Summer Adventures: Unforgettable Experiences at the Y
By Danette Connors, Chief Learning Officer, YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago
Springtime is a time for spring breaks, baseball and soccer for kids, but for parents, it can be a season of planning and preparation for the summer. As the school year winds down, parents often seek ways to keep their children happy, engaged, and active during the summer months.
Social psychologist Jonathan Haidt highlights the importance of free play in his book, The Anxious Generation. He discusses how modern parenting can sometimes limit children’s ability to develop resilience and independence. Haidt emphasizes that free play is essential for building social skills, problem-solving abilities, and emotional regulation. He recommends that children spend much of their free time with friends, and suggests that afterschool programs and camps, especially sleepaway camps, are excellent opportunities for kids to form friendships and bond over outdoor activities.
Research supports the benefits of camp experiences. Studies have shown that spending time outdoors in natural environments can significantly improve mental health by reducing stress and anxiety, boosting mood, and enhancing focus and attention.
At the YMCA of Metro Chicago, we bring these research-based benefits to life through our camps. Welcome to the ultimate playground!
At the YMCA of Metro Chicago, we believe in the Power of Play and the magic of making memories. Our camps are designed to be a safe, supportive, and super fun environment where kids and families can thrive all summer long. Whether it’s our summer camp (day camp), overnight camp, or family camp, every moment at the Y is a chance to grow, explore, and create lifelong friendships.
Summer Camp: A World of Daily Adventures
Our summer camps offer nearly all the benefits of overnight camp – new outdoor experiences, skill-building, and lasting friendships – while allowing campers to return home each afternoon. From arts and crafts to sports and games, every day is a new adventure. Campers can dive into Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math (STEAM) activities that challenge and inspire. Plus, our dedicated staff ensures that every child feels included and supported.
Overnight Camp: Memories Under the Stars
Located in picturesque settings, our overnight camps provide a full immersion into the camp experience. Campers enjoy outdoor adventures, from hiking and canoeing to campfires and stargazing. These experiences not only foster a love for nature but also help kids develop resilience, independence, and social skills. Many campers return year after year, building friendships that last a lifetime.
Family Camp: Bonding and Fun for All Ages
Family camps at the Y offer a unique opportunity for families to bond while experiencing everything our camps have to offer. Spending time together in beautiful surroundings, exploring new adventures, and forming friendships with other families lead to memories that will last a lifetime. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a week-long retreat, family camp is a chance to unplug and reconnect with loved ones.
The Importance of Outdoor Experiences
Outdoor experiences are especially crucial for youth development. They provide a respite from daily stressors and a positive sense of belonging. According to a study by the American Camp Association, many parents reported that their children returned from camp with deeper friendships and a willingness to try new things. At the Y, we believe every child deserves the chance to experience the magic of camp.
Camper Stories: Lifelong Memories and Friendships
Meet Emma, a day camper who discovered her love for painting at the Y. “I never thought I could create something so beautiful,” she says. “Camp gave me the confidence to try new things and make new friends.”
Then there’s Jake, an overnight camper who conquered his fear of heights on the climbing wall. “I was so scared at first, but my friends cheered me on,” he recalls. “When I reached the top, I felt like I could do anything!”
And let’s not forget the Johnson family, who attended family camp for the first time last summer. “We had the best time exploring nature and playing games together,” says Mrs. Johnson. “It was a great way to bond and make new friends.”
Join the Fun!
Don’t miss out on the summer of a lifetime! Our camps fill up fast, so grab your spot and get ready to jump into a world of fun and creative exploration. By joining our camps, your child will not only have a blast but also reap the benefits of outdoor play and social interaction, as highlighted by research. We can’t wait to see how your child discovers their favorite ways to play, grow, and thrive all summer long!
With over 20 years of experience in the social-service field, Danette Connors is a visionary leader and relationship-builder, specializing in strategic program growth to ensure equitable resources for individuals and families. As the Chief Learning Officer at the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago since 2023, she oversees youth, teen, and adult education, enrichment, and development programs, including early learning, before- and after-school care, and camp programs.