Top 10 Reasons Parents Love Sending Their Kids to YMCA Summer Camp

YMCA Staff

CHICAGO (May 1, 2025)— Summer camp isn’t just life-changing for kids; it’s a game-changer for parents, too. At YMCA Summer Camp, children unplug, explore, and build independence, while parents enjoy some unexpected benefits of their own. With more than 235 YMCA Summer Camp locations across 44 states, families nationwide are finding that camp offers rewards for everyone. 

Here are the Top 10 reasons parents love YMCA Summer Camp: 

  1. Less Screen Time, More Green Time – No more battling over screen limits; camp naturally pulls kids away from devices and into outdoor adventures. 
  2. Bye-Bye, “I’m Bored” – Say farewell to endless summer complaints! Camp keeps kids engaged with new activities and friends. 
  3. A Taste of Independence (for both of you!) – Kids learn problem-solving and confidence while parents get a break from helicopter-mode. 
  4. Social Skills Get a Boost – Camp helps kids make new friends and practice teamwork, easing social anxieties. 
  5. No Mess, No Stress – Fewer snack crumbs on the couch and abandoned art projects on the table? Yes, please! 
  6. Built-In Bedtime Bonus – After days packed with adventure, kids come home tired (the good kind!), making bedtime easier. 
  7. Character Building in Action – YMCA Summer Camp fosters resilience, responsibility, and kindness; skills that last beyond the summer. 
  8. Reconnection with Real-World Fun – Kids rediscover the joys of hands-on activities, from kayaking to campfire stories. 
  9. A Guilt-Free Parenting Break – Whether it’s catching up on work or enjoying a quiet cup of coffee, parents get a well-earned breather. 
  10. A Happier, More Confident Kid Returns Home – According to research conducted by the American Camp Association, kids return home from camp more independent, social, and ready to take on new challenges. 

“Parents tell us all the time that summer camp is just as valuable for them as it is for their kids,” said Laura Mahan, Director of Summer Camp Strategy at YMCA of the USA. “While children are building independence, character, and confidence, parents gain peace of mind knowing their kids are thriving in a safe, supportive environment.” 

YMCA Summer Camps have long been a cornerstone for families seeking growth, connection, and balance. This summer, Ys nationwide are ready to welcome campers for another season of memories and milestones. 

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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.