Bay 'y' Winter Camps Surges

Total enrollment in the day camps spread over three weeks is up nearly 43 percent from last year

, rising from 343 to 489 kids.

The first week saw a 70 percent uptick.

Winter camp costs range from $125 to $200 per week, with discounts given to YMCA members.

Officials say the reasons include expanded offerings and an economy that has improved from last year.

New camps included ice skating, soccer, basketball, gymnastics, laser tag and an On the Move traveling camp for younger children, which includes a new Microsoft training day at the Microsoft store.

Quality, affordability and safety have always been at the forefront of our YMCA Camp programs, said spokeswoman Rebecca Kelley, adding that no child has been turned away due to lack of financial ability in the 50-year history of the South Bay Y. Parents unable to pay for camp are provided assistance, though less parents required assistance this year than last year.

Camp enrollment varies from 10 to 50 kids, according to Camp Director Ed Stanfield.

All camp workers are YMCA licensed, have their backgrounds checked and are American Camping Association certified.

Its a safe place for parents to have their kids be when the parents are at work, Stanfield said. It also keeps kids active and away from the TV.

Ten-year-old Kianna Chavez from Eastlake Elementary said the camp was a nice change from staying home last winter break.

Kianna enrolled in ice skating camp during for the first two weeks and laser tag during third week; she had no previous experience with either activity.

When asked what she liked best, she said, Being able to experience new things, hang out with your friends and learn. You get to do a lot.

Winter camps run through Jan. 7, officials said. Select one-day camps are also available on Jan. 10.

by: monster energy

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