The Nishna Valley Family YMCA in Atlantic typically has many family fun events taking place during the summer. This year is no exception. Tamara Gibson, Kids Fun Fitness Coordinator at the Y, says one event that will be held June 14^th, makes sure kids stay cool and have a great time. “Water Fun in the Sun” takes place from 2-to 4-pm outside, on the north side of the Atlantic Middle School.

Gibson says the Atlantic Firefighters bring one of their trucks and make a giant “Slip-n-slide.” Last year, the firefighters built a giant sprinkler. This year there will be water fights and bounce houses, as well. Something new this year she says, is that the activities will be open to kids as young as those in the 2^nd grade, as long as they are accompanied by an adult. 

Last year, 99 kids participated in the event. Gibson says the number of kids currently signed-up is “pretty low,” but they typically get last minute registrations. Parents are asked to register early, if possible, because there is a waiver of liability involved. The waiver is specifically with regard to the Slip-n-Slide. 

Gibson says a snack will be served in the YMCA from 2:30-to 3:30-p.m., if the kids want to take a break from the wet-n-wild fun. Another activity third-graders and up can enjoy, is the National Guard rock climbing wall, which will be set-up June 19^th, from 2-until 4-pm just outside of the YMCA, at 1100 Maple Street. Gibson says the 30-foot rock wall was also in town last year, but there are some changes this year that will allow older students to participate.

She says high school and college-age students are welcome to partake in the activity. In addition, there will be a “Gladiator Obstacle Course,” “Boot Camp,” Flight Simulator and bounce house for the younger kids. Parents don’t have to worry about their kids falling from the rock wall, because as with real, military training, there are safety restraints to control their ascent and descent. Participants wear a weighted harness that slows them down when they come down. 

No special skills are needed to climb the wall, but all participants age18 and under, will be required to have a release signed by a parent or adult guardian prior to climbing and repelling. The event will be cancelled if there it is raining, or winds over 30-miles per hour, for safety reasons. Registrations are necessary by no later than June 18^th. For more information, call the Nishna Valley Family YMCA at 712-243-3934.