YMCA staff are getting creative in their attempts to keep kids active, and parents are taking note.

The Y’s Vacation Camp — which ran Decmeber 26-30 — has seen a rise in participants compared to previous years. The mini-camp is designed to give kids a outdoor space to play during both winter and spring breaks, said Program Director Samantha Fagundes.

“We have 60 kids. That’s higher than we expected, but it’s great," Fagundes said. "Parents need somewhere to send their kids to have fun, and not just watch television and play video games.”

The all-day program — 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. — offers field trips to play laser tag and to indoor inflatable bounce parks. Slower days feature arts and crafts and themed dress up.

“I liked drawing stuff. I drew all kinds of things like aliens," said Brody Medeiros, 6, while taking a break from arts and crafts.

Peer Norah Burke, 9, enjoys the social aspect of the program.

“You can make new friends and see your old friends here,” she said.