As a full-time working mom with a 3rd grader, summer camp is a necessity. Summer camp is always a challenge in terms of finding a convenient location, before and after care hours, an affordable weekly cost and availability of financial assistance. After researching some of the camps offered in the area, the most convenient to home only operates until 3:30 with no after care provided. My 2nd choice offers the convenient location, however, it is cost prohibitive. The 3rd choice is operated by the before and after care provider but the location is too far. One advantage Y membership is you can use all locations that are within the same network and Ys offer income-based financial assistance.
How I Prepared for Summer Camp Registration
- Started the process early, February is ideal. I know it sounds early but as the saying goes “the early bird catches the worm”.
- If needed apply for financial aid sooner than later. The Y offers income-based assistance and you also save on the weekly rate if you are a member. The location I selected allowed a 3-month membership only to take advantage of the reduced camp weekly cost for members.
- Registered for each of the weeks needed. The Y requires a registration deposit for each week.
Some of the benefits of choosing this location are before and after care hours at no additional charge. A discount for the weekly cost due to income-based financial aid and the ability to register as a member for only three months.