Favorite camp events include the Color Run and Apache Relay, Lip Sync Showcase, Camp JCC Gala, and Carnival Colossal. Daily fun happens with spirit days such as Crazy Hair Day, Tacky Tourist Day, Neon Day, and Tie-Dye Day, along with summer staples such as H2O Day, Watermelon Wednesday, and the Stars & Stripes Pool Party.

 Every morning at Camp JCC begins with Boker Tov, a camp-wide celebration of songs, cheers, and laughter, setting the tone for a joyful day, and each week closes with Shabbat blessings, songs, and, of course, challah for all.

Camp JCC is the ultimate all-in-one day camp summer experience—offering something for every child. Campers swim twice daily (including instructional swim), play sports, create arts and crafts, explore nature, and participate in music, drama, and classic camp games like gaga.

 Open to children of all backgrounds, faiths, and abilities, Camp JCC is a welcoming, inclusive community where kids can try new things, build confidence, and make lasting friendships. 

Camp JCC has a strong commitment to safety, low camper-to-staff ratios, and a caring team that ensures every child feels seen, supported, and successful. 

“Camp JCC is more than just camp, it’s a place where kids grow,” says Betty Ann Levin, executive vice president, United Jewish Federation of Tidewater and Simon Family JCC.

 Fun and values go hand in hand at Camp JCC. All activities are designed to help campers build confidence, character, and connection through core Jewish values:

• Simcha (Joy): Celebrating each day with laughter, energy, and positivity. 

• Chaverut (Friendship): Building meaningful relationships rooted in kindness and respect.

• Ometz Lev (Courage): Encouraging campers to try new things and step outside their comfort zones.

• Arvut (Community): Creating a strong sense of belonging through shared traditions and experiences.

• Achrayut (Responsibility): Teaching accountability and leadership in everyday moments.

• Kehilah (Inclusivity): Welcoming and celebrating campers of all backgrounds.

Through these values, Camp JCC creates a community where every camper feels they belong—and leaves with skills that last far beyond summer.

For information, go to campjcc.org.

Kate-Lynn Cipolla is director of Camp JCC. She may be reached at klcipolla@ujft.org.

 To keep the kids fueled for the festivities, a “Championship Snack Mix” featuring a savory blend of Cheez-Its, popcorn, cheese balls, pretzels, and party mix was enjoyed by all. This custom snack was the perfect addition as the energy shifted from the court to the screen. The night wrapped up by gathering to enjoy a screening of Cars 2 –  the perfect way to wind down and celebrate a great event.

 The next Kids Night Out is slated for Saturday, May 16. Registration is open. Since many favorite camp counselors will be there to join in the fun, be sure to register soon. 

To learn more about Kids Night Out, School Days Out, Camp JCC, children’s classes, and more, contact Kate-Lynn Cipolla, Camp JCC director, at klcipolla@ujft.org or 757-321-2306. 

 Messy Makers is officially in its second season, becoming the ultimate sensory riot for explorers aged three to six years old. This isn’t an average quiet art class where kids stay inside the lines; it is a high-energy, five-week exploration lab where the primary goal is to be wonderful and gloriously messy. These little creators are currently diving headfirst into a world of texture and color once a week, asking “what happens if I mix this?” and getting to hear a resounding “let’s find out!” every single time. From the mind-bending stretch of Oobleck and the fluffy wonder of cloud dough to the spectacular foam of elephant’s toothpaste and 3D puffy paint masterpieces, the innovation happening in this class is off the charts.

 Meanwhile, the air smells incredible every week as Reagan Goode leads her third season of Little Bakers and Chefs. This is a real-deal culinary adventure where young foodies in grades one through five are becoming absolute kitchen rockstars. These aspiring chefs sharpen their skills by whisking, pouring, and creating from-scratch treats that would make a professional baker jealous. Everything from savory cheese quesadillas and fresh smoothies to gooey cinnamon rolls, sugar cookies, vibrant fruit pizzas, and seasonal pumpkin muffins are on the menu. The confidence these kids are gaining is unmatched as they master new techniques and explore bold flavors. Plus, they are bringing home culinary skills and a sense of pride that will last a lifetime.

 Since children’s classes do not take place during the summer, the upcoming fall sessions are the next big opportunity for children to join the fun. To ensure every age group gets their time to shine, Goode switches the age requirements each season. This means that the fall will kick off with a 5-week session of Kitchen Kiddos for little chefs ages 3–6, followed by another highly anticipated return of Little Bakers and Chefs for the older students.

 Registration for these high-demand classes go fast. 

To learn more about Kids Night Out, School Days Out, Camp JCC, children’s classes, and more, contact Kate-Lynn Cipolla, Camp JCC director, at klcipolla@ujft.org or 757-321-2306. 

 The night was a whirlwind of high-energy activity, with the ultimate glow party as kids dove into a variety of neon games with music. Between dance sets, many gathered at the crafting stations for bracelet making, creating personalized neon mementos of the evening. The constant laughter and the music’s rhythm created an unforgettable atmosphere where every child had the chance to shine, play, and express their creativity in a safe, fun-filled environment that celebrated friendship and community. 

 As the festivities ended, a cinematic finale helped wind down the evening, with Encanto on the big screen. The transition from a vibrant dance party to a cozy experience was the perfect way to end the event, especially with plenty of popcorn to go around. 

To learn more about Kids Night Out, School Days Out, Camp JCC, children’s classes, and more, contact Kate-Lynn Cipolla, Camp JCC director, at klcipolla@ujft.org or 757-321-2306. 

 To celebrate American Heart Month, the day’s theme was all about heart health. Campers began the morning by brainstorming ways to keep their bodies strong, highlighting the importance of eating colorful fruits and vegetables and staying consistent with exercise. The group then transitioned from theory to practice, heading to the gym for a full-body stretch before diving into high-energy running games that kept everyone’s heart rates up and spirits high.

The afternoon balanced this physical activity with creativity and play. During the art session, campers explored color theory by creating vibrant heart masterpieces. To make their art pop, they learned to distinguish between warm tones, such as the reds, oranges, and yellows of fire, and cool tones, such as the blues, greens, and purples of a calm ocean. This creativity carried over into ‘Camper’s Choice’ where campers made fuse bead designs and strung together custom bracelets and necklaces with colorful pony beads, or participated in ‘Just Dance’. 

 The energy reached a peak back in the gym with a round of Musical Polyspots, a fast-paced favorite similar to musical chairs. Whether campers were splashing in the indoor pool or testing skills with tabletop games such as UNO, Spot It, and Hues and Cues, the day was a whirlwind of movement and laughter, as well as day of wellness and community, proving that a healthy heart is a happy heart.

To learn more about Kids Night Out, School Days Out, children’s classes, and more, contact Kate-Lynn Cipolla, Camp JCC assistant director, at klcipolla@ujft.org or 757-321-2306.

Get ready to hit the court and experience the madness! Children, ages 4–12, are invited to the Ultimate Bracket Bash Kids Night Out.

 The evening kicks off with basketball relays where campers can showcase their skills, followed by sports-themed arts and crafts. After working up a sweat, kids can cool down with a refreshing free swim before winding down for the night with a special snack and a movie finale. 

 Participants are encouraged to show their team spirit by arriving dressed in their favorite jerseys or team colors. Parents, remember to pack your child’s dinner to enjoy before the fun officially tips off. Space is limited. Register at JewishVA.org/KNO. 

To learn more about Kids Night Out, School Days Out, Camp JCC, children’s classes and more, contact Kate-Lynn Cipolla, Camp JCC director, at klcipolla@ujft.org or 757-321-2306. 

Sandler Family Campus

When school is out, Camp JCC is in. Children currently in K-5th grade can look forward to a week filled with energy, friendship, and fun with a jam-packed schedule that includes free swim sessions in the indoor pool, creative arts and crafts projects, high-energy gym games, and plenty of time playing Gaga or exploring the incredible new playground. 

 Since every family has different needs during the break, the camp offers enrollment flexibility: choose individual days or dive into the full experience with the convenient 5-Day Package. In addition to the standard School Days Out program, an extended care option, 8 am – 6 pm is offered. Whether looking for a single day of reliable childcare or a full week of friendship and fun, Camp JCC provides a safe, vibrant environment where kids can truly be kids. 

 To make the week special, many beloved counselors from the summer will be there to lead the way, bringing that camp spirit and mentorship to every activity. These familiar faces ensure that campers feel at home from the moment they check in – surrounded by staff who know exactly how to turn an ordinary morning into an extraordinary memory.

 Each day will feature an exciting theme, ensuring that no two days feel the same. Campers will have the chance to embark on epic scavenger hunts, solving riddles and working as a team to uncover hidden treasures. Between high-energy activities, there will be time to make special snacks that are as tasty as they are fun to create, giving everyone a chance to express their culinary creativity. A variety of organized games to promote teamwork and sportsmanship will also take place. Whenever the weather permits, plenty of time will be spent outside, soaking up the fresh spring air and enjoying the sunshine.

 Spring Break Camp serves as a social bridge, allowing kids to step outside their usual school circles and bond with peers through shared challenges and laughter. Whether strategizing during a game of Gaga or collaborating on a masterpiece in the art room, these moments are where lifelong bonds begin. This is the perfect opportunity for children to reconnect with their camp friends and make new ones. Every single moment is meticulously designed to be an unforgettable break from the classroom routine. 

To secure a spot, visit www.campjcc.org.

To learn more about Kids Night Out, School Days Out, children’s classes, and more, contact Kate-Lynn Cipolla, Camp JCC director, at klcipolla@ujft.org or 757-321-2306.

Looking for the perfect plan for Presidents’ Day? When school is out, Camp JCC is in with School Days Out. 

 Children currently in K-5th grade can look forward to a day filled with energy, friendship, and fun. Highlights include free swim in the indoor pool, arts and crafts, gym games, and other projects alongside counselors and friends. 

 This day can be selected individually or as a part of any 5- or 10-day bundle. Whether looking for a single day of childcare or more, enrollment is flexible. To learn more or to register, visit www.campjcc.org. 

 While School Days Out hours are 9 am – 4 pm, an extended care option is available 8 am – 6 pm.

To learn more about Kids Night Out, School Days Out, Camp JCC, children’s classes and more, contact Kate-Lynn Cipolla, Camp JCC assistant director, at klcipolla@ujft.org or 757-321-2306. 

As the community gathers for the Big Saturday Night celebration of Jewish Film, parents no longer must choose between cultural enrichment and childcare. Camp JCC will present a vibrant alternative for the younger generation: the Neon Eras Kids Night Out.

Children ages 4–12 are invited to step into a time machine of “Neon Nostalgia.” To make the night truly shine, children are encouraged to arrive decked out in their brightest neon attire. Whether it’s head-to-toe 80s fluorescent, 90s electric grunge, or Y2K shimmer, those bold colors will pop under the blacklights. 

 Plans are for a night packed with activities designed to burn off energy and spark creativity. The evening kicks off with a Glow Party, featuring neon games and a Friendship Bracelet station where children can craft and trade handmade mementos, followed by a free swim session in a supervised, safe environment with a Certified Lifeguard present. To ensure the kids stay fueled for the fun, parents are asked to pack a dinner for their children to enjoy before the main festivities begin. As the night winds down, everyone will watch a movie and eat popcorn. 

Extended flexibility will also be offered for parents attending the Big Saturday Night film event. If the film runs past the 9 pm event conclusion, simply reach out in advance to coordinate a later pickup time. To ensure a smooth wrap-up for staff, all children must be picked up by 10:30 pm.

 Spaces are limited, so secure spots soon for the ultimate Saturday win-win at JewishVA.org/KNO.

To learn more about Kids Night Out, School Days Out, Camp JCC, children’s classes and more, contact Kate-Lynn Cipolla, Camp JCC assistant director, at klcipolla@ujft.org or 757-321-2306. 

 Activities included crafts, games, sports, Camper’s Choice, STEM projects, daily free swim, and Israeli culture with Tidewater’s Shinshinim Noga Yaniv and Yarden Lahan. 

 As a part of the Camp JCC School Days Out program, myriad options were available for families – multi-day packages, as well as individual days – to attend. Since many school calendars are not aligned with each other, the option to customize schedules enabled campers to participate in class holiday parties, holiday travel plans, and the fun of Camp JCC.

 Camp JCC School Days Out is open to Kindergarteners through fifth graders. More information, pricing, and registration can be found at campjcc.org. Registration is open for Spring Break/Passover Break, which is already filling up.

To learn more about Kids Night Out, School Days Out, children’s classes, and more, contact Kate-Lynn Cipolla, Camp JCC assistant director, at klcipolla@ujft.org or 757-321-2306.To learn more about Camp JCC, or to hear about year-round opportunities for teens in the community, contact Sierra Lautman, senior director of Jewish Innovation, at SLautman@UJFT.org or 757-965-6107.