Spring Break campers have the ultimate ‘staycation’ at their local Y

At the Elmhurst and Lake View YMCAs, Spring Break campers didn’t have to leave town to go on epic adventures. With their imaginations and some help from the Y’s creative staff, campers at both centers took a “trip around the world” from the safety and convenience of their local Y.

Over 40 kids at the Lake View Y enjoyed safari, mountain, rainforest, and beach-themed activities, including games, crafts, and a photo booth.

“It was such a joy for us to see the children start each day with wonder and excitement in their eyes and finish each day with big smiles on their faces,” said Lamya Castillo, OST Program Director at the Lake View YMCA. “Spring Break 2021 was an adventure to remember!”
 

Meanwhile, at the Elmhurst Y, campers took a weeklong journey through several countries with their “Passport to Fun”-themed Spring Break Camp.

Youth learned about Central and South American nature and art through a rainforest tour and paper maché crafts. And the international fun didn’t stop there: games like Luto de Galo from Brazil and Kabadi from South Africa celebrated cultural diversity through play. Campers also engaged in STEAM activities, learning about physics through an “egg-celent” egg drop experiment and chemistry by making homemade ice cream in a bag.

“They say Spring Break is supposed to be restful, but we traveled around the world in five days,” said Katie Trchka, School Age Manager at the Elmhurst YMCA. “We might need a nap from the jetlag!”

Empowering youth to explore their interests and expand their minds is a year-round calling at the Y—and we’re excited to continue creating unforgettable learning experiences for kids this summer. To check out everything the Y’s summer camps have to offer and to sign up, visit our website.