Find Your Answers

We know you have lots of questions about summer day camp and we’ve done our best to answer them. Read about our planned safety protocols, cancellation policy, and other frequently asked questions below.
 

Quick Links

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I need help accessing my account, what do I do?

Please visit our support hub to get help accessing your account. 

My child has a summer birthday and I'm having trouble signing up, what do I do?

If your child has a summer birthday after June 26 and is graduating into a new program this year, you may need an age override from our registration team to get signed up. Please call (206) 382-5022 and press three if you need support.

For example, if you child is turning six in August and entering first grade in the fall, you may need an override to sign them up for Outdoor Day Camp. 

Due to licensing, kids must be five to participate in Discovery Camp even if they are entering kindergarten in the fall. 

I'm getting an error message about my credit card expiration date, what do I do?

The expiration date on your chosen payment method must be valid through your child’s last participation date in day camp.

Try another form of payment or, if needed, YMCA staff can help with an override. Please call (206) 382-5022 and press three if you need support.  

How do I know what my billing method is for weekly payments?

The billing method for weekly payments will be the same billing method as was used to pay deposits at the time of enrollment. You can change your billing method at any time by following the instructions here.

What is the cost of day camp?

The cost of camp varies by program type. Learn more about programs here >>

Y members save an average of $50/week on camp fees and have early access to registration. Learn more about becoming a member of the Y >>

Payments draft weekly on Saturday two weeks prior to each camp session. A deposit of $15 per week, per camper is due upon registration.

What are the days and hours of day camp?

Days and hours vary by program type and location. Learn more here >>

Do you offer financial assistance?

Yes, the Y is committed to ensuring all families have access to quality and enriching camp programs. The Y provides financial assistance and a sliding fee schedule.

Please complete this short two minute form to learn more about financial assistance. Our staff we be in contact with you within 3-5 business days once the form is received. 

Can I use a third-party subsidy to help pay for day camp?

Yes, many of our camps accept third-party subsidies.

For more information on Working Connections Child Care (WCCC), City of Seattle Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), or other third-party subsidy programs, please email us at registration@seattleymca.org or call (206) 382-4927.

Is there a waiting list option if my preferred day camp is full?

From registration opening on March 1 through May 31, waiting lists will be open for all day camps once capacity is met. 

Cancellations will be processed by our registration team as they are received. When a spot becomes available due to a cancellation, the first participant on the waiting list will be contacted and will have two business days to accept the offered spot. If a participant does not respond, they will be removed from the waiting list and the spot will be offered to the next participant in line.

At the end of the day on May 31, all waiting lists will be dissolved. From this point forward, as cancellations are processed, spots will open immediately for registration on the website. Keep in mind that cancellations are due 12 days prior to the start of each weekly day camp session, so we expect most spots to become available during this window.  

When does registration close?

Weekly camp registration closes on the Wednesday prior to the camp session at 5:00 pm. For example, for camp starting on July 10, registration would close on July 5 at 5:00 pm.

What is your cancellation or change policy?

For cancellations, changes, or transfers, we require written notice via this form by end of day on Wednesday, 12 days prior to the start of the session week. For example, for camp starting on July 10, cancellations must be made by June 28.

Camp deposits are non-refundable and may not be transferred to account balances except for other camp programs. 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.

Failure to complete requirements for attendance, including paperwork and payment, that result in days missed from camp will not be refunded or credited.

How do I make a payment on my account?

Please follow these instructions on how to make a payment on your account. 

How can I view my child's summer camp schedule?

Please use this helpful guide to access and view your family's program schedule.

What happens if there are school schedule changes from snow or strike days?

We recognize that these schedules are ever evolving.  We will adjust camp program dates and fees if needed and communicate any changes with you. Thanks for your patience and flexibility.

Do I need to fill out any additional paperwork for day camp?

Yes. We have partnered with ePACT as your day camp communication and paperwork management system. In the spring, you will receive an email from ePACT giving you access to complete required forms and waivers, including immunization records, update emergency contact and health history information, and upload photos for children and parents and/or guardians. You must complete this paperwork before your child can attend day camp programs. This usually takes about 20-30 minutes.

Failure to complete requirements for attendance, including paperwork and payment, that result in days missed from camp will not be refunded or credited.

How many staff will be with my child?

The YMCA of Greater Seattle camp programs follow the supervision guidelines of the Washington State Department of Children, Youth and Families (DCYF) and American Camping Association (ACA).

  • Ages 3-5 years: 1 counselor per 10 campers
  • Ages 6-12 years: 1 counselor per 12 campers
  • Ages 13+ years:1 counselor per 15 campers

Campers are assigned to small groups and a camp counselor each week. Camp staff regularly count campers and conduct name to face safety checks.

Where do I drop-off? How do I contact my camp leaders?

Find loads of great details about your camp in the Participant Guide. More details about your specific camp will also be emailed on the Thursday prior to each week of camp.

Does day camp include lunch or snacks?

We provide a morning and afternoon snack each day of camp but we do not provide lunch. Learn more about food at camp here >>

There are some day camp locations that partner with summer lunch programs. Our team will communicate with families signed up at these locations once details are finalized.

What should my child bring to day camp each day?

We know planning for day camp can be challenging so we have provided a handy list of essential items to bring (and what not to bring) plus a few other helpful hints to make it easier! Read more here >>

Who can I contact with registration questions?

Please email us at registration@seattleymca.org or call (206) 382-5022 and press 3. Our registration team is available between the hours of 7:00 am–5:00 pm, Monday–Friday.

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Great Summers Start at the Y

Join the Y

The Y is where families thrive, communities come together, and whole person health is achieved - for all. Join today and enjoy discounted members-only rates for day camp, swim lessons, and sports!

Overnight Camp

Camp Colman and Camp Orkila offer kids and teens the chance to explore their individuality, become a part of their own community, and enjoy outdoor experiences like archery, rock climbing, and s’mores over the campfire.

Teen Outdoor Expeditions

Boys & Girls Outdoor Leadership Development expeditions inspire youth ages 11 to 18 to be their most courageous and confident selves as they learn new skills, make lifelong friends, and run towards adventure.

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