NEWS & UPDATES
the Franklin Y

All that’s happening at the Bernon Y.

Posted on: Sunday, November 22nd, 2020

Youth Classes at your Y

We are excited to be welcoming youth back for a variety of classes geared toward healthy living and youth development. Open enrollment means that you are welcome to sign up at any time, however spaces are limited as we strive for safe numbers and social distancing whenever possible. Your safety is our top priority and we are following guidelines from the CDC and local health officials to ensure that we meet the highest standards of hygiene and safety.

REGISTER TODAY

Currently, we are offering the below classes:

  • Swim Lessons – starting at 6 months. To learn about swim levels and placement, click here. For Swim Starters, (ages 6 mo-4yrs, stages A-C), register here. For Swim Basics, (ages 3+, stages 1-3), register here. For Swim Strokes, (ages 5+, stages 4-6), register here.

  • Intramural Swim Team is available at our Foxboro, North Attleboro, and Franklin branches. Register here.

  • Gymnastics Classes – are now offered for preschoolers and youth/teens at all branches. For parent/child gymnastics, register here. For preschool gymnastics (ages 3-6), register here.
    For gymnastics (ages 6-14), register here.

  • Sports – We are now offering 45 min classes in the categories below! Note that beginner and intermediate karate and age 2 All Stars classes only run 30 minutes. Cost for sports classes is $32 (member) $64 (nonmember) per month (half hour classes: $27/$54).
    1. All Star Sports:
      In Foxboro: Wed. 10:15am (age 2); Tues. 10:15 or 11:15am (age 3-4) | In Franklin: Mon. 10:30am (age 2); Mon. 11:15 or Tues. 11:30am (age 3-4); Tues. 4:00pm (age 5-6) | In N. Attleboro: Thurs. 10:10am (age 3-4). Register here.
    2. Basketball:
      In Foxboro: Tuesdays 4:00pm (age 5-6), 5:00pm (age 7-8), 6:00pm (age 9-12) | In Franklin: Wednesdays 3:15pm (age 6-8), 4:05pm (age 9-12) | In N. Attleboro: Fridays 3:15pm (age 4-6), 4:15pm (age 6-8), 5:15pm (age 9-12). Register here.
    3. Karate (ages 5+):
      In Foxboro: Sundays beginner, intermediate & advanced run 9:30, 10:15 & 11:00am (respectively) | In Franklin: Wednesdays: 6:10, 6:50, 7:30pm. Register here.

  • Dance Classes – are running in Foxboro & Franklin. We also offer musical theatre classes at the Mansfield Y. Register here.

  • Theatre Classes – are in full swing at our Mansfield Arts & Education Center! Register here.

  • Fitness Classes – for youth ages 5-14 are a great way to stay active and build healthy habits. Register here.

  • Cooking Classes – are available for kids ages 3-10. Register here.

  • STEM – classes that are running now include Robotics, Coding and Legos for ages 6-8 at the Franklin Y. Register here.

Enrollment Details:

  • “Open Enrollment” is in place for most youth programs so that you can sign up for class and have your child join right away, participating through the end of this school year or until you’d like to stop. Transfers between classes may also take place if you wish.
  • Programs are charged monthly. Learn more here.

Prior to Coming to Class:

  • We encourage kids to arrive at the Y wearing their bathing suit for swim class or their leotard for gymnastics under their regular clothes ready to take class.
  • Please bring a full water bottle. (Water fountains are not available)
  • Face masks are required at all times while in the facility.
  • Please remember to leave at least 6 feet of space for social distancing between you and others.
  • We encourage bringing as few people as possible to your class so that we can keep numbers low and members can be safely distanced from each other.

When You Arrive:

  • You’ll be greeted by our Member Service Desk staff. All staff are required to wear Personal Protective Equipment.
  • We will ask you health questions. Anyone that is symptomatic will not be allowed admission into the facility for the safety of all.
  • You will self scan into the facility using your key tag or the “HockYFitness” mobile app on your phone.
  • Locker rooms will be available for changing and individual showers are also available.
  • A limited number of lockers will be available for use.

Ways We’re Keeping You Safe:

  • Health screenings for all participants, caregivers and staff. You will be asked health questions prior to entering the Y each time you visit.
  • Self-scanning check in and check out.
  • Reduced capacity. Most classes have reduced capacity by 40%-50% to allow for social distancing. Max class sizes range from 3 to 8 kids per class depending upon program and size of space available.
  • Masks required for staff, participants and caregiver. Children must arrive wearing a mask or face covering. The only time masks are not required is when participants are in the pool swimming.
  • Between every class, staff will disinfect all used equipment, railings, seating and more.
  • Hand washing stations and hand sanitizer supplies are available for use.
  • When you exit the Y, please remember to scan out with your key tag. This process helps us keep track of our facility capacity to keep everyone safe.

What to Expect for Swim Lessons:

  • There will be very little seating on the pool deck and a small observation area in the main lobby to observe the pool.
  • Face masks are required at all times while in our facility and when entering the pool area. Your child will meet their swim instructor on the pool deck with their face mask on. Right before entering the water, participants can remove their mask and hand it to their parent/guardian.
  • Our swim instructors will teach both in and out of the pool depending on the level of instruction needed. Again, all staff will be wearing masks.
  • When the swim lesson is over, your child should get out of the water, dry off, and put their face mask on right away.
  • Hand washing stations and hand sanitizer supplies are available for use.
  • After the swim lesson, there is only a short window of time for instructors to talk to parents and clean equipment. You can proceed to the locker room to change.

What to Expect for Classes:

  • We encourage kids to arrive at the Y wearing clothes they need, under regular clothes if needed, so that they’ll be ready for class.
  • Have your child leave items in one of our cubbies located outside the gym when possible and wait outside the gym until their instructor calls them in.
  • Face masks are required to be worn at all times by participants, staff and caregivers.
  • When it’s time for class to begin, the gym doors will be opened. The instructor will call your child’s name for attendance. Your child will be asked to sanitize their hands upon entering the gym. They should bring in a full water bottle. If a child is allergic to hand sanitizer, they will be asked to wash their hands before entering the gym.

Other Amenity Information:

  • Limited seating will be available for each class to allow for social distancing. We ask that each child in class is accompanied by one caregiver during class, and that caregivers do not bring siblings who are not enrolled.
  • At this time our Kid’s Gyms are closed.

If Your Membership Is on Hold?

Call the Y to activate your membership from Hold; this will allow you to receive the member pricing on your program. Before your first visit, please be sure to review our new policies, sign our updated Waiver and Code of Conduct below. The prompt will ask you for your barcode which is the numbers on the back of your Hockomock Area YMCA keytag and your last name. If you do not have a Y keytag, call the Y for assistance.

Sign Waiver

We look forward to seeing you at the Y!

Posted on: Friday, November 20th, 2020

Vacation Week Programs & Care

When school is not in session due to the a school vacation week, kids are invited to join us at the Y for fun and active programs.

We believe that all kids deserve the opportunity to discover who they are and what they can achieve. That’s why, through Y programs, children are cultivating the values, skills and relationships that lead to positive behaviors, socialization, better health, and achievement.

Our experienced staff takes the right steps to ensure your child’s safety and happiness during an action-packed day!

These programs are being offered in partnership with YMCA staff on our Operations Program Team as well as our School Age Child Care Program Team.

Safety is our top priority, and the Covid safety protocols we’ve developed and are consistently enhancing are based on procedures developed for our successful Emergency Child Care programs, Summer Camps and our Out of School Time Virtual Learning Programs that allowed us to safely provide care during the last nine months. Please contact us with any questions about our safety procedures.

December Vacation Week Details:

  • Program Days: Monday, 12/28 through Thursday, 12/31
  • Program Hours: Monday, 12/28 through Wednesday, 12/30 7:00am – 6:00pm
  • Thursday, 12/31: 7:00am – 2:00pm (The Y closes at 2:00pm on New Year’s Eve)
  • Families can choose which day(s) they wish their child to participate.
  • Our Locations: The Foxboro Y; St. Marys Franklin and the North Attleboro Y.
  • Activities will vary per location and may include: Gymnastics, Swim, Outdoor Activities, STEM, Arts and Crafts, Cooking, Special Visitors, Gym Time.
  • Please bring a lunch, snacks and water bottle. Each child must wear a mask, and we encourage each child to bring an extra mask in their backpack. The only time children do not need to wear masks is when swimming in the pool.

at the Foxboro Y

REGISTER TODAY (FOXBORO Y)

We are also offering a Stay All Day Program on Christmas Eve – Thursday, 12/24 (9:00am-1:00pm) including cooking, baking, swimming and STEAM activities! Join our Nutrition Director Ms. Lauren and Enrichment Director Ms. Lyn for all the fun! For ages 5 to 10.REGISTER TODAY

Take advantage of the school vacation week with Private Swim Lessons at our Foxboro Y December 27 – 30. Increase a swimmer’s confidence by learning one-on-one with a YMCA instructor. Flexible scheduling with half hour private swim lessons.REGISTER TODAY

at the Franklin St. Mary’s former school location

REGISTER TODAY (FRANKLIN ST. MARYS)

Milford Public School families can attend at the Franklin St. Mary’s former school location

REGISTER TODAY (FRANKLIN ST. MARYS)

at the North Attleboro Y

REGISTER TODAY (NORTH ATTLEBORO Y)

We look forward to seeing you at the Y!

Posted on: Thursday, September 17th, 2020

Virtual Kindergarten Readiness Program

Our YMCA’s Virtual Kindergarten Readiness program is designed to engage your child in developmentally appropriate activities to enhance and develop social-emotional, cognitive and language development, preparing your child for Kindergarten.

We developed and implemented this program in June. And it’s back by popular demand! We are starting new five-week sessions for both two and three day per week options starting September 21 and will run through October 20. Join us!

Each Virtual Kindergarten Readiness session will provide your child with opportunities to learn in a group setting via Zoom technology. Each session is 45 minutes in duration.
Sessions are being offered two days (Tuesday/Thursday) at 1:00pm and another at 2:00pm. These classes will be taught by teachers of our Children’s Center at our North Attleboro Y.
We are offering three day sessions (Monday/Wednesday/Friday) at 10:00am. These classes will be taught by our teachers of our Garelick Early Learning Center at our Franklin Y.

Sessions will be taught by Hockomock Area YMCA qualified teachers who meet the Department of Early Education Qualifications for Preschool Lead Teacher.

Sessions are driven by weekly topics that will provide each child an opportunity for sharing, and a strong emphasis on content through review and applications of mathematics and literacy concepts that are fundamental for their age group.

REGISTER TODAY

Each family will receive an email outlining the weekly lesson plans, attachments that will be provided for the week, and the link to the Zoom meeting. These lessons will contain materials needed for certain project/activities. All materials will be easily accessible in each family’s home.

For more information or questions, please contact Kim Jennings at kjennings@hockymca.org or call 781-879-6271.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How much does it cost?

There are two packages available to both YMCA members and non-members. The duration of each session is 45 minutes. Participants can sign up weekly.

  • The two day a week session is $30 (members) and $40 (non-members) per week.
  • The three day a week session is $45 (members) and $60 (non-members) per week.

What are the YMCA staff qualifications?

Our staff have experience working with children and have a variety of educational backgrounds relative to this program including degrees in education or related areas of study.

Are staff background checked?

Yes, all Hockomock Area YMCA employees undergo a thorough background screening including criminal history, sex offender and reference checks.

What training do staff receive?

Our staff are required to complete online and in person Child Abuse Prevention training, as well as trainings on policies, procedures and risk management. Each preschool lead teacher has completed the MA Department of Early Education and Care Strong Start trainings (12hrs) as well as an additional 20 hours of classroom management, behavior management and curriculum implementation trainings.

Will my child be instructed one-on-one?

Virtual sessions will be in a group format and are designed for up to 8 children.

What technology is needed?

You will need a computer with a camera and an internet connection. Sessions will be conducted through Zoom. You do not need a Zoom account. An access link will be provided prior to your first session via the email you provided through YMCA registration.

What does a session include?

The YMCA’s Virtual Kindergarten Readiness program is designed to engage your child in developmentally appropriate activities to enhance and develop their social-emotional, cognitive and language development to prepare your child for Kindergarten. Each Virtual Kindergarten Readiness session will provide your child with opportunities to learn in a group setting via Zoom technology. Sessions are driven by weekly topics that will provide each child an opportunity for sharing, and a strong emphasis on content through review and applications of mathematics and literacy concepts that are fundamental for their age group.

How do I sign up?

Registration for this program can be done online or in-person at any Hockomock Area YMCA branch during our modified business hours.

What ages are eligible?

This service is available for children ages 4-6.

What days and times are sessions available?

Sessions are being offered two days (Tuesday/Thursday) or three days (Monday/Wednesday/Friday) per week.

How can I contact my child’s instructor?

We ask that communication with your instructor be conducted through email. Your instructor will provide you with their contact information prior to your first session.

Who should I contact with questions?

For more information or questions, please contact Kim Jennings at kjennings@hockymca.org or call 781-879-6271.

Posted on: Tuesday, September 8th, 2020

New Theatre Programs

FALL 2020 PROGRAMS AND CLASSES:

We are pleased to run four great shows this fall, each will begin rehearsals the week of September 14th. Grab your spot today!

The Y provides a safe, enriching place for children to learn and grow and we welcome all new and returning students! Now in our 13th year, the Mansfield Y (known as the Mansfield Arts & Education Center) arranges students into two groups, described below.

1. The Broad-Y Academy
The Broad-Y Academy is our program for students ages 7-14. With several performance opportunities per year, ranging from musical theatre to plays, and workshops and to camps. Our mission is to create theatre magic for students of all ability levels, and to instill a deep love for the arts that will last for the rest of their lives.

Students will learn how to be part of a cast, and a community as they engage in the creation of productions, learning about dancing, singing, and acting along the way!

2. The Theatre Institute
The Theatre Institute is an intensive pre-professional training program for high school aged students, featuring a variety of classes, workshops, and full productions. Our mission is to provide high quality theatrical education, aimed particularly at students who want to develop and grow as young artists.

Each year, students are given the opportunity to participate in the showcase class, featuring concentrated training in acting, movement, and singing techniques, as well as several productions. Our goal is to ensure that students are prepared for collegiate theatre at the completion of their time with us.

If you have any questions, please contact juliap@hockymca.org.

Now Enrolling at the link below:

  • COMPLAINT DEPARTMENT & LEMONADE (age 7-10)
    Thurs. 5pm & Sat. 12:30pm in person rehearsals (90 min. each)
    Runs: 9/17-10/17 (with performances the weekend of 10/24)
    Cost: $185 ($235 non-member)

    People will complain about anything — not almost anything, but absolutely anything! In this rapid succession of hysterical grievances, the complaint department takes on everything from Oreo icing to kleptomania and from songs stuck in the head to the price of cheese and on and on and on. Could there be a glimmer of hope for anyone in charge of a complaint department?

  • LEFT TO OUR OWN DEVICES (age 7-14)
    Mon. 6pm zoom rehearsals + opt Sat. 11am in person rehearsals (1 hr. each)
    Runs: 9/17-10/17 (with performances the weekend of 10/24)
    Cost: $185 ($235 non-member)

    Written specifically to be both rehearsed and performed remotely, you’ll love how the characters in these scenes relate to each other in real time, but from separate locations. A college freshman calling home, ordering from a drive-thru lane, speed dating, a 911 dispatch center, Rapunzel and her prince- you’ll be amazed at the variety packed into these eleven scenes.

  • ORDER UP! (age 11-14)
    Wed. 5pm & Sat. 2:30pm in person rehearsals (90 min. each)
    Runs: 9/16-10/17 (with performances the weekend of 10/24)
    Cost: $185 ($235 non-member)

    When it comes to fast food, people are particular – very particular. In this quick succession of quirky customers, the Order Up! restaurant takes on everything from weird food allergies to fanatical health inspectors, from the fear of eating to someone wanting to hide in the restroom, and on and on and on. Could there be a moment of sanity for the three employees who work behind this fast-food counter?

  • TOGETHER APART (age 14-18) – this is a Showcase Class for the Theatre Institute
    Tues. & Sat. 5pm (3 hr. each) in person rehearsals during Sept
    October rehearsals will taking place: Tuesdays online and Saturdays in person
    Runs: 9/12-12/1 (with performance on 12/5)
    Cost: $220 ($280 non-member)

    Students will learn techniques and build the skills necessary to become a triple threat performer! This collegiate style course will begin with an exploration of musical theatre audition technique, followed by a script analysis and scene study unit. The final section of the class will be dedicated to creating a musical theatre showcase featuring selections intended to be performed with characters in different locations.

Mansfield Arts YMCA (40 Balcom St, Mansfield)

** CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR THEATRE PROGRAMS **

» Printable Theatre Catalogue


connect with us on facebook (left to right below: Theatre at Hockomock Area YMCA | The Theatre Institute)

Posted on: Monday, August 24th, 2020

Spier Family Virtual Triathlon

SPIER FAMILY VIRTUAL TRIATHLON & DUATHLON

Participate virtually now through September 26,2020

REGISTER NOW

Participate in our virtual sprint triathlon or sprint duathlon now through September 26, 2020.

Fast Facts

  • Sprint Triathlon: 0.5 mile SWIM, 12.4 mile BIKE, 3.1 mile RUN.
  • Sprint Duathlon: 12.4 mile BIKE and 3.1 mile RUN.

Anyone ages 14 years or older can participate as an individual.

You can also participate as a team – the whole family can participate!

Your participation and entry fee will benefit our food securities initiatives. And your gift willl be doubled!

While our annual Spier Family Triathlon did not happen this year due to the pandemic, through the the Spier Family Kindness for Kids Challenge when you participate in this virtual healthy living event, your registration fee will help alleviate hunger (and will be matched by this challenge) in our communities through our food security initiatives.

Learn more about our food access initiative at hockymca.org/food-access

REGISTER TODAY

Questions, please contact Katie Moore katiem@hockymca.org.

Posted on: Wednesday, July 8th, 2020

Summer Just Got Longer

DEAR PARENTS AND CAMPERS,


NEW! We have added a week of camp to the end of summer to accommodate the new start date for school. Week 13, September 8-11, is now available for registration for Camp Elmwood & Jr. Camp Elmwood, Camp WAPAWCA & Jr. Camp WAPAWCA, Camp Wiggi & Jr. Camp Wiggi, and for our teens….Voyager Camp!

We are excited to welcome you to summer camp at our locations in Franklin, Foxboro, North Attleboro, Mansfield, and Bellingham.

We have worked diligently with our local boards of health to provide a safe and caring place for our campers and our staff. Although we know that camp will look a little different this year, please know that the spirit and magic of summer camp will be alive and well, and the experience your camper will have here will be amazing, keeping with our tradition of offering a great, quality summer experience. Our camp staff team is looking forward to seeing you all!

Take a look at some important details we provide to parents and campers in our weekly welcome emails along with some additional tidbits of information.


VIEW CAMPS AVAILABLE & REGISTER WITH US


NEW! Week 13: September 8-11 is now available for registration for our traditional camps and teen Voyager Camp.

Other camp opportunities include:

FRANKLIN:

  • Camp Wiggi (grades 1-6) & Jr. Camp Wiggi (ages 3-5) – ongoing through September 11th
  • Camp Silver Lake in BELLINGHAM (grades 1-6) – ongoing through August 21st
  • Super Sports Camp (grades 1-6) – ongoing through August 28th
  • Gymnastics Camps (grades 1-8 & ages 3-5) – through August 28th
  • STEM Camps: Space & Rocketry (grades 4-8) – Week of August 3rd; Engineering & Technology (grades 2-5) – Week of August 10th; Wonderful World of Steam (grades K-1) – Week of August 24th
  • Voyagers Camp – Juniors (grades 6/7), Seniors (grades 8/9) – ongoing through September 11th
  • LIT: Leader-In-Training (grades 7/8) – July 27-August 14
  • CIT: Counselor-In-Training (grades 9/10) – ongoing through September 11th

FOXBORO:

  • Camp WAPAWCA (grades 1-5) & Jr. Camp WAPAWCA (ages 3-5) – ongoing through September 11thr
  • Super Sports Camp (grades 1-6) – ongoing through August 28th.
  • Gymnastics Camps (grades 1-8) – Week of July 27 or Week of August 10
  • Voyagers Camp – Juniors (grades 6/7), Seniors (grades 8/9) – ongoing through September 11th
  • LIT: Leader-In-Training (grades 7/8) – July 27-August 14
  • CIT: Counselor-In-Training (grades 9/10) – ongoing through September 4th

NORTH ATTLEBORO:

  • Camp Elmwood (grades 1-6) & Jr. Camp Elmwood (ages 3-5) – ongoing through September 11th
  • Super Sports Camp (grades 1-6) – ongoing through August 28th
  • Gymnastics Camps (grades 1-8 & ages 3-5) – ongoing through August 21st
  • Half Day Swim Camps (ages 5+) – Weeks of August 3rd and August 10th; Half Day Elmwood available for 2nd half of day
  • NEW Baking & Cooking Camp (grades 1-8) – Week of August 24th
  • Voyagers Camp – Juniors (grades 6/7), Seniors (grades 8/9) – ongoing through September 11th
  • LIT: Leader-In-Training (grades 7/8) – July 27-August 14
  • CIT: Counselor-In-Training (grades 9/10) – ongoing through September 11th
  • New Horizons Teen Village (grades 7+)(Camp for teens with special needs) – Week of August 10th & 17th

MANSFIELD:

  • Story Explorers (Ages 3-6) – half day theatre camp for the Week of August 9th
  • 3-Week Musical Theatre Production Camp (grades 3-9) – July 20-August 7


THINGS YOU CAN EXPECT

  • Camps will celebrate a fun theme each week
  • Although we will not be able to include field trips in our programming this year due to COVID 19, we are safely incorporating special guests into our camp experience for all age groups in place of field trips.
  • Videos and pictures are posted throughout the week of our fun times in camp on our camp Facebook pages.
  • We have a free Popsicle Day once per week!
  • Friday is Pizza Day! ($1.00 per slice)
  • Look for a counselor spotlight each week in your welcome newsletter!
  • All of our camp staff are certified in CPR and First Aid, and have had extensive and mandatory child sexual abuse prevention training, and have signed a staff statement of compliance with our Y’s Code of Conduct, Abuse Prevention policies, and Child Safety absolutes.
  • Financial assistance is available for families in need. Contact Lynette or Lori at Foxboro/Mansfield, North Attleboro, Franklin for more information.
  • Your child(ren) will play, laugh and learn and have a wonderful camp experience with us.


WHAT TO BRING EACH DAY

  • Face mask or covering – Masks will be worn during drop off & pick up, when traveling to and from the restroom and changing areas, and when social distancing is not possible.
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Bathing suit and towel
  • Sunscreen and bug spray
  • Healthy lunch, snacks, and drink
  • Re-fillable water bottle
  • Labeled gallon zip-lock bag with child safe scissors, glue stick, colored pencils, and markers (minimum of 5 colors)
  • Please have camper wear closed-toe shoes/sneakers to camp

HELPFUL TIPS:

  • PLEASE LABEL all items with your camper’s name
  • It’s best to keep everything in a backpack
  • Send a plastic bag to put wet clothing in after swim, so the rest of the items do not get wet in the backpack.
  • Freeze a water bottle the night before camp and pack in lunch box to keep lunch cold
  • Pack flip flogs for walking to the pool
  • Hat – optional


SUMMER CAMP ARRIVAL PROTOCOL

DROP-OFF for camp is between 8:30am-9:15am. Please remember to stay in your car and follow the marked signs to the designated area.
If you signed your child up for Pre-Camp, drop off is between 7:00am-8:30am.

STAFF: Upon arrival, each staff member will go through a health screening and have their bag wiped down with wipes.
CAMPERS: Upon arrival, the following will happen to ensure that campers are coming to camp healthy and ready for a good day. Staff will be wearing face masks and gloves while maintaining social distances during camper drop off.

  1. Parent or guardian will be greeted warmly.
  2. Staff will ask parent/guardian health questions and complete a camper health screening.
    A) Today or in the past 24 hours, have you or any household members had any of the following symptoms?
    • Fever (temperature of 100 degrees F or above)?
    • Felt feverish or had chills?
    • Cough?
    • Sore throat?
    • Difficulty breathing?
    • Gastrointestinal symptoms (diarrhea, nausea, vomiting)?
    • Abdominal pain?
    • Unexplained rash?
    • Fatigue?
    • Headache?
    • New loss of smell, taste?
    • New muscle aches?
    • Any other signs of illness?
    B) In the past 14 days, have you had close contact with a person known to be infected with the novel coronavirus (COVID-19)?
    C) Has your child traveled outside of the Northeast (MA, CT, VT, NH, ME, NY, NJ) within the past 14 days? If the answer is yes, your child is not able to attend camp until a 14-day self-quarantine period has passed.

    IMPORTANT UPDATE:

    Parents, due to the updated travel restrictions which now include Rhode Island, our YMCA will be following state guidelines as well as the guidance from our local boards of health. If you have traveled to Rhode Island as of August 1st you we will not be able to allow your child into camp unless they have quarantined for 14 days or can produce a negative nasal COVID test.

  3. If camper passes health screening, staff will use touch-less scanning to sign them into camp.
  4. Camper exits car. Camper will be given some hand sanitizer and their bag will be wiped down after arrival. If child is in a car seat and needs help getting out of car, please pull the car over to your right.
  5. The fun camp day is about to begin!


SUMMER CAMP PICK-UP PROTOCOL

PLEASE REMEMBER:

  • Please stay in your car during pick-up.
  • All campers need to be signed out of camp. Thank you for your patience.
  • To ensure a safe transfer for your child, we require a photo ID to pick up, every day. Please have your ID ready at dismissal to help with a smooth transition.
  • If you would like to speak with your child’s counselor, please pull forward and to the right of pick-up and let us know. There might be a slight delay due to the time. Thank you for your patience.
  • Campers may also take advantage of post camp options. Sign up here
  • If you need to dismiss your child prior to 3:30pm, please contact the camp office so that we may have your child ready for pick-up.

PICK-UP TIMES:

  • Mansfield Theatre Camps and Camp Silver Lake: Pick up time is between 3:45-4:15
  • All other camps will follow a staggered, scheduled pick-up time for children:
    • If your child’s last name starts with the letters A-H, your pick-up time will be at 3:45pm.
    • If your child’s last name starts with the letters I-P, your pick-up time will be at 4:00pm.
    • If your child’s last name starts with the letters Q-Z, your pick-up time will be at 4:15pm.
  • POST CAMP: Pick-up times for post camp are between 4:15pm-6:00pm. Please stay in your car and have your photo ID ready.


RAINY DAYS

A decision will be made by 5:00pm on whether to make the following day of camp, a “Rainy Day”.
When a Rainy Day is called:

North Attleboro

Foxboro

  • All Foxboro camps will remain at the Foxboro YMCA, rain or shine.
  • We are not able to offer swimming on rainy days.

Franklin

  • Silver Lake Camp will move to the Community Center located at 2 Maple Street, Bellingham, MA when a rainy day is called. Pick up time will stay the same, between 3:30-4:15mp
  • All other Franklin YMCA camps will remain at the Franklin YMCA, rain or shine.
  • We are not able to offer swimming on rainy days.

Rainy Day Reminders

  • Camp staff will direct cars where to go at each rainy day location during morning drop off and afternoon pick up.
  • We require a photo ID to pick up your camper every day. Please have your ID ready at dismissal to help with the smooth transition.
  • Throughout the day, covered areas and rooms inside the building may be used during rain. All campers will be brought inside if lightning occurs.
  • Please check out our Camp Facebook pages and website for updates on rainy days.


DID YOU KNOW

The Hockomock Area YMCA welcomes children with special needs. In Franklin, please contact Sarah Henesey, Association Senior Director of Inclusion; In Foxboro or Mansfield, please contact Barbara Morris, Director of Inclusion; In North Attleboro, please contact Michelle Deschenes, Inclusion Specialist; if you have a child that may need additional supports in order to be successful in camp. We have wonderful staff and amazing volunteers who can assist your child. In most cases, we can accommodate your child’s PCA, ABA, or other support staff that may be necessary for your child’s inclusion. With a little extra time and lots of creativity, we can include your child and make sure he or she has an amazing experience this summer. In order to coordinate support for your child, registration and contact with the Inclusion staff must occur at least one week prior to your child’s week at camp.


PARENT TESTIMONIALS RECEIVED AFTER 1ST WK OF CAMP

“It has made me so unbelievably happy these past two days seeing all these pictures of kids having fun and finally being kids after these few months. My son is so psyched about camp and now I’m so psyched to send him, thank you!” – camp parent

“Just a quick note about camp. My friends’ daughter started Junior Camp Elmwood today. She had never attended before and suffered from major anxiety going to day care the last couple years. She’s an only child and the last few months have been really tough for their family. My friends decided to give camp a shot instead of waiting to see how day care played out. Anyway, she is home after her first half day and can’t stop talking about how much fun she had. It was a great first day experience.” – camp parent


THANK YOU

Thank you choosing our Y to provide a fun and safe camp experience for your child. We understand these are uncertain times and we are grateful to the many families who have signed up for summer camp. We appreciate your confidence, support, and patience. We look forward to welcoming and serving you and your child(ren) at camp this summer.

If you haven’t signed up for camp or would like to add sessions, or pre & post camp, visit our

ONLINE REGISTRATION

We look forward to seeing you!
Sincerely,

Alex Dorson, Kerrie Francis, Ashli Phillips, Julia Paolino
Camp Directors

Posted on: Tuesday, July 7th, 2020

Virtual Summer Learning Program

The YMCA, through a generous grant from BellXcel and in support by Scholastic Learning, is offering a four week Virtual Summer Learning Program for any student entering grades 1-4 in our community.

Children will receive grade level instruction by certified and licensed teachers from our YMCA and Bellingham Public Schools teaching staff. The daily program will include lessons focusing on reading, math, social emotional learning and enrichment. Because this program is offered through a generous grant by BellXcel, the program is offered at no cost to families. We just ask you to commit to the full four weeks.(limited absences are okay.)

Sessions are driven by weekly topics that will provide each child an opportunity for sharing, and a strong emphasis on content through review and applications of mathematics and literacy concepts that are fundamental for their age group.

  • Where: Virtual Sessions from your home
  • When: Starts July 20th and ends August 13th
  • Days/Hours: Monday through Thursday; up to 4 hours per day of learning
  • Who: Students entering Grade 1-4
  • Cost: Free

The program will be offered virtually with up to four hours of learning content each day. Children do not need to be YMCA members to participate. All participants will receive a family package of materials to use at home for extended learning.

Help make your child’s transition to the next grade level with success.

REGISTER TODAY

You do not need to be a Hockomock Area YMCA to participate. If you are not currently a YMCA member, please call a Hockomock Area YMCA branch to register by phone. See footer below for phone numbers.

Here are more details about this no-cost Virtual Summer Learning program:

  • At home materials provided including workbooks, decodable readers, magazines, books and grade level curriculum.
  • Daily instruction in academics & enrichment activities.
  • Family Guide and access to an online portal with additional materials to support home learning.
  • Weekly Virtual Field Trips.

For more information or questions, please contact Kim Jennings at kjennings@hockymca.org

Posted on: Sunday, May 24th, 2020

OUR YMCA’s RESPONSE TO COVID-19

We continue to monitor this rapidly evolving health crisis regarding Coronavirus (COVID-19) and will continue to update our community as more information, resources or guidance becomes available. We appreciate everyone’s support as we strive to protect the health & safety of our YMCA community and work together in the days ahead.

Here are our communications to our members, staff and community during this time.

MAY 22 COMMUNICATION

We have developed a comprehensive plan for our YMCA’s reopening, incorporating best practices from all available sources. We look forward to the day when we can reopen our YMCA. Since the release of Governor Baker’s phased reopening report, we are anxiously awaiting further details regarding the opening of our facilities including pools, licensed child care and summer camp. We do not have final guidelines or timelines from the Commonwealth related to our reopening but we are grateful that this day is on the horizon. Read more.

Read the May 22 Member Email

APRIL 15 COMMUNICATION

Video Message from Hockomock Area YMCA President Ed Hurley.

WATCH VIDEO

APRIL 8 COMMUNICATION

President Ed Hurley continues to ask members to stay with us. Anyone who would like to put their membership on hold were reminded of the process to contact our staff or if they had other membership requests to please reach out. To date, we have provided 13,322 grab and go meals in North Attleboro and Milford. Our distribution of free family size food bags continues on Wednesdays at all branches, providing 1,158 bags of groceries – with an estimated value of $50 per bag – to our neighbors and friends in need. Our emergency child care for children of first responders, medical and essential personnel continues – today we had 60 children in our childcare centers. Our Virtual Fitness programs continue – have over 50 videos and counting, providing our members to workout virtually with your favorite YMCA trainers and instructors every day. Read more.

Read the April 8 Member Email

MARCH 26 COMMUNICATION

To date, we have provided 5,729 grab and go meals in North Attleboro and Milford. Our distribution of free family size food bags continues on Wednesdays at all branches. Non-perishable food donations continue to be accepted. The response from our members and community have been overwhelming and we thank you for your support. Virtual fitness workouts have been created by our wellness staff – so far 34 videos – everything from yoga, total body conditioning, kickboxing, dance, tabata and more. Read more.

Read the March 26 Member Email

MARCH 23 COMMUNICATION

We began emergency child care today at our branches in Foxboro and Franklin – providing care for first responders, medical personnel, and any other essential personnel who have no other option. Food collection continues and we are grateful to all who donate. This Wednesday, we will distribute free family food bags of non-perishable foods to people in need at all 3 of our branches from 1pm to 2pm and 5pm to 6pm Read more.

Read the March 23 Member Email

MARCH 20 COMMUNICATION

Our Y President Ed Hurley shares our Y’s continued efforts with food collection & distribution, stories of grateful neighbors who have participated in the food bag distributions, as well as his gratitude to community partners for their contributions which are helping further our mission during these unprecedented times. Read more.

Read the March 20 Member Email

MARCH 18 COMMUNICATION

Staff Message from Hockomock Area YMCA President Ed Hurley.

MARCH 17 COMMUNICATION

In light of Governor Baker’s announcement limiting public gatherings due to our current public health crisis, we expect our YMCA will be closed until April 7th. Our YMCA is a charitable not for profit organization and our mission work will continue during this unprecedented time. Read more.

Read the March 17 Member Email

MARCH 15 COMMUNICATION

We are suspending non-essential programs and closing our facilities effective Monday, March 16, 2020 until further notice. We will be open for essential child care and food distribution & collection at Hockomock Area YMCA branches. Read More.

Read the March 15 Member Email

Our YMCA is working with school nutrition departments and community partners to ensure that children and families have meals when schools are closed. No advanced sign up or paperwork is required to receive a meal as outlined below. We are also collecting non-perishable food at all 3 of our facilities in Foxboro, Franklin and North Attleboro. Read More.

Read Food Distribution Information

Food Request Collection Information

MARCH 13, 2020

Our YMCA is promoting social distancing particularly in our fitness centers and suspending events with 100 people or more, limiting group exercise class attendance, postponing Prescription for a Healthy Lifestyle programs such as LIVESTRONG at the YMCA, MS Wellness and Diabetes Prevention. Read More.

Read March 13 Member Email

MARCH 11, 2020

Our YMCA continues to reinforce our commitment to providing a safe experience for everyone who enters our YMCA and are staying informed of current health concerns. Staff response team continues to conduct daily meetings to proactively plan our response. Enhanced cleaning and disinfecting continues at all of facilities with particular emphasis on high traffic and high touch areas. Read More.

Read the March 11 Member Email

MARCH 5, 2020

We are monitoring information from the CDC, state officials and our local board of health departments and doing all we can to prevent the spread of illness, sharing preventative measures with our staff and members, and continuing to sanitize and disinfect our YMCAs thoroughly every day and night. Read More.

Read the March 5 Member Email

For further information, we encourage you to refer to the following links:

Posted on: Saturday, May 23rd, 2020

Latest Communication Regarding COVID-19

MAY 22, 2020 MEMBER COMMUNICATION

Dear Hockomock Area YMCA Members,

Our Y’s mission work has continued during our closure. We are proud to be feeding neighbors in need and providing emergency child care for essential personnel. Through yesterday, we have provided 68,865 meals and 8,370 bags of food.

For the past two months, our YMCA staff have been preparing and enhancing our facilities for your return. We have also developed a comprehensive plan for our YMCA’s reopening, incorporating best practices from all available sources. We will be sharing this plan with our members before we welcome you back.

Like all of you, we look forward to the day when we can reopen our YMCA. Since Monday’s release of Governor Baker’s phased reopening report, we are anxiously awaiting further details regarding the opening of our facilities including pools, licensed child care and summer camp. As of this morning, we do not have final guidelines or timelines from the Commonwealth related to our reopening but we are grateful that this day is on the horizon. Rest assured, we will continue preparing our facilities and training our staff for your return.

We anticipate our branches will open during the state’s Phase 3.

Our current understanding is that licensed child care programming will reopen after June 29th.

And we remain optimistic that summer camp will open during Phase 2. Our camp team is following the guidelines provided by the CDC and partnering with the American Camping Association and YMCA of the USA to best prepare for this unique camp season.

We understand these are uncertain times and we are grateful to the many families who have signed up for summer camp. We encourage those interested in camp to sign up now as spots may be limited. Visit hockymca.org/camp for our current offerings. Our refund policy has been modified allowing cancellations up to 72 hours before the start of your camp session to receive a full refund.

Although we know that camp will look different this summer, our Y’s unique camp spirit will be alive and well, along with our commitment to provide a safe, quality and memorable experience for all campers.

As more information is available, we will provide updates via email and on our website.

Thank you for your continued support and all of us look forward to seeing you soon.

Sincerely,
Ed Hurley
President
Hockomock Area YMCA

CLICK HERE for all our COVID-19 Communications

Posted on: Wednesday, April 1st, 2020

Swim Techniques You Can Practice at Home

Our YMCA Aquatics team has put together dry-land home activities—no pool required! These home activities help to develop good form and build stamina. When the skill has been mastered on land, it becomes easier to perform in the water.

Swim Lesson Technique: Back Float

Swim Lesson Technique: Back Glide

Swim Lesson Technique: Butterfly

Swim Lesson Technique: Dive

Swim Lesson Technique: Flip Turn

Swim Lesson Technique: Front Crawl

Swim Lesson Technique: Front Float

Swim Lesson Technique: Front Glide

Swim Lesson Technique: Sidestroke

Swim Lesson Technique: Submerge

Swim Lesson Technique: Swim on Front

For more than 160 years, the YMCA has nurtured potential and united communities across America to create lasting, meaningful change. Everything the Y does is in service of building a better us. One of the most effective ways to accomplish this is to teach youth, teens, and adults to swim, so they can stay safe around water and learn the skills they need to make swimming a lifelong pursuit for staying healthy.

Y swim instructors are nationally certified. Their training includes CPR, AED, First Aid and Oxygen Administration. Swim lessons provide important life skills that could save a life and will benefit students for a lifetime.


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HOCKOMOCK AREA YMCA

300 Elmwood Street
North Attleboro, MA 02760
 508.695.7001

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HOCKOMOCK AREA YMCA LOCATIONS

BERNON FAMILY BRANCH

45 Forge Hill Road
Franklin, MA 02038

 508.528.8708

INVENSYS FOXBORO BRANCH

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Foxboro, MA 02035

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HURLEY FAMILY BRANCH

300 Elmwood Street
North Attleboro, MA 02760

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MANSFIELD ARTS & EDUCATION CENTER

40 Balcom Street
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