y explorers
Y EXPLORERS IS THE SUMMER-LONG OPTION FOR SCHOOL AGE KIDS ENTERING 1ST-4TH GRADE. THE 2025 SESSION RUNS JUNE 2-AUGUST 8.
2025 REGISTRATION OPENS JANUARY 6!
WHAT’S UNIQUE ABOUT A Y SUMMER?
Taking a break from school does not mean kids' development is on vacation. Y Explorer campers enjoy a summer camp atmosphere at the Y and also take part in weekly field trips. Our days are filled with fun and educational experiences, time in our Splash Center as well as daily activities that focus on achievement, relationships and belonging. Come join us for the best summer ever!
ONLINE REGISTRATION
To Register: Select "School Age Programs" on the Y Registration Page
Required Paperwork: Upon completion of online registration process, you will receive a welcome email with a link to download and complete the Required Participant Paperwork. Email completed paperwork to dawn.nichols@bismarckymca.org WITHIN ONE WEEK OF REGISTRATION.
If you do not receive the welcome email within 24 hours of registration, please contact the School Age Program Director at dawn.nichols@bismarckymca.org or by calling 701-751-9773.
2025 Y EXPLORERS WEEKLY THEMES
June 2-6: The Y 4 - Crafting Our Core Values - Kids grow and thrive through fun activities that emphasize the core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility!
June 9-13: Space Cadets- Blast off into an amazing space themed adventure week, where campers embark on an exciting journey through the wonders of the universe!
June 16-20: Surf & Safari - Dive into a tropical adventure with a wild beach and jungle theme week, where kids explore the oceans and the rainforest!
June 23-27: H2Oasis- Make a splash with this wet and wild week, where campers dive into a world of water themed fun, enjoying everything from water sports to aquatic adventures.
June 30-July 3 (Closed July 4): Constitution Quest- Celebrate freedom and fun the week of Independence Day, where kids enjoy patriotic activities and exciting outdoor adventures with a festive theme!
July 7-11: Mission Possible - Embark on a thrilling adventures during this special theme week, where campers become secret agents, crack codes, and complete daring spy missions!
July 14-18: Eco Warriors - Join us for an eco-adventure during this exciting climate friendly theme week, where kids learn to protect the planet through fun recycling projects and green activities.
July 21-25: Full STEAM Ahead-Unleash creativity and curiosity with this thrilling education based theme week, where campers explore the exciting worlds of science, technology, engineering, art, and math through hands-on projects and interactive experiments!
July 28-August 1: Goal Getters - Get ready to score big with this awesome, active theme week, where kids engage in a variety of team sports, develop their skills, and experience the thrill of friendly competition!
August 4-8: Last Blast Summer Splash- Splash into fun during our final themed week of the summer, where campers enjoy exciting games, creative activities, and refreshing adventures all centered around water!
DAILY SCHEDULE (subject to change - please refer to weekly newsletters for updated information)
7:30-9:00am AM EXTENDED DAY
9:00-9:15am OPENING CEREMONY: camp assembly, energize activity, announcements
9:15-9:30am HUDDLE: small groups meet with counselor, discuss theme and core value for the day
9:30-10:30am PLUG IN: small groups work on various activities, skill development, games, STEM activities or Field Trips
10:30-11:30am ENERGIZE: Campers are engaged in outdoor activities including gaga ball, hiking or themed activity
12:00-1:00pm LUNCH: Campers have lunch and participate in songs, large group games (sack lunch will need to be brought from home)
1:00-2:00pm POWER UP: Campers pick activity of their choice, field trips
2:00-3:30pm PLUG IN: small groups work on various activities, skill development, games, STEM activities or field trips
3:30-3:50pm HUDDLE: small groups meet with counselor, discuss theme and core value for the day
3:50-4:00pm CLOSING CEREMONY: camp assembly, reflection activity, announcements for next day
4:00-5:30pm PM EXTENDED DAY
Breakfast and snack included; campers will need to bring a nutritious sack lunch each day.
Extended day hours included!
2025 Monthly Rate Plan
Members: $644
Non-Members: $710
Non-refundable Registration Fee due at time of registration.
Cancellations: A 30-day notice is required to withdraw from YDC programming. Families are financially responsible for tuition for the 30 day period. Program cancellations must be made through the School Age Program Director in writing using the cancellation form (click here).
LOCATION
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT CENTER (Located in the YMCA, south entrance)
1608 North Washington Street, Bismarck
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Dawn Nichols
701-751-9773
dawn.nichols@bismarckymca.org
QUICK LINKS
YDC Parent Handbook
