Clay County YMCA to offer summer camps

The Clay County YMCA is offering day camp to give kids and teens in Putnam County an adventurous, active and healthy summer. YMCA camp programs offer youth fun and unique experiences with an opportunity to explore the outdoors, meet new friends, discover new interests and create memories that last a lifetime.

Nearly 50 percent of U.S. parents say technological distractions, such as television, cell phones or video games make it difficult to maintain a healthy lifestyle for their children, according to the latest findings of the YMCA's Family Health Snapshot, a survey that gauges children's activity levels during the school year.

With more free time in summer, ensuring that kids practice healthy habits could be a greater challenge. The Y encourages parents to help their kids unplug from technology and explore all the Y's camp has to offer from May 28-Aug. 2 at Ridpath Primary School.

Registration is now open and forms can be found online at www.claycountyymca.org or by contacting 812-442-6761 a form can be mailed, faxed or emailed.

"Attending Putnam County YMCA Summer Camp is a wonderful opportunity for kids to keep their minds and bodies active," says Chelle Thomas, Camp Director Putnam County YMCA Summer Camp. "When at day camp, kids get to learn about nature, take on new responsibilities, gain independence, and develop essential social skills and new relationships. We really encourage parents to give their kids the gift of camp so that every child can benefit from the experience."

According to Nicole Fry, Executive Branch Director, there are four reasons why children and teens should attend summer camp, including healthy fun, personal growth, new friendships and memories.

The Putnam County YMCA Summer Camp offers tutoring, outdoor activities, swimming, hiking, field trips, group games, The Amazing Race, themed weeks such as Slime Time, Carnival Fun and Creativity Week and much more.

To ensure that all youth have the chance to experience camp, the Putnam County YMCA Summer Camp offers financial assistance to those in need. Camp will run Monday through Friday from 6 a.m.-6 p.m. with full time, part time and drop in rates available.

For more information, contact Nicole Fry at 812-442-6761 or by email at childcare@claycountyymca.org

About the Y

The Y is one of the nation's leading nonprofits strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Across the U.S., 2,700 Ys engage 21 million men, women and children -- regardless of age, income or background -- to nurture the potential of children and teens, improve the nation's health and well-being, and provide opportunities to give back and support neighbors. Anchored in more than 10,000 communities, the Y has the long-standing relationships and physical presence not just to promise, but to deliver, lasting personal and social change. ymca.net