’s 4 reasons why kids NEED camp:
1. CREATING REAL HUMAN CONNECTION
Camp creates the perfect environment for kids to develop real connections and foster deep and meaningful relationships. Whether it's with other campers or the staff, your child will create friendships that will last a lifetime at camp.
2. EXPLORING OUTDOORS
After a long winter indoors, it’s time to head outside to enjoy the rain AND shine! Camp is full of opportunities to enjoy the world around us, including nature hikes, swimming, scavenger hunts, archery and so much more. We're all ready for a breath of fresh air.
3. LIMITING SCREEN TIME
Virtual classes and online teaching made learning during a pandemic possible, but not everything in life can be learned in front of a screen. Camp allows kids to explore by stepping out of their comfort zones to try new things through hands-on (and sometimes messy) activities.
4. IMPROVED MENTAL HEALTH FOR ALL
Not only will camp help improve your child’s mental health after a difficult and trying few years (see numbers 1-3 above), but parents need support during this time, too. Kids at camp means knowing your child is experiencing new things, meeting new friends and rediscovering some of the true joys of childhood.
Learn more about the YMCA’s Summer Day Camp locations across the city and how your family can take part! Whether you are looking for 1-2 days or a full week, the YMCA offers a variety of camp options to meet every family's needs.
Desiree Brandon-Gouveia is the Association Director of Day Camps for the YMCA of Greater Indianapolis. She'd love to talk with you about camps at the YMCA! Email dbrandongouveia@indymca.org.
