Youth & Teens
Youth Specialty Programs
We host a variety of clubs, classes, and camps for kids and teens with all sorts of interests such as science, building, babysitting, art, and much more! Offerings change each session, so try a little of everything!
Girls Night Out
Girls Night Out (GNO) is a 7-week program for 5th & 6th graders. Meet weekly with other 5th & 6th graders, YMCA staff, and adult female volunteers to discuss topics, have fun, and take part in exciting activities.
Teen Adventure Program (TAP)
The Teen Adventure Program (TAP) is a unique all day summer program for youth ages 11-14. It operates Monday-Friday from 7:00 am – 6:00 pm and exists to help families find age-appropriate activities for their middle school child. Teens will enjoy theme weeks, adventure activities, career exploration, special events, games, volunteering, and more. The program runs throughout the summer and youth are able to register and attend as many weeks as they would like!
Teen Leadership Program
Spend a week learning leadership skills and techniques as a Junior Counselor (JC). During your week as a JC, you will have the opportunity to work side-by-side with our counselors. Your journey in the JC program will include how to lead a group of campers, teach arts & crafts and games, and how to work in a group with your fellow JCs.
Y Night
Y Nights are a time for 5th-7th graders to hang out with friends and make lots of new ones! This year, Y Night will be held weekly on Friday nights at our Broadview, East Side, and West Side locations and the last Friday of the month at our Ferguson Family YMCA. During Y Night, youth can swim, play games like basketball or GaGa, and participate in exciting theme activities each week. Youth will have an opportunity to connect with friends and participate in themed activities each week.
Youth Wellness Orientation
This program educates youth in wellness and fitness, establishes a lifestyle of fitness at a young age, and encourages parents and kids (ages 11-13) to work out together. The course encompasses the mission and core values of the YMCA, the benefits and risks of exercise, and the policies and etiquette of the Wellness Center.
Participants will learn how to use the cardiovascular equipment and the strength training machines. This program is free to Y members and can be scheduled at the front desk.
For kids 8-10 years old, check out our Family Wellness Orientation.
Zones
Power Zone (ages 8-13)
Power Zone Jr. (ages 6-9)
Power Zones are open, active times at the Y. Our staff will keep kids busy playing games like dodgeball, basketball, and kickball, running through obstacle courses, or completing energizing fitness challenges. You can drop in for a bit or stay the whole time!
- For 6-7 year olds, a parent/guardian must remain in the Y facility and sign the child in and out of Power Zone.
Y Zone (up to age 13 + family)
While Power Zones are active and structured, Y Zone is a more relaxed environment. They offer a place to hang out with friends and family while enjoying games, craft projects, or special activities.
- Ages 8-13 can attend alone.
- A parent/guardian must remain in Y facility for 7-year-olds.
- Ages 6 and under must be accompanied by parent/guardian in Y Zone.