Last updated: July 2, 2021, at 11:18 a.m. PT
Originally published: March 11, 2021, at 10:34 a.m. PT
We’re sure you have tons of questions about this summer, and we’ve done our best to answer them below. Read about our planned safety protocols, cancellation policy, and more.
Registration, Payment, Paperwork, & Other Logistics
When does registration open for Y Summer Day Camp?
Registration for Y Summer Day Camp opens Saturday, March 20 at 6:00 am.
When does registration close?
Registration closes weekly at the end of day on Wednesday for the following week of camp.
What is the cost of Y Day Camp?
The Y is committed to ensuring all families have access to quality and enriching camp programs. We accept Working Connections Child Care (WCCC) subsidy at many locations. In addition, the Y provides financial assistance and a sliding fee schedule. Please complete the Affordable for All Day Camp Income Acknowledgment Form to learn more about scholarships or financial assistance. Current Y LEAP Academy and Early Education families need to apply for this summer as well. Our staff we be in contact with you within three business days once the form is received.
The cost of camp varies by type. A deposit of $15 per week, per camper is due upon registration. YMCA facility members receive a discount on the weekly camp fee. Payments draft weekly on the Saturday prior to each camp week.
Kids on their Way Camp (Entering Kindergarten) - $275 FM or $325 CM
Outdoor Day Camp (Grades 1 to 5) - $275 FM or $325 CM
Discovery Camp (Grades 1 to 5) - $275 FM or $325 CM
Peak Camp (Grades 6 to 8) - $300 FM or $350 CM
Camp in a Box (Grades K to 5) - $85 FM or $100 CM
Do I qualify for Facility Member pricing if my membership is on hold while facilities are closed or not up to full operations?
You must be an active member to qualify for Facility Member pricing. If you would like to remove your hold status, please contact us.
What are the hours of day camp?
Y Day Camp hours are 7:30 am - 5:30 pm, Monday to Friday. The camp day runs from 9:00 am - 4:00 pm with extended camp offering supervised activities and structured programs before camp hours starting at 7:30am and after camp hours until 5:30pm. This is included for free in your camp fee.
Will camp fill quickly?
We do have limited capacity and locations, so we ask that you register promptly to secure a spot if you need care and services. If your chosen camp location is full, we encourage you to join the wait list and look at nearby locations. You can be on a wait list and registered for an alternative location.
Will you provide transportation to camp locations from branches or centralized locations?
Unfortunately, we will not be able to transport campers from other locations. You will need to drop off and pick up from the location you have selected.
What is your cancellation or change policy?
For cancellations, changes, or transfers, we require written notice via this form by Wednesday at 12:00 pm prior to the start of the session week. Deposits are non-refundable and may be non-transferable. The Y reserves the right to charge a $25 fee for multiple registration changes. No refunds or credits will be given for absences, withdrawals, disciplinary suspensions, or removal of a camper.
Day Camp Policies:
Do I need to fill out any additional paperwork for Y Summer Day Camp?
Yes, we have partnered with PLAYERSPACE as your summer day camp communication and paperwork management system. In the spring, you will receive an email from PLAYERSPACE giving you access to your Parent Center where you can complete required forms and waivers, including immunization records, update emergency contact and health history information, and upload photos for child(ren) and parent/guardians. You must complete this paperwork before your child(ren) can attend Y Day Camp programs. We estimate this work will take about 30 minutes.
Who can I contact with registration questions?
Please email us at registration@seattleymca.org or call us at 206-382-4927. Our registration team is available between the hours of 7:00 am and 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday.
Health & Safety
The Y has been safely operating camps and child care programs since March of 2020. We follow health and safety protocols based on recommendations from the American Camp Association, YMCA of the USA, and those of our local, state, and federal government agencies. The guidance frequently changes, and we adjust and adapt our protocols to match current recommendations from the Washington State Department of Health and Department of Children, Youth, and Families.
How will you keep kids and staff safe a camp?
- We will take temperature and do health attestations of all Y Day Camp staff each day in alignment with CDC guidance.
- We will take the temperatures and do health attestations of campers prior to entry each day in alignment with CDC guidance.
- All staff and campers are required to wear masks.
- Campers will wash hands upon arriving at camp, before and after lunch, before and after going outside, and at other times during the day.
- Hand sanitizer will be used to supplement hand washing, as needed.
- We will frequently disinfect high-touch, high-traffic areas and provide a daily, overnight enhanced cleaning.
- Activity areas will be cleaned in between groups.
Are masks required at camp?
The Governor's Office has issued a mandate for all youth 5 and older to wear face coverings. Campers are welcome, and encouraged, to bring their own masks that express their personality and fit them comfortably. Please be sure to label them with their name and consider packing two so they can switch them after lots of active play.
What are the group sizes? Who will my child be grouped with?
Children are typically grouped into circles by the grade they are entering in the next school year, not to exceed 15 people including their Y counselor. Camp staff will work to maintain the same circles from week to week as well as accommodate special requests if possible.
Will activities be limited this summer?
All camp activities will be fun and engaging but modified to respect physical distancing guidelines. No equipment will be passed from person to person and there will be no all-camp group activities. While campers will remain with circles, activities will be more individually focused including exploration rotations, physical activity and small group games, arts & crafts, and more. Campers will be outdoors or in open, well-ventilated areas. Our daily assemblies and lunchtimes will be modified to respect physical distancing.
We will not be offering traditional field trips this year. Instead of transporting kids to locations near and far, we will bring the field trips to them with specialized enrichment activities, and water and wheel days! Some kids may also go on walking trips with their small groups to nearby parks, nature trails, and more.
What can I expect at drop-off?
Drop-off and pick-up will be outside. Look for signs to direct you to the right place. Y staff will greet you outside when you arrive and when you come to pick up your child. We ask that families do not to enter the building or program space.
What should my child bring to camp?
- An extra pair of clothing (recommended, but not always needed)
- A swimsuit and towel for water play activities.
- Lunch (this may be provided by the local school district and you will receive more info before the first day of camp)
- A refillable water bottle.
- A book to read during literacy time.
- Please pack all items in a backpack.
What should my child wear to camp?
Please dress your child in comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing for gym games and outside time, and in closed-toe shoes
