SUMMER FUN AT THE YMCA: Find the per

Summer Fun AT THE YMCA

by Kelli Biandudi, photos provided by the YMCA

Whether you have a little one or a teenager, the YMCA has a camp that will give your child a summer they will never forget!

“We are looking forward to another terrific summer of camp,” says Bart Cape, Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA vice president of operations. “We were able to safely serve over 12,000 campers in the summer of 2020 with our enhanced protocols and anticipate an even stronger summer this year.”

When schools switched to virtual learning due to COVID-19, Liva Rivera says she just wanted her son, Michael, 13, to get out of the house.

“He was just home 24 hours a day and not really socializing, sitting in front of the TV playing video games,” Rivera says. “It was depressing. I just wanted him to get out of the house and be around people, so I didn’t have a whole lot of fear about it.”

Despite camp looking a little different last summer, Rivera says it was the best experience of her son’s life.

“He loved it so much he wanted to be there every single day of summer,” she says. “He came out of his shell and his confidence is through the roof. Everyone has a different perspective about all of this going on, but I felt like he was going to be just fine at the Y. And thankfully, he was.”

Rivera says her son looks forward to returning this year.

“We’re all hoping things are going to be a little bit more normal now with a lot of people starting to get the (coronavirus) vaccine, so I have no reservations about sending him back this summer,” she says. “It was an awesome experience, it really was.”

Like last summer, the Y plans on keeping extra precautions in place. Camp leaders and counselors have been trained on safety protocols based on recommendations from the American Camp Association, Centers for Disease and Control Prevention and local health officials. Camp starts June 1, 2021.

“Some families missed the experience of summer camp for their children last summer and we are already starting to see elevated registrations as we enter into the early spring,” Bart says. “Camp is such an impactful and life-changing experience for children and it will be great to see our families again soon.”

YMCA Summer Camp staff are experienced and ready for a safe, fun-filled summer adventure.

13-year-old Michael Rivera (in center dressed in black) had the best time in Y Summer Camp last year and can’t wait to return this summer.

*Photo taken when Hillsborough County mask mandate excluded children in Summer Camp programs.

Fun themed activities like “Dinosaur Day” helped boost Michael Rivera’s confidence during Y Summer Camp.

REGISTER FOR CAMP:

Register at Ys across Hillsborough and East Pasco counties here: www.tampaymca.org/programs/ camp/summer-camp

Register at Ys in Pinellas, West Pasco, Hernando and Citrus counties here: www.ymcasuncoast.org/summercamp

CARROLLWOOD CULTURAL CENTER SUMMER ARTS CAMP

4537 Lowell Road, Tampa 33618 813-922-8167; carrollwoodcenter.org/camp-activities

At the Carrollwood Cultural Center, artistic expression, belting it out, busting a move and getting into character are all encouraged! Through art, music, dance and drama, campers ages 4-10 will explore a different theme each week, while campers ages 11-13 use the theme to create an original staged production. *We are offering a 15% Early Bird Discount for registrations received by April 30, 2021. *extended care available Cost: ages 4-10: $90$230/week, ages 11-13: $260-$350/two weeks Dates/Times: M-F, May 31-Aug. 6, 9 a.m. to 3 or 4 p.m. Ages: 4-13, Coed

CARROLLWOOD DAY SCHOOL SUMMER CAMP

1515 W. Bearss Ave., Tampa 33613 and 12606 Casey Road, Tampa 33618 813-920-2288; carrollwooddayschool.org/summer-programs

Carrollwood Day School is pleased to offer both our regular day and enrichment camps this summer to age 3 through grade 8, starting June 1 and running through July 23. Additionally, CDS has created a new Educational Enrichment summer program offering the opportunity to help students get a head start for fall with mastery learning in language arts and math, research methods and forensic science.

CIRCLE C RANCH ACADEMY

6204 Interbay Blvd., Tampa 33611 813-831-8429; ccranchacademy.com

We have Summer Camp and Summer VPK available with many activities! Camp activities include horseback riding, swimming, art, sports including archery, canteen snack hut, outdoor exploration and bounce house. Come join us for all the fun outdoors!

CITY OF LARGO SUMMER CAMPS

201 Highland Ave., Largo 33770 727-587-6720; largocamps.com

Join us for City of Largo Summer Camps. From full day camps, to sports and specialty camps for PreK through high school, you’ll find the best options in Largo for your child this summer! Register today, as spots are sure to fill up. Visit LargoCamps.com for more information.

CLEARWATER COMMUNITY SAILING CENTER

1001 Gulf Blvd., Clearwater 33767 727-517-7776; clearwatercommunitysailing.org

Clearwater Community Sailing Center is the place for kids to spend summer in the fresh air and on the water. We have sailing, windsurfing and paddling camps for all experience levels. Sign up and join the fun!

EARTH IMMERSION SCUBA SUMMER CAMP

180th St., Live Oak 32060 352-641-0350; earthimmersion.com/scuba-diving-summer-camp.html

Earth Immersion is a SCUBA, adventure and outdoor education camp for teens (13-17 years old) looking for an unmatched experience exploring North Florida's crystal-clear springs. Activities include earning SCUBA certifications, snorkeling, canoeing, hiking, fishing, tubing, community service hours and learning about freshwater/marine biology. We offer 7- or 13-day overnight programs.

THE FLORIDA ACADEMY OF THE PERFORMING ARTS

Music Showcase, 402 Oakfield Drive, Brandon 33511 813-490-ARTS; faopa.org

The Florida Academy of Performing Arts offers two types of camps. Music and More camps are weekly and let campers explore instruments, singing and art. Musical theatre camps meet for 2-3 weeks offering students an opportunity to sing, memorize lines, work on character development and perform in live shows. Cost: $150-$250 Dates/Times: ages 3-6: June 1-July 16 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., grades 1-8: June 1-July 23 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Ages: age 3-grade 8, Coed

Cost: Full-time $240, half day $180 Dates/Times: June 1 – Aug. 2, Closed July 5, full day 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., half day 8 a.m. to noon Ages: 1-12, Coed

Cost: $25-$450 *limited scholarships available Dates/Times: June 1 - Aug. 10, times vary from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Ages: PreK to high school, Coed

Cost: $178-$298 Dates: June 14 – Aug. 6 Ages: 5-17, Coed

Cost: $1,850-$3,250/ session Dates: June 20 - July 31, 7- or 13-day sessions Ages: 13-17, Coed

Cost: varies Dates/Times: June – August, full and half-day options Ages: 5+, Coed

GIRLS WITH CONFIDENCE

Various locations: Lithia-Main Center, Riverview, Apollo Beach, Brandon, Tampa, Lutz 813-571-2002; girlswithconfidence.com

Girls With Confidence offers several unique, creative and fun camps for girls in grades K-12. Every camp day we focus on a new “confidence building” theme where we have meaningful discussions, activities and games and work on creative art projects and crafts. We are confident your girls will LOVE our camps. Come check out our new center located in Lithia. We have a little petting farm with goats and chickens.

HILLEL ACADEMY PRESCHOOL SUMMER CAMP

2020 W. Fletcher Ave., Tampa 33612 813-963-2242; hillelacademytampa.com

Hillel’s preschool camp will be held in our brand new state-of-the-art Early Learning Center building. This includes a large multi-purpose room, teaching kitchen and 5,000-square-foot outdoor playground. During themed weeks, campers have fun while working towards their social-emotional developmental milestones with centers, water play, hands-on activities, outdoor time and individualized attention. Cost: Half and full day, $149-$249 for early registration through March 31 Dates/Times: June 1 - Aug. 6, times vary from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Ages: 4-14, girls only

Cost: $225-$275/week (8 weeks available) Dates/Times: June 9 – July 30 Ages: 1-4 years, Coed

LASER OPS EXTREME GAMING ARCADE - (Summer Fun Activity)

6283 W. Waters Ave., Tampa 33634 813-443-6509; laserops.com

Laser Ops is a 24,000-square-foot entertainment center featuring a game arcade with more than 60 games, virtual reality gaming, tactical laser tag, archery tag and Bazooka Ball. The venue also features a large sports bar and grill, including a full liquor bar. Laser Ops is great for friends and family fun. Cost: Varies

Summer-Hours:

M-Th 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Fri. 4-11 p.m. Sat. 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sun. 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Ages: All ages, Coed

LIFE ACADEMY INC.

6520 Richies Way, Apollo Beach 33572 813-641-1922; abkidscamp.com

Life Academy emphasizes hands-on life skills lessons. Our programs and activities encourage critical thinking and problem solving. STEM, swimming, horse experience, canoeing, bike track, food forest, gardens, fishing, tennis, karate, sports, crafts, cooking and more. Campers utilize our 7-acre facility and go home sweaty, dirty and tired every day. Cost: Registration $125, full-time campers $145/ week, drop in $175/week Dates/Times: May 30 - Aug. 10, M-F 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Ages: 5-13, Coed

MARY JO’S PERFORMING ARTS ACADEMY SUMMER CAMP

15906 Mapledale Blvd., Tampa 33624 813-969-0240; mjpaa.com

The arts are a perfect avenue to allow your child to explore their creativity, tap into their imagination and discover their potential. Students will develop self-expression, build confidence, learn to work with peers, foster problem solving skills and stimulate curiosity. From classics to pop culture, your children will unfold the wonderful world of the performing arts. Cost: $125-225 Dates/Times: June-Aug., M-F, 9 a.m. to noon, 3, or 4 p.m. Ages: 3+, Coed

PRACTICALLY PIKASSO ART CAMP

1912 4th St. N., St Petersburg 33704 727-822-5204; practicallypikasso.com

Unleash your imagination, make friends and create art this summer. Full- and half-day summer camps offer a variety of fun, hands-on activities that encourage creative thinking, bold art-making and playful collaboration. Campers will enjoy art-filled experiences based on weekly themes as well as stories, songs and games. Children will explore various art mediums, such as pottery painting, watercolor, oil pastels, tempera paints, collage and clay sculpture in both guided and self-guided experiences.

SKY CAMP AT SKY ZONE

10137 E. Adamo Dr., #800b, Tampa 33619 813-833-1740; skyzone.com/tampa/programs/skycamp

Sky Camp for ages 5-13 includes days of active play at Sky Zone on our Ninja Warrior Course, Free Climb, Sea of Trampolines and so much more. Accompanied by Sky Zone camp counselors, kids enjoy healthy physical fitness and fun including crafts, movies and science experiments. It’s hassle-free for parents. Drop off the kids and we’ll make sure they have the best time ever. Full-, half-day and full-week options and sibling discounts are available. Cost: Full day $275/ week, Half day $175/ week Dates/Times: M-F, June 14 – Aug. 13, Full day 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Half day 9:30 a.m. to noon Ages: 6-12, Coed

Cost: $35.99-$45.99/ day, $139.99-$179.99/ week Dates/Times: Every day school is out from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Ages: 5-13, Coed

SOUL ADVENTURES

Skycrest Christian School, 129 N. Belcher Road, Clearwater 33765 727-797-1186; souladventures.us

Every day is a new adventure at Soul Adventures summer camp, which offers two exciting summer options. Adventure Camp for 10-15-year-olds includes off-campus outdoor activities such as kayaking, paddle boarding, biking and fishing. Jr. Adventure Camp for 5-9-year-olds will keep your child active during our fun-filled weeks.

ST. RAPHAEL’S SUMMER CAMP

1376 Snell Isle Blvd. NE, St. Petersburg 33704 727-823-7969 or 727-709-0060; straphaelschool.net

Structured activities throughout the day keep minds and bodies active with experienced staff at a 1:10 ratio. We have a grassy field for sports and water play, shaded and fenced playground, air conditioned gym for group activities and snacks and meals, all on a secure waterfront campus. Fulltime and part-time attendance is offered and fees are all inclusive at the ‘cool’ place to spend the ‘hot’ summer!

TAMPA MUSEUM OF ART – SUMMER ART CAMP

Tampa Museum of Art, Cornelia Corbett Center 120 W. Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa 33602 813-421-8373; tampamuseum.org/summerartcamp

Children and teens exercise their creativity and imagination with hands-on activities themed around the Tampa Museum of Art’s permanent collection of antiquities, modern and contemporary art. With a variety of 2D and 3D mediums to choose from, campers connect with the art on view and create unique works of art.

TRADITIONAL TAEKWON-DO CENTER OF SOUTH TAMPA

3617 Henderson Blvd., Tampa 33609 813-350-9400; southtampataekwondo.com

Who wants to be a Ninja this summer? Kick, spin, jump and learn martial arts with our amazing black belt instructors. Other activities include fun field trips, arts and crafts, enrichment classes, Lego play, water slides, obstacle course fun and much more.

VALLEY VIEW RANCH EQUESTRIAN CAMP

606 Valley View Ranch Road, Cloudland, GA 30731 706-862-2231; valleyviewranch.com

Since 1954, this horse lovers’ paradise on top of Lookout Mountain offers 600 acres of scenic trails and panoramic views where all levels of riders will learn English and Western. Enrollment is limited to 50 girls and is open to ages 8-17. Spend up to six hours a day riding and caring for your OWN camp horse.

VIOLINS 4 JOY SUMMER VIOLIN CAMPS

1189 NE Cleveland St., Clearwater 33755 727-285-8535; violins4joy.com

Offered for school-aged children of all musical ability levels, the camps provide an opportunity for children to come together and grow as musicians and leaders. The programming is innovative, the repertoire is diverse and teachers are experienced educators who are experts in their musical instrument. As a bonus, the camp’s location is near one of America’s “Best Beaches.” Each camp will offer students opportunities to perform as soloists and as a group. For more details and to register, visit our website.

VOSLER YOUNG ARTISTS' STUDIO

330 Pauls Drive, Brandon 33511 813-417-5867; vosleryoungartistsstudio.com

This workshop will introduce the young artist to a classical atelier program of instruction. Students will learn to draw through direct observation. Kerry Vosler, master instructor, will do frequent demonstrations and give regular instruction at the artist's easel. See website for more details about the Tampa Bay, Sarasota and McLean, Virginia workshops. Supplies included. Cost: Adventure Camp $285/week, Jr. Adventure Camp $168/week Date/Time: May 24-Aug. 6, 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Ages: Adventure Camp 10-15 and Jr. Adventure Camp 5-9, Coed

Cost: Full-time $175/ week, Part-time $45/day, $50 registration fee Date/Time: June 14 - July 30, 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., M-F Ages: 5-11, Coed

Cost: $150-$175 Dates/Times: May 31 - July 2, 9 a.m. to noon or 1-4 p.m. Ages: 6-17, Coed

Cost: $175.00 per week, no registration and free uniform Dates/Times: May 31- Aug. 6, 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Ages: 5-15, Coed

Cost: $2,050-$3,600 Dates/Times: Overnight, June 6 - Aug. 6 Ages: 8-17, Female

Cost: $100-$225/week Dates: June 7-11 Ages: 5-14, Coed

Cost: $320-$395/week Dates: March 15-18, June 7-11 and June 14-18 Ages: 12-18, Coed

WEB OF WISDOM SUMMER SCIENCE CAMP

5238 Mile Stretch Drive, Holiday 34690 727-389-4750; wowschools.org

At WOW science camp, children will learn about the Florida ecosystem through hands-on science labs and outdoor adventures. Students learn basic skills such as fishing, boating safety and animal identification. Field trip activities include snorkeling, fish sampling, kayaking and more.

YMCA OF GREATER ST. PETERSBURG SUMMER CAMP

Multiple Locations 727-895-9622; stpeteymca.org/childcare/summer-camp

Summer Day Camp at the Y is an 8-week program that integrates exercise, play, STEM-based activities, field trips and more. Children can explore their favorite interests with our Specialty Camps featuring sports, outdoor adventures, cooking and more. Pair a one-week Specialty Camp with Day Camp for a full 8-week summer of fun and exploration at the Y! Cost: $150/week Dates/Times: June 1 - July 30, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. (camp activities 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.) Ages: K-8, Coed

Cost/Ages: Starting at $150, ages 5-14 (Bardmoor, Jim & Heather Gills Y). Starting at $125, ages 5-12 (Childs Park Y, Lealman Exchange), Coed Dates: June 14 – Aug. 6

VISIT TAMPABAYPARENTING.COM TO VIEW OUR FULL SUMMER CAMP DIRECTORY.

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SKELETAL SYMPTOMS

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Visit hunterpatients.com or talk to your doctor for more information about Hunter syndrome

RESPIRATORY ENLARGED

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DELAYS