How summer break programs enhance your family's development
Summer is a great time for families to relax and recharge, but it’s easy to get stuck in a rabbit hole of binge-watching TV or playing video games. YMCA Summer Break programs — from day camps to licensed child care club programs — provide unique opportunities for families to grow and shine. Here are some of the advantages of participating in summer programs that helps your family’s overall development.
Create life long memories
Family memories are the best kinds of memories and we understand how important it is for you to spend quality time with your loved ones. Some ways in which you can create these priceless moments are:
- Canoeing across Clear Lake at YMCA Camp Pine Crest
- Learn how to find your way in the woods at an orienteering session at Family Camp
- Sleep under a star-filled sky in your cabin rental at YMCA Cedar Glen outdoor centre
Work together as a team enjoying activities like campfire building, rock climbing, hiking, etc.
Get off the screens and out into the world
The Government of Canada recommends that children and youth ages 5 to 17 should get at least 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity per day. For this to happen, they also need environments to be healthy, challenged and engaged.
Summer is a time when children can still be learning, more than ever, outside of the classroom. It’s important that we get them out of their homes and into new environments where they can explore new skills and experiences!
The development of important life skills like leadership and team building through Licensed Child Care Club program will help your child shine as they navigate their way out in the world.
Fight summer learning loss
A recent article stated that every summer, children forget some of what they learned during the previous school year, but now experts are warning that because of school closures and other disruptions during the COVID-19 pandemic, students will have a lot more lost learning to make up for.
Prachi Srivastava, Professor at Western University in conversation with CBC news said, “The concern in terms of actual learning-loss is real," and added that it won’t be felt in the same way by everyone. It occurs when children go without the stimulation, enrichment, and structure of a classroom environment during their break.
The simplest way to prevent this loss is by identifying engaging activities that promote physical and emotional well-being in your child’s development. For example: if you want them to improve their science skills over the summer break (and who doesn't?), sign up for a Science day camp program option at one of our Y centres where they will Take part in exploring new experiments and science activities.
Take a well-deserved break
Let’s not forget about the importance of giving yourself a break (Yes, you deserve that too). Between work and school, keeping up with housework and making sure everyone gets the care they need, it seems like the day flies by.
At YMCA, our team is experienced and trusted so that you can feel at peace knowing that your child is in a safer and kind environment.
Make new friends
Making new friends is an important part of growing up. Not only does it help children and teens develop confidence, self-esteem and social skills, but it can also keep them from feeling lonely and isolated during the summer.
If you want your child to have a positive experience with their peers during the summer months, encourage them to make friends by registering them in a Licensed Child Care Club program where children of ages 4 to 12 come to connect and grow together.
Trying new experiences helps fill those dormant school days, and gives children new ways of thinking about themselves. And who knows? They might just discover some hidden talents and passions along the way! Get started YMCA Day Camps to find a program that works for your family.
