[gallery columns="4" ids="22202,22203,22204,22205"]

This summer, YMCA of Beaufort County’s day camp program is offering kids the best summer ever through an enriching and learning experience to help kids get more out of the summer break – more learning, more exploration and more achievement. Through a mix of fun and educational activities aimed at improving well-being, kids will try new adventures, learn and master new skills, share and trade interests with friends, and get plenty of high-fives along the way.

Working with SEER Analytics to find out how camp benefits kids, the Y recently surveyed nearly 30,000 parents and caregivers with kids enrolled in camp at nearly 190 Y associations nationwide. Ninety-two percent of parents/caregivers said they agreed the Y’s day camp program helped kids make new friends. In addition, 83 percent said they agreed the program helped their kids discover what they can achieve, while 87 percent agreed their child felt a sense of belonging at their Y camp.

“At the Y, we know that when kids are given an opportunity to accomplish things, make friends and feel like they belong, they are comfortable expressing individuality and feel more confident, connected and supported,” says Kaylin Garst, YMCA Operations Director. “We are focusing on these youth development areas to ensure that kids in our day 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 helping kids grow socially, emotionally, cognitively and physically. In partnership with Beaufort County School District and Jasper County School District, the day camps will also focus on academic enrichment in literacy and mathematics using online education. The Y has also partnered with Beaufort County Library so that campers have more access to summer reading.

As a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community through youth development, the Y offers so much more than a place to play and have fun. Through a holistic approach to youth development, the Y nurtures the potential of children and teens from birth to career to help them achieve in school and life. Through day camp and other youth development programs, the Y is working to keep kids active and address gaps in learning when school is not in session.

YMCA summer camp is offered at 8 site locations across Beaufort and Jasper counties. To learn more about the YMCA of Beaufort County’s day camp program and to find a site location closest to your work or home visit the Y website, www.ymcabeaufortcounty.com, or call the Y at 843-522-9622. Summer camp registration begins for YMCA members on April 27 and for non-members on May 1.