WEEKLY THEMES

What’s Included in Our YMCA Summer Camp Registration?
Day trips during our summer camps are always free unless otherwise noted. Every child registered for YMCA summer camp receives an exclusive camp t-shirt that must be worn on trip days. Additional camp t-shirts may be purchased at the cost of $10 each. We have an indoor heated pool on-site, and parents are given a swimming schedule according to their child’s camp. Campers must have a swimsuit, swim cap, towel, change of clothes, rubber-soled shoes, and a plastic bag for their wet clothing. Breakfast, lunch, and an afternoon snack are served daily to our campers. In addition to summer camps, we also offer day and sports camps, along with before-and-after camp care. 

What Are the Benefits of Attending YMCA Summer Camps?
Summer camp allows children the opportunity to encounter a new environment away from the creature comforts of home. After attending summer camp, you may be pleasantly surprised to discover your child or teenager feels more independent, confident, and self-assured thanks to an expanded skillset. Summer camp is where tomorrow’s leaders are molded. It’s a magical place filled with wonderment, curiosity, and creativity. Campers find themselves whisked away from distracting devices and immersed in nature in a setting that fosters decision-making and teamwork. Be sure to check out our blog “Here’s Why Summer Camp Is Great for Children” to ease any uncertainties you may have about this decision. If it’s your child’s first time going away to summer camp, be sure to check out photos and videos from our YMCA summer camps on our Facebook page, so you both know what to expect!

How Will I Know If My Child Is Ready for Summer Camp?
Are you wondering how you will know when your child is ready for summer camp? The first time away from home can be fraught with uncertainty and homesickness, regardless of your child’s age. No parent wants to send their child away before they’re emotionally and physically ready for such independence. The first question to ask is how old is your child? We typically don’t suggest sending children under the age of 7 away for summer camp. However, you may wish to explore our day camps to prepare them for the camp transition. How does your child cope with overnight stays with friends or relatives? An overnight at Grandma’s may be in order before you attempt a sleepaway camp. Does your child seem enthusiastic about summer camp, or does it feel like you’re trying to talk them into it? For the best results, it’s important that you ensure your child feels excited about going away to summer camp. Check out our blog “How to Tell If Your Child Is Ready for Camp” for more useful tips on opening up the dialogue about summer camp with your children.

How Do I Register My Children for YMCA Summer Camps?
The Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges makes it easy to register your children online! If you do not have an online account set up yet, go to activenet and create one. Please Note: Your child must have a valid YMCA membership at the time of registration and while attending summer camp to receive the membership rate. If your child does not have a membership when camp starts and during the time they’re away at camp, the fees will be adjusted to our community member rate. You must register online to guarantee a spot.

A $10 down payment per week of camp is also due at the time of registration to make it complete. Down payments are non-refundable and non-transferable. The camp balance is due by May 15, or your child’s spot will be opened to the waitlist and your deposit forfeited. Any changes made within 30 days of the start of camp will incur a $50 charge. Any camp registration within 30 days of camp requires FULL payment at the time of registration. We do offer financial assistance for families on a tight budget. Please download our Financial Assistance Application to see if you qualify for financial assistance.

How Do You Select Your Staff at YMCA Summer Camps?
We carefully select and screen caring role models who demonstrate a passion for developing confidence and good character in youth.  The Y maintains a commitment to a recruiting process that includes comprehensive training and background checks.  A large percentage of our lead staff are year-round employees with many years of experience and training.

At the Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges, we carefully select and screen caring role models who demonstrate a passion for developing confidence and good character in youths. The Y maintains a commitment to a recruiting process that includes comprehensive training and background checks. A large percentage of our lead staff are year-round employees with many years of experience and training.

Contact Us for More Info on YMCA Summer Camp Registration
The YMCA is a 501(c)(3) non-profit social services organization dedicated to youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. The Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges is a New Jersey affiliate of the YMCA serving individuals and families across the state with branches in East Orange, Wayne, Fairview Lake, and more. Please reach out to us with any questions or concerns you may have regarding our summer camp registration process, and a member of our friendly staff would be more than happy to assist you!