Mini Explorers

 

 MINI EXPLORERS SUMMER CAMP 2025- REGISTRATION OPEN

Supported through the generosity of Cherry Point Animal Hospital and Douthat Insurance

         

Summer is a time for EXPLORATION and FUN! Mini Explorers is designed for the needs of younger children while they explore and experience a full day of arts and crafts, story time, games, sports, and more! Imagination, building socialization and motor skills will be a focus of this camp. They will also have opportunities to play in the gym, outside, in the FAC, and in Child Watch daily.

Program Hours:

Monday - Friday 7:00a - 5:45p
Please try to have your explorers at the Y by 9:00am when we begin our structured activities.

3&1/2yr old pre-k - rising kindergarten*

*Kids MUST be born between 5/27/2019 - 12/21/ 2021.
Kids MUST be potty trained and have NOT attended kindergarten upon registration.

 

REGISTER FOR CAMP

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MINI EXPLORERS 2025 SESSION LIST

Mini Explorers 2025 Sessions: Open March 18 for registration

*Session 1: May 27-30: Beach Bash

Take off your shoes and dip our toes in the sand as we kick off this summer exploring the beach and diving deep into the ocean!

Session 2: June 2-June 6: The Great Outdoors

Enjoy all that summer has to offer in the great outdoors! 

Session 3: June 9-13: Zoo Adventure

Lions, Tigers and Bears! Explore the animal kingdom during this exciting week of fun! 

Session 4: June 16-20: Magical World of Disney

Come explore with us as we create magical memories with favorite Disney characters, movies and shows!

Session 5: June 23-27: Summer Splash

Make a splash as we cool down with a week full of pool/ water fun! 

*Session 6: June 30- July 3: All About America

Let’s show our American pride during our patriotic week as we explore all things USA!

Session 7: July 7-11: Wondering Out West

Lace up your boots & cowboy/ girl hats as we take a trip out west!

Session 8: July 14-18: Super Stars in Space

Let’s explore the mysterious and magical universe as we get lost in space!

Session 9: July 21-25: Let's Go To The Movies

Come spend the week enjoying the best of children movies and having a blast with friends! 

 

2025 MINI EXPLORERS SUMMER CAMP COST +

$40 Registration Fee for YMCA Members Friends of the Y is required (non-refundable)

Session 1- May 27-30
YMCA Members: $130
Friends of the YMCA: $150
Session 2- June 2-6
YMCA Members: $150
Friends of the YMCA: $170
Session 3- June 9-13
YMCA Members: $150
Friends of the YMCA: $170
Session 4- June 18-20
YMCA Members: $150
Friends of the YMCA: $170
Session 5- June 23-27
YMCA Members: $150
Friends of the YMCA: $170
Session 6- June 30- July  3
YMCA Members: $130
Friends of the YMCA: $150
Session 7- July 7-11
YMCA Members: $150
Friends of the YMCA: $170
Session 8- July 14-18
YMCA Members: $150
Friends of the YMCA: $170
Session 9- July 21-25
YMCA Members: $150
Friends of the YMCA: $170
  

 

MINI EXPLORERS FAQ's +

HOW OLD DO MY KIDS NEED TO BE TO PARTICIPATE?

Ages: 3 - 6 years old*

  • *Kids MUST be born between 5/27/2019 - 12/21/ 2021.
  • Kids MUST be potty trained and have NOT attended kindergarten upon registration.
WILL LUNCH BE PROVIDED?

Two snacks and a lunch are offered each day. Lunch is provided daily by our YMCA Feeding Program. A menu will be provided each week as well. Children are welcome to bring their own snacks and lunch. 

IS THERE FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE?

The Y is accessible to all individuals regardless of age, income, or background. If you need help with payment of any portion of the camp fees, please complete our Financial Assistance form and return to the YMCA facility, along with last year’s tax form and your last two paycheck stubs. Financial Assistance is awarded on a first come first serve basis.

HOW DO I REGISTER MY CHILD(REN)?

Register for Mini Explorers Summer Camp on the main Mini Explorers page- click link to register. You can also call or visit our membership desk for assistance. Download a paper registration form HERE. See Jessica Slaughter for more details: [email protected]

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE +

RHONDA HELTON CHILDCARE SCHOLARSHIP (FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE) 

 

This scholarship is named in honor of Rhonda Helton who served the Kingsport Family YMCA for over 35 years. Rhonda was an invaluable member of the organization and her contributions to the YMCA’s mission and to the children and families we serve have been immeasurable. This scholarship ensures that her legacy will continue to live on and impact our organization and the community.

Financial assistance will be provided for anyone who meets the established income guidelines. Funds made available for financial assistance are provided through the YMCA's Annual Giving Campaign. Financial assistance is available for most programs offered by the Greater Kingsport Family YMCA, including membership.

ELIGIBILITY
  • Assistance will be awarded on the basis of financial need.
  • Guardian(s) must be employed or an active student to be eligible for Afterschool financial assistance.
  • Scholarship eligibility will be reviewed every year or as deemed necessary.
  • Failure to list all income and verification statements will result in denial of financial assistance.
  • The Y strives to award financial assistance responsibly and for those primarily using the YMCA facility. We reserve the right to make subjective decisions to best support the mission of the Y. 
HOW TO APPLY

Follow these instructions carefully to prevent delay in processing your application:

  1. Complete the Open Doors Financial Assistance Application in full.
  2. Documentation of household income:
    • Copy of Tax Return (ex. 1040, 1040A, 1040EZ)
    • Two recent consecutive pay stubs
    • Verification of any other income/assistance received (ex. Housing assistance, alimony, food stamps, student loan income, child support, etc.)
     
  3. Return your completed application and all supporting income documentation to the Y. This can also be emailed to [email protected]
  4. Someone will contact you within 5 business days regarding your qualification.

RHONDA HELTON CHILDCARE SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION

Questions? Jessica Slaughter [email protected]

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Questions?

Jess Slaughter- [email protected]

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