a summer day camp program for children affected by cancer

2008 Programs & Dates

Children’s Island

Developing friends and memories for a lifetime

The island is located about a mile outside the entrance to Marblehead Harbor.

Each day at 8:00 am and again at 8:45 am the Hannah Glover departs with children and counselors from the State Street Public Landing in downtown Marblehead for the 25-acre YMCA island day camp. At 4 pm and 5 pm the Hannah Glover returns filled with tired — but happy — campers.

The Island and its facilities are well maintained to provide a safe, enjoyable experience in a rustic outdoor setting. Included are fields (for volleyball, softball, lacrosse, soccer and archery), beaches, a fleet of watercraft including sailboats and kayaks, a 30′ × 75′ salt-water swimming pool, nature habitats, areas for environmental studies, and more. Facilities include an Arts and Crafts Building, Main Lodge, Sailors Lodge and the Director’s cabin and First Aid Station. Each session includes an overnight stay, a family night, and an exciting “theme day.” All equipment necessary for a quality experience is provided.

Safety is a top priority on Children’s Island. Certified life guards are on duty at all times the pool is open or the beach is being used. All staff members and counselors are CPR certified and first aid trained, and a local physician is on call. The carefully selected Island staff is made up of program directors and counselors with excellent experience in the field as well as certified waterfront personnel. All participate in extensive pre-camp and ongoing staff training programs. Nancamp offers three programs centered at the Island during June, July and August: the Children’s Island Program for 2nd through 6th graders, the Teen Leaders Program for 7th and 8th graders, and the Counselor-in-Training Program for 9th and 10 graders.

The Children’s Island Day Camp Program

For campers entering 2nd through 6th grades

The Children’s Island Day Camp Program offers one and two-week sessions. Activities include sailing, rowing and kayaking, swimming in the Island pool or one of the beautiful beaches, snorkeling, lobstering, Rangers (campcraft, Native American lore, etc.), archery, rock climbing, arts and crafts, environmental exploration, games, individual and team sports, cookouts, overnights and special theme days. A Family Night is held during each session.

Teen Leaders Program

Open to teens entering 7th or 8th grades

The Teen Leaders Program offers two and four-week programs designed to develop leadership skills. Cooperative and outward bound activities emphasize teamwork, respect, trust and communication. Teen Leader campers participate in the Children’s Island Day Camp programs. Day trips and an overnight camping trip are highlights of the program.

Counselor-in-Training Program

Open to teens entering the 9th or 10th grades

The CIT program is divided between training and actively assisting counselors with their camper groups. Working with the CIT director, participants will learn conflict resolution, program planning and how to work with children of all ages. Once the CITs have completed their initial training they can choose to assist in Aquatics, Sailing, Rangers and Arts and Crafts or with camper groups. Children’s Island CITs are also introduced to the YMCA of the North Shore mission which is committed to the values of Caring, Honesty, Respect and Responsibility.

Small Fry Camp

For children 4 through 7 years old

The Small Fry Camp is based at the Marblehead/Swampscott YMCA facility and grounds on Pleasant Street in Marblehead. This program is designed to provide a fun and rewarding camp experience for the first-time camper as well as excellent social interaction opportunities.

The two-week sessions include instructional and recreational swimming, arts and crafts, story time, games and field trips to parks, beaches, ice cream shops, etc., and guest visits. Once each session the Small Fry travel to Children's Island aboard the Hannah Glover for a half day of fun, swimming, arts and crafts, nature exploration and lunch.

Small Fry Camp Hours
9:00am – 1:00pm
1:00pm – 5:00pm (extended hours)

Explorers Camp

For campers entering second grade and up

Explorers camp is an extension of the Small Fry Camp. Campers participate in more advanced athletic activities, swimming lessons and art projects. Explorers is designed for campers who want to continue a field-trip based camp at an advanced level. Campers will travel on the first Friday of every session: these field trips have included: Water Country, Canobie Lake Park, and George’s Island. Explorers Camp is full of opportunities for a child to develop leadership skills incorporating the YMCA values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibilities.

Sailboats