Programming keeps kids moving, exploring and learning

CAMBRIDGE – The Dorchester Family YMCA is offering a 10-week summer camp to give kids and teens in Cambridge, -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 Dorchester Family YMCA’s 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 Ashlie Elliott, youth development director at the Dorchester Family YMCA. “In our day camp, 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.”

There 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 www.dorchesterymca.org for details.

2. HEALTHY FUN: Y camp offers fun, stimulating activities that engage the body and mind, and also help children and teens learn the importance of nutrition to foster 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. Camp offers 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!

The Dorchester Family YMCA offers 5 different camps varying from your traditional camp experience to sports and specialty camps, running for 10 weeks of the summer. And, to ensure that all youth have the chance to experience camp, the Dorchester Family YMCA offers financial assistance to those in need as well as accepts Purchase of Care/Daycare Vouchers. If you’re interested in helping send kids to camp this summer, you can donate to the Dorchester Family YMCA on-line at www.dorchesterymca.org or in person at 201 Talbot Avenue in Cambridge.

A leading nonprofit committed to nurturing the potential of youth, the Y has been a leader in providing summer camp for over 131 years. The Dorchester Family YMCA continues to give youth an enriching, safe experience with caring staff and volunteers who model positive values that help build their kids’ character.

For more information, visit www.dorchesterymca.org or contact Youth Development Director, Ashlie Elliott at aelliott@dorchesterymca.org or 410-221-0505.

Editor’s note: Ashlie Elliott is the youth development director, Dorchester Family YMCA.