y explorers
Y EXPLORERS IS THE SUMMER-LONG OPTION FOR SCHOOL AGE KIDS ENTERING 1ST-4TH GRADE. THE 2023 SESSION RUNS JUNE 5-AUGUST 11.
2023 REGISTRATION OPENS JANUARY 9, 2023!

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 alyssa.yantzer@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 alyssa.yantzer@bismarckymca.org or by calling 701-751-9773.
2023 Y EXPLORERS WEEKLY THEMES
June 5-9: Yland Fiesta - Celebrate the start of the best summer ever with a fun & festive tropical island fiesta right here on dry land.
June 12-16: Summer Scream - Become a real roller coaster tycoon when you design & build your own thrill rides & enjoy an extra special visit to the Super Slide Amusement Park.
June 19-23: Where The Y-ild Things Are - Take a walk on the y-ild side with an awesome animal themed adventure including a trip to the Dakota Zoo.
June 26-June 30: Splashtopia - Enjoy some wet & wild fun in the sun with some wonderful water activities and a trip to the splash pad!
July 3-7 (closed July 4): Party In The USA!- Show your love for the stars & stripes with a special week-long Independence Day celebration.
July 10-14: Shark Tank - Experience the excitement of STEM work when you design & "sell" your own invention to our staff team of "bosses."
July 17-21: Splash and Dash - It's a wild water adventure combined with a cross country meet, ending with a trip to the splash pad.
July 24-28: Play Ball!-Get sporty with a series of active athletic style games & enjoy a trip to the Bismarck Larks.
July 31-August 4: Are We There Yet?! - Take a trip around the world in your own imagination with an inspirational & educational travel themed exploration.
August 7-11: How The West Was Fun- It's the wild west when you explore the exciting & rich history of North Dakota, ending in a fun visit to the Custer House.
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!
2023 Monthly Rate Plan
Members: $620
Non-Members: $685
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
Alyssa Yantzer
701-751-9773
alyssa.yantzer@bismarckymca.org
QUICK LINKS
YDC Parent Handbook
