We began our Y Olympics week with an explanation of what the Olympics are. The children had a little bit of an idea but not really. They were all a little young to remember much from past Olympics.
The children were split into groups and we began the "games" right away. One group began their competition while the other group was able to create their own flag. We had several quite interesting flags to be made, but all enjoyed creating their own flag to represent them. A few of the games we began with were the football toss, Frisbee throw, soccer kick, relay race, 25 yard dash, slowest starburst chewing contest, the quiet game, swimming races and many more through out the week. As the week progressed each child had a chance to win "medals".
Tuesday we went to swim at the Y and participated in a few swim races. It was just for fun and each child earned a medal for it.
Wednesday was one of our best field trips for the summer. We went to Kazoing! and the children LOVED it. They were able to practice some gymnastics by jumping on the trampoline, using the uneven bars and they also got to swing into a foam pit, run through a jumpy maze and do an obstacle course. This was a great trip for every one. Although, the counselors were a bit sad that we were unable to get on the equipment and "play" with the kiddos. I guess we are all kids at heart.
Thursday we went to swim at the Y and did some more rock wall climbing and kids club. We have some VERY strong climbers in this group. Several have been practicing all summer and done a great job working up to newer levels. Be sure to check out the schedule at the Y so you can watch your child climb. We have several nights a week it is open for about four hours.
Friday we completed our Olympic week by finishing up creating their torches and awarded medals. We had our torch ceremony along with our closing ceremonies. Each child was awarded their medal filled with Gold, Silver and "Bronze" stars to represent the games they won through out the week. The children each got to come forward to receive their medal. After they received their medals we took a walk through the campus and gym. The children came up with their own chant and midway down the hall were saying "We are, We are Awesome. . .Awesome.
I was very pleased with the children's enthusiasm to participate in the games and crafts. I hope they enjoyed the week as much as the counselors did.
As you approached the classroom this week, you probably scratched your head and thought "WHY in the world is there a Christmas tree out, It's July!". You are correct it was Christmas in July. We started the week off by creating Christmas themed papers and talking about what we wanted Santa to bring us. We also had The Paint Spot visit us for our "Field trip". The kids didn't quite understand that it was a field trip when it was at camp. They all did a wonderful job painting their mugs. We even got to have two groups from the older camp join us. There was a lot of creative juices flowing and many laughs heard around the room.
Of course it is July, so we cant leave out our weekly swimming. Tuesday we were off to the Y for swimming. The pool is always a nice break from the heat, even when the water is 90 degrees. We have been opening the slide each week for the kiddos to enjoy and also that water is MUCH cooler :-) We were also able to enjoy the Kids Club and Rock Wall at the Y later in the after noon. Despite the very hot weather walking over, we were able to enjoy the cool air and water to drink once inside the Y. If your children are super tired on Tuesdays or Thursdays, this would be why. We take not one but two walks to the Y (swimming, rock wall climbing and kids club playing).
Wednesday we had several activities at camp to start out the day then took a special trip to the Y for swimming. We were trying to beat the heat this week. Unfortunately, we were unable to stay more than an hour. That hour was nice though, we cant complain.
Thursday was a special treat because we were able to have an extra field trip. We headed back out to Calypso Cove due to the HOT weather we were having. IT was no Christmas weather this July, that's for sure.
Friday we had a family picnic. We were very excited to make Christmas tree poster's by using our hand prints. We also we very excited to have a visit from Santa. Last year he was able to join us and the kids truly enjoyed it. Unfortunately, due to unexpected circumstances Santa was unable to attend. The children were sad to hear his plane got stuck in Dallas, TX where he had been all week for training. They understood though because they knew it was TOO HOT for those reindeer to bring him, because they might get sick. They were heart broken and I was sad to inform them BUT Santa did give me some ideas of a special treat to give the kiddos. He asked me to make them all snow cones and then give them a treat bag. The kids were very excited to receive their gift, even though Santa was not able to attend.
All in all, this week was a HUGE success. Thanks for a great week, parents & kiddos.
Our Under Sea Adventure week began with group activities, playground and several books about the ocean. The children had a lot of fun swimming, going to Calypso Cove, enjoying a few crafts and of course the bus ride.
We were able to make a jellyfish, create our own aquariums and talk about what we would find under the sea.
Due to the extreme heat we had to put off some of our outdoor games and plans. It was very hot and extremely humid. We made the best of it with limited time outdoors and many a game of freeze dance/cha cha slide and singing.
The kids seemed to have a great week and enjoy the activities we had. Calypso Cove was a favorite this week, every one had a FUN time! Of course, the kids absolutely love the bus ride more than the field trip it seems. I think they like not having to "buckle up" and freedom to choose where they sit with their friends. We have quite a few who enjoy a cat nap on the rides back to camp site. They sure are peaceful as they sleep :-)
I would say this week was definitely a hit! Thanks for all your help and I apologize for delaying the updates.
I first want to apologize for my lack of updating the Blog. I have been extremely busy outside of work, so my down time is normally going to be. It has not included any time to update the blog. I will, however, be updating photo's and what we've been up to this week. It takes a bit of time to upload photo's but I will get to working on it.
The past few weeks have been amazing and very busy at camp. We had Christmas in July, Hawaiian Hullabaloo, Under Sea Adventure, Y Olympic week and next week begins our Space is the Place.
Keep watching for updates as the week continues. I do want to remind all parents that JCPS will not be offering free lunch or breakfast the next two weeks. We do ask that you pack your child's lunch daily for the next two weeks. Also, the week of August 8-12 we will be located at the Southwest YMCA. If you have any further questions please feel free to ask us at camp or call the front desk. We appreciate your cooperation with us. Have a great night!
