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CHICAGO (April 18, 2025)—In a world where kids are constantly connected to screens, YMCA Summer Camps provide a rare and essential opportunity to unplug, build independence, and rediscover the joy of face-to-face connection. And it’s not just kids who benefit—camp also gives parents the chance to step back, trust the process, and see their children thrive without constant supervision.
Despite their digital habits, kids today crave real-world connection. A recent study revealed that 90% of children aged 6 to 12 want more friendships, highlighting a strong yearning for in-person interactions.
At more than 235 YMCA Summer Camp locations across 44 states, children swap screens for adventure, technology for teamwork, and notifications for nature. Through hands-on activities, outdoor exploration, and team challenges, campers gain confidence, resilience, and friendships that last a lifetime.
“YMCA Summer Camp shows us that kids truly want to disconnect from technology and reconnect with each other,” said Laura Mahan, Director of Summer Camp Strategy at YMCA of the USA. “Camp gives them the space to grow, build character, and develop independence in a way that’s hard to replicate anywhere else.”
While summer camp is transformative for children, it is just as valuable for parents. It provides the chance to allow kids to build independence in a safe, structured environment, while parents recharge—knowing their children are growing, learning, and thriving.
This summer, YMCA Summer Camps continue their long-standing tradition of helping families embrace balance, connection, and growth.
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About the Y
Driven by its founding mission, the Y has served as a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community for more than 175 years. The Y empowers everyone, no matter who they are or where they’re from, by ensuring access to resources, relationships, and opportunities for all to learn, grow and thrive. By bringing together people from different backgrounds, perspectives and generations, the Y’s goal is to improve overall health and well-being, ignite youth empowerment and demonstrate the importance of connections in and across 10,000 communities nationwide. Learn more at ymca.org.