PARENT FAQs

We understand that plans change. To cancel, please contact the Business Office.

• When cancelled by the participant, a request properly submitted 21 calendar days prior to the Monday of the week within which the program session starts will receive a full refund (minus deposit, which is non-refundable). 
• When cancelled by the participant, a request properly submitted 8-20 calendar days prior to the Monday of the week within which the program session starts will receive a 50% refund or 100% YMCA Account Credit, based on the participant's preference(minus deposit, which is non-refundable). Cancellations submitted 7 or less days in advance are ineligible for refund.

Every day at YMCA Day Camp and school day out is filled with active learning, outdoor adventures, and creative fun! A sample day might include:

• Morning circle and team-building games, plus snack!
• Arts & crafts, STEM activities, and group challenges
• Lunch and quiet rest or reading time
• Outdoor play, sports, and swimming or water activities
• Camp wide game or theme-based activity
• Closing circle and reflection and afternoon snack

Campers experience a variety of activities that build friendships, confidence, and new skills.

Our after-school days are just as exciting! They will include: 

• Afternoon snack and a get to know you circle time 
• Outside play and/or group games in the gym 
• An activity of the day. Arts and crafts, STEM, Tasty Tuesday, or group challenges 
• Homework help 

We maintain a low staff-to-child ratio, our state mandated ratio is 1:15 for school-age groups. Smaller ratios are used for swimming and some special activities like field trips. This allows for individualized attention, supervision, and a safe, supportive environment. 

Our counselors are caring, experienced role models who complete extensive YMCA and state-required training before camp begins.
All staff are CPR and First Aid certified, pass comprehensive background checks, and receive instruction in child development, safety procedures, behavior management, emergency response, and inclusive practices.
Many of our counselors return year after year, bringing enthusiasm and leadership to every day.

Yes! Families can choose individual weeks that fit their summer schedule or register for multiple weeks for a full summer of fun. Each week features a new theme and unique activities, so no two weeks are the same.

Our before and after-school programs offer full-time, part-time, and individual drop in day options.

Yes. A non-refundable deposit of $50 per week is required at the time of registration to secure your child’s spot in camp. The deposit is applied toward your total camp fee, with the remaining balance due 2 weeks before the start of the camp week. 

Absolutely. The YMCA proudly accepts Colorado Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) and other approved child care subsidies.
If you’re using CCAP, please contact our registration team (Link) before enrolling so we can ensure proper documentation and placement. Financial assistance through the YMCA is also available for qualifying families.

Please send your camper with:

• A labeled water bottle
• Nut-free lunch and any extra snacks
• Closed-toe shoes for safety
• Hat for outdoor activities
• Swimwear and towel (on swim days)
• Extra clothes if needed
• The YMCA provides 2 snacks per day and sunscreen

We encourage campers to leave valuables and toys at home. The YMCA is not responsible for lost or damaged personal items.

All YMCA camps provide Rocky Mountain Sunscreen for all campers!
Staff will remind campers to reapply throughout the day and can assist younger campers with reapplication.
You are welcome to provide child labeled bug spray if needed. This will be stored with staff.

Your child’s safety and well-being are our top priorities.
Please note all allergies or medical needs during registration and in CampDoc, our secure health information system.
Our staff are trained to recognize and respond to allergic reactions, administer medications (with parent authorization), and follow emergency procedures.
If your child has a severe allergy or specific medical plan, we’ll partner with you before camp begins to ensure accommodations are in place.

We closely monitor weather conditions daily.
In the event of lightning, extreme heat, poor air quality, or other unsafe conditions, campers are moved indoors to safe, air-conditioned spaces. Field trips and activities may be canceled or changed due to these ever changing conditions.
Indoor activities—such as games, crafts, and team challenges—are provided so the fun continues while keeping campers safe.
Outdoor time resumes once it’s safe to do so.

YMCA Day Camp and school age programs focus on positive behavior and helping each camper build character, respect, and responsibility.
Our behavior expectations are guided by the YMCA’s core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility.
If a child struggles with behavior, staff work with them through redirection, reflection, and positive reinforcement.
Families will be contacted if behavior concerns arise that require follow-up or if safety is impacted.
In rare cases of repeated or severe behavior, removal from program may occur.

We’re happy to help!
Contact your YMCA branch or email our Day Camp team — we want every family to feel confident and excited about camp this summer.