Kids can get active this Easter at SOAK

KIDS can enjoy all the outdoors has to offer this Easter with the return of the YMCA’s Recreation Camp in Anglesea.

The Summer Outdoor Adventure Kids program (SOAK) will run for seven days in total over the Easter Holidays, with week one activities held on Wednesday April 4 and Thursday April 5 and week two running Monday April 9-Friday April 13.

Designed to get kids outdoors and active, close to 50 kids between 6-12 years of age enjoyed canoeing, bush cooking, cubby building and yabbying when the program ran for the first time in January.

Amanda Carson said her two children aged 12 and nine had an amazing experience and were looking forward to the opportunity to return to the camp in April.

“They had the most fabulous time in the great outdoors at SOAK. It took them back to the basics of having fun in nature – lots of adventure and laughs and they can’t wait for this Easter holiday program,” Ms Carson said.

The program developed by the YMCA in collaboration with local educators is an alternative to traditional vacation care programs and is run by qualified teachers.

The program will offer nature play, environmental education and feature visits from a VicHealth Play ranger; specialising in circus, theatre and musical outdoor activities.

Organiser Chloe Messner said kids are given the opportunity to enjoy activities often for the first time in a safe and controlled environment.

“During the school term kids spend a lot of time indoors and engaged in highly organised and controlled activities, so the holidays are a great chance for lots of independent play outside,” Ms Messner said.

“Days at SOAK are filled with bike riding, swimming, climbing and building and exploring, it’s about making new friends and some lifelong memories.”

The holiday program is available for kids 6-12 years of age with a shuttle bus scheduled to run to and from the camp departing from a central Torquay location.

For further information and bookings, phone YMCA Anglesea Recreation Camp on 5967 2599 or visit eventbrite.com.au and look up “Anglesea”.