Camps return, serving some fun
The pandemic put a damper on many summer traditions in 2020, including camp. Meant to occupy kids in fun, creative and physical ways during the balmy summer months, camp also serves as a childcare solution for working parents. Additionally, camp is a place where memories are made and new friendships and experiences are had.
This year, several camps that decided not to operate last summer for pandemic-related reasons, will be back on track with offering their regularly scheduled program offerings. Whether your child is ready for overnight camp or at an age that’s better suited for day camp, there are offerings to satisfy almost any interest. Regardless of focus or theme, there is one thing they all have in common: they provide an opportunity for kids to get moving outdoors all summer long!
While camp traditions can continue carrying on again, there will likely be protocols in place at all camps to ensure your child’s safety. Given the past year’s safe distancing and masking practices that children have become accustomed to between school and operating in daily life, adjusting to camp safety protocols should be smooth sailing.
The YMCA of Pottstown was one camp that didn’t take place last summer and now they are in the process of working on finalizing plans to enable them to offer camp this year. While registration is anticipated in a few weeks at the Pottstown location, registration is currently open for YMCA’s Camp Speers that’s located in the Poconos and offers overnight camp experiences for kids of all ages.
If you have a child with special needs, YMCA’s Dragonfly Forest specialty camp at Camp Speers is a traditional overnight program for kids with Autism, 22q, Asthma, Sickle Cell Disease and Hemophilia.
“It started out of the need we were hearing from our communities,” said Logan Finerfrock, Senior Team Leader at Pottstown YMCA. “There weren’t a ton of locations locally who accommodate special needs to attend a camp.”
Dragonfly Forest camp accommodates each individual campers’ medical needs.
“The beauty is the kids still get a fantastic, super fun experience and our staff and counselors are able to make sure they are meeting individual needs and have a great time,” Finerfrock said.
Camp Speers offers family camp weekends in addition to an opportunity for independent campers to experience some things in nature for the very first time.
“It’s right on a lake, so some will canoe for the first time, kayak for the first time, and sleep under the stars and see stars for the first time,” Finerfrock said.
Inclusivity is woven into the culture at the YMCA. They even have a diversion and inclusion task force dedicated to making sure they are always on par with their mission.
“Part of our mission is to be a place for all,” Finerfrock said. “We want to be a place where everyone is welcome, supported and feels a sense of belonging.”
That also goes for all of the camps they offer.
“Camp is for everybody and that means we make it accessible through financial assistance,” Finerfrock said adding that they make sure that all minority groups feel supported through their offerings, including gender, race and special needs, among others.
Some camps in and around Pottstown tend to fill up quickly due to high demand and limited space, so it’s good to be proactive and reserve a spot for your child as soon as registrations open. Camp registrations are starting to open now, so it’s best to stay tuned to your camp of choice to guarantee your child doesn’t miss out on their first pick in summer experiences.