Frequently Asked Questions

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. 
 

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When does registration close?

Weekly camp registration closes the Monday before the camp session. For example, for camp starting on June 22, registration closes on June 15.

What is the cost of day camp?

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

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

A deposit of $25 per week per camper is due upon registration. Payments are drafted on the Monday two weeks before each camp session. For example, for camp starting on June 22, payment will be drafted on June 8.

How do I register?
  • To register for summer day camp, you will need to log in to your YMCA account or create a new YMCA account. On your first login, you'll create your new account by clicking "Need an Account? Start Here" and following the onscreen instructions. It's as simple as that!

  • Once you are logged in, use the “Register for Programs” button

  • Ensure your current location is set to “All Locations” as many camps take place away from our branches. This adjustment will enable you to see all our offerings!

  • Select “Summer Day Camp” from the categories and then select your region, you can register for any camps that your child is eligible for

  • If you need additional support or want to learn more about our CRM, visit our online support center. You may also contact our Registration Team via email at registration@seattleymca.org or call 206-382-4927 option 4, then option 2. Our registration team is available Monday through Friday from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm.

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

We're excited to share that our new registration system does not have the challenges that our previous system had with summer birthdays! If you are unable to register for a camp that you believe your child is old enough to attend, please call our registration team at 206-382-4927 option 4, then option 2. They are available Monday through Friday from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm.

  • Kids on Their Way Camp: Due to licensing, kids must be five by the first day of their camp session to participate, even if they are entering kindergarten in the fall. 
  • Minis Camp: Kids must be three years old and potty trained or wearing pull-ups and close to accident-free by the first day of camp they attend. 

 

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?

The Y is committed to ensuring all families access quality and enriching youth programs. We accept Working Connections Child Care (WCCC) and many other subsidies at most Discovery and Kids on Their Way Camp locations.  

Please visit our support page to learn more about financial assistance.

Current Before and After-School Enrichment (BASE) and Early Education families who receive financial assistance will need to reapply for summer programs. 

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

Yes, most of our Kids on Their Way and Discovery Camp programs accept third-party subsidies.

  • We cannot accept subsidies for payment for any other camp types based on licensing requirements

For more information on Working Connections Child Care (WCCC), the 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 option 4, then option 2.

What is your cancellation or change policy?

We’ve updated our cancellation policy for 2026. Key details are below. Read the full policy here

  • Cancellations must be submitted by May 1 to receive a refund of all payments minus the deposit. After May 1, no refunds are available. 
  • Deposits for YMCA Summer Day Camp are non-refundable, but may be transferred to another Day Camp program through June 1 based on availability.
  • All cancellation and change requests must be submitted using the official Day Camp Cancellation & Change Form
What should I do if my membership or financial assistance pricing was not applied correctly?

If you missed entering a financial assistance coupon code during registration, or if you're unsure whether any other discount your family qualifies for was applied correctly, please email our Registration Team at registration@seattleymca.org

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.

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 the 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.

My child will need additional support during day camp, who can I contact about accommodations?

Our Youth Program Support team is here to work with all families and youth who may need additional support during day camp. Please reach out to youthsupport@seattleymca.org with any accommodation questions or needs.
 

Does my child have to be potty trained to join day camp?

Yes, we require all campers to be potty trained when attending day camp, with the exception of Minis Camp, which has a separate policy listed below.

Per program guidelines, camp staff are unable to assist campers in the bathroom or with changing in the event of an accident. Should your child require accommodations related to bathroom use, please reach out to our Youth Program support team at youthsupport@seattleymca.org.

For children to attend our preschool Minis Camp, they must be wearing pull-ups and close to accident-free. If you have questions about your child's readiness, please email us at youthsupport@seattleymca.org.

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

Loads of great details about summer day camp will be available in the online Participant Guide in the weeks leading up to camp. More details about your specific camp will also be emailed on the Thursday before 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 >>

What does a typical day of camp look like?
Where can I find more details about Camp Orkila's Day Camp?

Find more details on Camp Orkila's Day Camp here.

Who can I contact with registration questions?

Please email us at registration@seattleymca.org or call 206-382-4927 option 4, then option 2. Our registration team is available Monday through Friday from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm.

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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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