UPDATE: South Mountain YMCA hosts summer camp reunion and fair

MAPLEWOOD, NJ — South Mountain YMCA campers can reconnect with friends and relive summer fun, and all are invited to check out the array of Y camps — including three new options — on Friday, Feb. 5, at 13 Jefferson Road in Maplewood. The South Mountain Y is hosting a camp fair at 1 p.m. to introduce its 17 summer camps, followed by the Camp Connections reunion, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

This event was originally scheduled for Jan. 23, but the impending snow forced a delay.

Responding to feedback from parents and children, the Y has added three new camps, including the half-day YKnots Explorers for ages 3 and a half to 5 — children entering kindergarten — at the First Presbyterian and Trinity Church in South Orange. The new Glam Camp offers a hands-on introduction to fashion, with children ages 9 through 13 sketching and sewing as they learn to develop their own fashion sense; it will be held at Temple Sharey Tefilo-Israel in South Orange. The Skateboard Half Day Clinic, a three-hour program, will be held at Maplecrest Park for children entering grades two through eight.

From the traditional to the specialized, South Mountain Y camps build campers’ self-esteem, confidence and social skills in a fun, safe and enriching environment. Participants develop independence and wellness awareness through developmentally appropriate activities and learning experiences in camps that are accredited by the American Camp Association, according to a release.

Traditional camps include Mini Y Knots, Y Knots, SOMAPY Camp, Preteen Adventure Camp, Teen Adventure Camp and the Counselor-in-Training program.  The Y offers specialty camps in drama, the environment, global arts, sports and golf. Reading time and STEM lessons are incorporated into all curriculums.

Visit www.SMountainYMCA.org and click on the 2016 Camp Guide or call 973-762-4145 for more details. Campers can send an email to estoddard@metroymcas.org to RSVP the reunion. The Y provides financial assistance to those who qualify.