Every parent has been there at one point or another – a snow storm hits and the kids have an unexpected snow day. You know your boss still expects you to come in regardless of the weather and now you have to find someone to watch over the kids, but never fear – La Porte County Family YMCA offers a School’s Out Day Camp on days that school is not in session in La Porte or Michigan City!
At School’s Out Day Camp, and Summer Adventure Camp, all school age children can enjoy learning and being outside of school while making memories that are sure to last them a lifetime. Activities include swimming, gym time, crafts, games, STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) activities, and age-appropriate exercise classes.
During school break in Summer Adventure Camp, plenty of outside time is scheduled at the Y’s Andrew Avenue Outdoor Center in addition to a weekly field trip. Summer Adventure and School’s Out Day Camps help to teach young people to form healthy habits, develop many skills, and build strong relationships.
“We believe our day camps are an invaluable resource to families in our community,” said Michelle Shirk, Development Director for the La Porte County Family YMCA. It’s not just the community that relies on these services either. Shirk also depends on the camp's services.
“As a working parent myself, I really appreciate the fact that I don't have to worry when I receive notice of a school cancellation," stated Shirk. "I know that my daughter will spend her day surrounded by friends in a fun, safe environment while I do the things I need to do."
School Age Director Sandy Stefanko, who has been with the La Porte County Family YMCA for more than 16 years and works with the children that attend camp, recently asked Winter Break campers to share their thoughts about the Y based off their direct experiences.
Here’s what they had to say:
"The Y is important because here you can learn while having fun. They teach us to be kind." -Noah
"I love to go swimming. People love to come to the Y." -Carson
"The Y is important to me because I have been a part of it for my whole life and because I have Ms. Sandy/Frenchie." -Bailey
"It is a place where I can play with everyone and have fun with my friends. Camp is my favorite because we get to do a lot and learn a lot of different things." -Evelyn
"The Y means fun. What I like the most about the Y is camp because I get to go into the woods and explore nature. Swimming is the best part of all camp activities." -Tia
"The Y is important because there is a big space here for the kids to use, and to help parents when they have to work." -Ross
"The Y is a great place because you can always find something to do and it is a safe place for the kids to hang out." -LaShawn
"My favorite part about the Y is swimming and arts and crafts and all the camps. And Frenchie." -Allie
La Porte Family YMCA’s School's Out Day Camp runs from 6:30 am to 6 pm at the Y's La Porte and Michigan City Elston branches. Scheduled dates for the remainder of the year include February 19th (La Porte only), March 12th (La Porte only), March 30th, and April 2nd through 6th, (plus any date that school is cancelled for the day due to inclement weather). For more information please contact Sandy Stefanko at (219) 325-9622 or sstefanko@lpymca.org.