YMCA of Snohomish County Helps Youth

The YMCA of Snohomish County is offering summer camp to give kids and teens in Snohomish County an adventurous, active and healthy summer—one 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.

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 YMCA summer camp is a wonderful opportunity for kids to keep their minds and bodies active.

“YMCA summer camp supports the social-emotional growth, cognitive development, and physical well-being of kids,” says Scott Washburn, President & CEO, YMCA of Snohomish County. “In our day and overnight 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.”

A wide range of summer programs are available for campers ranging in age from preschool through high school.

? Preschool/Kindergarten camp focuses on educational enrichment and social skills.

? The YMCA offers full-day licensed enrichment programming and care for school-age children during summer months. Activities include crafts, games, sports, swimming, and weekly field trips.

? A variety of mini camps provide younger campers with social interaction, hands-on activities, exploration and fun.

? Sky-Y camp provides campers an outdoor day camp experience held at Hole in the Sky Park.

? The Y partners with experts to provide a number of exciting specialty camps: art, theatre, jump rope, cooking, science, and magic.

? Other specialty camps include horseback riding, skateboarding, and sports camps.

? During teen camps, youth will join friends and ride, slide, explore, and climb their way through summer.

? Xtreme Adventures overnight camping trips provide a week of fun with opportunities for hiking, river rafting, surfing, horseback riding, and outdoor camping.

Here 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 ymca-snoco.org/camp for details.

2. HEALTHY FUN: Day and overnight 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!

Camp offerings vary by branch and prices vary by camp. For more information on YMCA of Snohomish County summer programs or to reserve your space online, please visit our web site at ymca-snoco.org/camp or contact your local YMCA family branch.

Don’t be left out this summer, sign up early for the camp you want.

Everett Family YMCA
2720 Rockefeller Avenue, Everett
425 258 9211

Marysville Family YMCA
6420 60th Drive NE, Marysville
360 653 9622

Mill Creek Family YMCA
13723 Puget Park Drive, Everett, WA 98208
425 337 0123

Monroe/Sky Valley Family YMCA
14033 Fryelands Blvd., Monroe
360 805 1879

Mukilteo Family YMCA
10601 47th Place West, Mukilteo
425 493 9622

Stanwood-Camano YMCA Studio & Program Office
7009 265th St. NW, Ste. 105, Stanwood
360 629 9622