Camp Riley Combines Learning, Summer Fun for Farmington Area Kids

Registration is open for the Farmington Youth Assistance (FYA) outdoor-based summer camp, Camp Riley, now in its fifth year.

The camp combines activities like field trips and swimming with hands-on experiences supporting reading, writing and math.

“What appears to be a traditional day camp goes far beyond by supporting academics in a fun learning environment,” said caseworker Amber Kish. “We’re playing sports and doing crafts, as well as learning math using props like water balloons, water blasters and paint.”

The camp is a partnership among FYA, Farmington YMCA, Farmington Public Schools and the Farmington Community Library. Activities include games, singing, art, journaling, book writing, storytelling, idea investigation, and other projects. Each week has a theme, such as oceans, monsters, music and mystery. Kids take field trips twice a week.

The curriculum is aligned with the state and Common Core national standards, as well as the YMCA core values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility. 

“Our pre and post tests have shown our kids are not just maintaining, but learning,” said Barb DuRei, volunteer curriculum consultant. “Every child tested showed growth in vocabulary last year.”

The camp is held at the Farmington YMCA and Kenbrook Elementary and runs June 17 to Aug. 30 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Before and aftercare is available for working parents. Facilitated with the help of the Farmington YMCA, Camp Riley can accommodate 80 youth entering kindergarten through fifth grades in the fall. Kids are separated into groups by age for individual attention. Therese Perlowski, a certified teacher, serves as camp coordinator.

Participants must be currently enrolled in Farmington Public Schools and financial assistance may be available. To register, contact the YMCA office at 248-553-4020.