The YMCA of Greater Charlotte offers a variety of camps across its many branches that will keep kids active throughout the summer and help stimulate their minds. Photos courtesy of YMCA of Greater Charlotte
Thanks to The Village People, everyone knows it’s fun to stay at the YMCA. But did you know it’s even more fun to attend their summer camps?
YMCA branches across the region are offering students from elementary to high school the opportunity to dip their toes into almost any activity. From cheerleading and babysitting to circus and triathlon training, campers will find many ways to have a good time.
The YMCA has tons of summer camps choose from, but here are five that stand out:
Classic Arcade Games Live!
This isn’t your typical video game camp. Why? There are no screens. Instead, campers will go on Yoshi egg hunts, compete in a Mario coin jump and play life-size arcade games. They’ll also learn how to create a storyline for a video game through crafts, games and activities.
• Ages: Rising third- to fifth-graders
• Time: 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. June 10 to 14
• Place: Hawk Ridge Elementary
• Price: $180 for members; $235 for others
Babysitter Certification Camp
Before becoming a babysitter and raking in all that cash, it’s important to be properly trained. Campers will learn essential childcare skills, work with preschoolers and become certified in CPR, first aid and babysitting.
• Ages: Rising sixth- to 10th-graders
• Time: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. June 24 to 28, July 15 to 19 and July 29 to Aug. 2
• Place: Harris YMCA
• Price: $260 for members; $335 for others
Circus Camp
Most kids have dreamt of running away from home to join the circus at least once or twice. Thanks to this camp, they don’t have to. Campers will learn tumbling, clowning, juggling, stilt walking, pogoing and the basics of aerial arts (rope, hoop, silks) under the guidance of experienced staff. There will even be an exhibition with circus props, make-up and costumes for families at the end of the week.
• Ages: 6 to 12 years old
• Time: 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. June 17 to 21, July 15 to 19, July 29 to Aug. 2 and Aug. 12 to 16
• Place: Harris YMCA
• Price: $175 for members; $225 for others
Triathlon Camp
Do you know a budding triathlete? This camp gives kids the opportunity to train for the swim, bike and run portions of a triathlon, and make the rest of us look lazy in the process. They’ll learn about the equipment needed, how to set up transition areas and other components of the race. Campers must be green band swimmers and bring their own bikes and helmets.
• Ages: Rising second- to seventh-graders
• Time: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. June 17 to 21 and July 22 to 26
• Place: Brace YMCA, Hemby Center
• Price: $190 for members; $265 for others
Survivor Camp
Similar to the reality TV show, “Survivor,” campers will test their limits to see if they can outwit, outplay and outlast their opponents. They’ll rely on their strengths and learn how to improve their skills while working individually and in teams to complete multiple challenges.
• Ages: Rising first- to third-graders
• Time: 1:30 to 5:30 p.m. July 15 to 19
• Place: Morrison YMCA
• Price: $180 for members; $235 for others
Want to register?
Visit www.ymcacharlotte.org/camps/ to register for summer camps with the YMCA of Greater Charlotte or download the organization’s camp guide.