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Through a mix of fun and educational activities aimed at improving well-being, kids will experience new adventures, learn and master new skills, share and trade interests with friends, exchanging plenty of high-fives along the way. Working with SEER Analytics, independent impact measurement experts, to find out how camp benefits kids, the Y recently surveyed nearly 40,000 parents and caregivers with kids enrolled in camp programs.
Ninety-one percent of parents/caregivers said they agreed the Y’s day camp program helped kids make new friends. In addition, 81 percent said they agreed the program helped their kids discover what they can achieve, while 86 percent agreed their child felt a sense of belonging at their Y camp. “With school out during the summer, many kids don’t get enough physical activity or learning—a critical gap the Y is addressing,” said Suzanne Richards, school age director, Darien YMCA Day Camp.
“In our day camp, kids are in a safe environment with nurturing adults where they feel welcome, develop character and explore new talents and interests to reach their potential. We want to ensure that kids in our camp program go home with so much excitement for all they’ve accomplished and enjoyed that they can’t wait to come back the next day.”
The Y’s day camp activities focus on impacting the social-emotional, cognitive and physical development of all kids campers have the opportunity to swim in one of two indoor pools; sail and canoe on Holly Pond; be creative with arts and crafts; learn different sports; tumble in the state-of-the-art gymnastics center; and more.
This year, the Darien YMCA School Age Camp will begin its “Camp Readers” program. Children will have the opportunity to read independently or within a group for 30 minutes throughout their camp schedule.
“We want to show kids that reading is fun and help build their reading skills throughout the summer,” said Richards.
To learn more about the Darien YMCA’s day camp program, contact Suzanne Richards at (203) 655-8228 ext. 1331, srichards@darien-ymca.org or visit www.darien-ymca.org.
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