Youth Programs and Activities

Aqua Toddler Swim / Sensory Time

Monday - Friday  ▶ 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
Ages 0–4 with adult present 
$50 for 10 punches or $90 for 20 punches
1 punch visit = 1 parent and 1 child 
Free for members!

Time specific for families with children sensitive to loud noises or big splashes of water.  During this time, all fountains, slides and water features are turned off.  Children can explore the zero depth, shallow water and therapy pool without fear of big kids splashing.  This isn't a swim lesson and won't be instructor led.  Parents must be in the water with their children.  

Infant Aquatic Survival Swim (Nonwalking)

This six-week program teaches infants 6 months to 2 years (typically nonwalkers) to roll over from a face-down or submerged position onto their backs to relax and breathe. Lessons are 15 minutes, one-on-one, four days a week. Instructor: Mary Jo

Monday - Thursday  ▶ January 5-February 12 ▶ Times Vary ▶  Register

Monday - Thursday  ▶ February 16-March 26 ▶ Times Vary ▶  Register

Monday - Thursday  ▶ March 30-May 7 ▶ Times Vary ▶  Register

Infant Aquatic Survival Swim (Walking)

This eight-week program teaches toddlers and younger children the swim-float-swim sequence. Children learn to swim a short distance with their face fully submerged, to roll onto their back, float, and rest whenever they need to breathe, and flip back onto their tummy to continue to swim to safety while fully clothed. Lessons are one-on-one, and four days a week for eight weeks. Instructor: Mary Jo

Monday - Thursday  ▶ January 5-February 26 ▶ Times Vary ▶  Register

Monday - Thursday  ▶ March 2-April 23 ▶ Times Vary ▶  Register

MJ's Kids

Mary Jo Klier works with children specifically focusing on strokes and stroke development.  This punch pass class includes two 15-minute sessions.  The instructor and guardian will determine times and days that work best for them.  

Punch Pass Program ▶ Register at Merriam Community Center Welcome Desk 

2 punches: $50 / 4 punches: $100 / $6 punches: $150 / 8 punches: $200

KU Sensory Enhanced Aquatics - YOUTH

This program provides swim lessons for children with autism spectrum disorders. Individual and small-group lessons are available to meet the children's learning needs. Instructors combine traditional learn-to-swim methods with sensory strategies and evidence-based instructional methods matched to the unique needs of each child. With support from donors and the successful collaboration with Merriam Parks and Recreation to host an annual Swim-a-thon fundraiser, Sensory Enhanced Aquatics can provide scholarships to swimmers needing financial support. Anyone interested in information regarding scholarships can reach out directly to Kayla Hammer. Instructor: The University of Kansas Medical Center Department of Occupational Therapy Education Faculty Staff.

Thursdays   ▶ January 29-April 30 ▶  6-6:30 p.m.  ▶ Registration begins December 11 at 6 p.m.

Thursdays   ▶ January 30-May 1 ▶  6:35-7:05 p.m.  ▶ Registration begins December 11 at 6 p.m.

Thursdays   ▶ January 30-May 1 ▶  7:10-7:40 p.m.  ▶ Registration begins December 11 at 6 p.m.

Junior Dolphins

Take the plunge with Junior Dolphins! This program helps advancing swimmers build skills, endurance, and confidence while loving the sport.

Saturdays, January 10-31  ▶  Noon-1 p.m.   ▶  Register 

Saturdays, February 7-28  ▶  Noon-1 p.m.   ▶  Register 

Merriam Dolphins Spring Clinic

This clinic helps swimmers moving up from lessons or pre-competitive team sharpen skills, endurance, and confidence while loving the sport. 

Saturdays, March 21 & 28  ▶  11 a.m.-1 p.m.   ▶  Register 

Saturdays, April 18 & 25  ▶ 11 a.m.-1 p.m. ▶  Register

MJ's Kids

Mary Jo Keiler works with children specifically focusing on strokes and stroke development. This punch pass class includes two-15 minute sessions. The instructor and guardian will determine times and days that work best for them.  

Punch Pass Program ▶ Register at Merriam Community Center Welcome Desk 

2 punches: $50 / 4 punches: $100 / 6 punches: $150 / 8 punches: $200

MJ's Spring Swim Clinic

This swim clinic will prepare your child for the summer swim season. The class meets once a week. Instructor: Mary Jo

Sundays  ▶ February 15-March 29  ▶ Register

Sundays ▶  April 12-May 17   ▶ Register

Ages 5-8 meet from 10-10:45 a.m.

Ages 9-15 meet from 10:45-11:45 a.m.

SuperKids Level 1

Superkids is an entry-level age group competitive instructional swim program. Emphasis on learning correct swim strokes, streamlines, and turns. Encourage 2x weekly attendance during weekdays plus optional Saturday swim. 

Level 1 is entry level. Swimmers need to be comfortable in the water and able to swim-float-swim. Ages 3-7 or permission from Mary Jo.

Monthly ▶ December  ▶  Register

Monthly ▶ January-April  ▶  Register 

Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays  are 4:30-5 p.m.

Saturdays are 10:30-11 a.m.

SuperKids Level 2

Superkids is an entry-level age group competitive instructional swim program. Emphasis on learning correct swim strokes, streamlines, and turns. Encourage 2x weekly attendance during weekdays plus optional Saturday swim. 

Level 2 is medium to advanced level. Emphasis on correct swim technique for the four competitive strokes, streamlines, and turns plus an introduction to interval training. This level is the foundation of the KC Swim Academy, a USA Swimming competitive team. Instructor Mary Jo

Monthly ▶ December ▶ Register

Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays  are 5-5:45 p.m.

Saturdays are 11-11:45 a.m.

Super Kids 3

Superkids is an entry-level age group competitive instructional swim program. Emphasis on learning correct swim strokes, streamlines, and turns. Encourage 2x weekly attendance during weekdays plus optional Saturday swim. 

Level 3 is advanced level. Emphasis is on correct swim technique for the four competitive strokes, streamlines, and turns, plus an introduction to interval training. This level is the foundation of the KC Swim Academy, a USA Swimming competitive team. 

Monthly ▶ December ▶ Register

Youth Fitness Equipment Orientation

Kids between the age of 12 and 15 can work out in the fitness center after they complete a youth fitness equipment orientations with a guardian. 

• Learn rules of the fitness center and walking track
• Learn proper equipment usage
• Learn basic safe exercise techniques

Youth equipment orientations are FREE.  Please speak to someone at the Welcome Desk to schedule an appointment. 

Once they've completed an orientation and are ready to use the equipment, they can check in at the Welcome Desk at each visit .  

Aiki Kids Child/Parent Fundamentals

Your child will learn basic stretching, rolling, ki-aikido self-defense techniques, and ki-meditation techniques. This class is designed to strengthen bodies and relationships through sweat, smiles and laughter. Instructor Vic (4th degree)

Tuesdays  ▶  Monthly  ▶  December  ▶ 4:30–6 p.m.   ▶   Register

Tuesdays  ▶  Monthly ▶ January-April  ▶ 4:30–6 p.m.   ▶   Register

American Youth Soccer Organization (AYSO) Play! Soccer

During this weekly training session, your child will learn, and enjoy the game of soccer through activities, drills, and small sided games!  All participants earn a shirt. All equipment is provided. This program will be held at Waterfall Park.  Instructor: AYSO Soccer

Kawaii Kids Martial Arts

Watch your kids learn practical street smarts and become more aware of their surroundings in this fun, proven method. Children 4 years old must be accompanied by a guardian. Instructors: John/Rafael (2nd degree)

Wednesdays & Saturdays ▶  Monthly ▶ December ▶ 4:45-5:45 p.m.  / 11:30 a.m.-12:20 p.m.  ▶  Register

Wednesdays & Saturdays ▶  Monthly ▶  January- April  ▶   4:45-5:45 p.m.  / 11:30 a.m.-12:20 p.m.  ▶ Register

Tumbling for Tots

Tumbling class introduces basic tumbling skills in a supportive environment. Children will work on balance, coordination, strength, and flexibility through a variety of activities. You'll see them build confidence, get creative, and have fun with your peers. Instructor: Ellie

Thursdays ▶  Monthly ▶  January-April ▶  4:45-5:30 p.m.  ▶ Register

Merriam All-Star Basketball Academy

Merriam Community Center Basketball Academy offers a dynamic and engaging environment for basketball enthusiasts at all skill levels. Our academy covers essential aspects of basketball, such as shooting techniques ball handling, passing drills, defensive strategies, and game IQ. Instructor: Chloe/Cole

March 16-19 ▶ Ages 5-8  ▶ Noon-1:30 p.m.  ▶ Register

March 16-19 ▶ Ages 9-12  ▶ 1:30-3 p.m. ▶  Register

Junior Dolphins

Take the plunge with Junior Dolphins! This program helps advancing swimmers build skills, endurance, and confidence while loving the sport.

Saturdays, January 10-31  ▶  Noon-1 p.m.   ▶  Register 

Saturdays, February 7-28  ▶  Noon-1 p.m.   ▶  Register 

Merriam Dolphins Spring Clinic

This clinic helps swimmers moving up from lessons or pre-competitive team sharpen skills, endurance, and confidence while loving the sport. 

Saturdays, March 21 & 28  ▶  11 a.m.-1 p.m.   ▶  Register 

Saturdays, April 18 & 25  ▶ 11 a.m.-1 p.m. ▶  Register

Merriam Dolphins Swim and Dive Team

Be a part of Merriam’s summer swim and dive teams! Athletes can choose to swim only, dive only, or swim and dive for the same fee! Swim caps provided. Athletes will need a blue suit.  Information and schedules for the 2026 season will be available at late spring. 

Precompetitive Swim

This team is designed for young swimmers who are learning to swim and dive and working on increasing their skills and endurance.  This isn't intended to be swim lessons.  A qualified simmer should be able to swim across the pool for 25 yards.  They don't need to know all four strokes.

Competitive Swim

This team is designed for high-level swimmers who are able to swim 50 yards without stopping and know all four strokes.

Additional information will be available late spring.

Too cold to play in the park? Ride and slide with us during Preschool Indoor Playground! Drive, pull, or push your favorite Little Tykes vehicles. Parents must supervise their children during playground time.

Tuesdays   ▶   9:30–11:30 a.m.  
$2/child   ▶   Punch cards available: $10 for 10 visits

FREE FOR MEMBERS

Swim lessons are all-inclusive and specific for each child’s skill set and include lifesaving and safety techniques. Register your child based on age. For preschool and youth lessons, class levels are used to ensure your child is successful. Children are evaluated at the beginning of each session and placed in the appropriate class level. Children should be able to work with an instructor and participate in swim lessons independently and willingly.

Parent/Child: 6 months–2 years

This lesson is designed as an introduction for parents and children alike. Learn safety tips while your child becomes familiar in the water and picks up basic water movement taught through songs, dances, and other fun forms of teaching. This class takes place in the indoor therapy pool. Parents must be in the water with their children.

Saturdays  ▶ January 3-February 28  ▶  Register

Mondays & Wednesdays  ▶ March 2-18  ▶  Register 

Saturdays  ▶ March 14-May 9  ▶  Register

Mondays & Wednesdays  ▶ March 30-April 15  ▶  Register

Mondays, Tuesdays & Wednesdays  ▶  April 27-May 6   ▶  Register

Preschool: 3–5 years old

Your child will learn basic water safety skills while also growing more comfortable in the water. Students will learn how to safely enter and exit the water, blow bubbles underwater, float, kick, and work on arm movements. 

Mondays & Wednesdays  ▶ December 1-17  ▶ Register 

Saturdays  ▶ January 3-February 28  ▶ Register 

Mondays & Wednesdays  ▶  January 5-21  ▶Register

Mondays & Wednesdays  ▶  February 2-18  ▶  Register 

Mondays & Wednesdays  ▶  March 2-18  ▶Register 

Saturdays  ▶ March 14-May 9  ▶ Register

Mondays & Wednesdays  ▶  March 30-April 15  ▶  Register 

Mondays, Tuesdays & Wednesdays  ▶  April 27-May 6  ▶  Register

Youth: 6–12 years old

Beginning swimmers are introduced to basic stroke movement and will learn how to be more comfortable in the water. More advanced swimmers are instructed in stroke technique, endurance, and safety skills. 

Mondays & Wednesdays  ▶  December 1-17  ▶  Register 

Saturdays  ▶  January 3-February 28  ▶  Register 

Mondays & Wednesdays  ▶  January 5-21  ▶  Register  

Mondays & Wednesdays  ▶  February 2-18  ▶  Register

Mondays & Wednesdays  ▶  March 2-18  ▶  Register 

Saturdays  ▶  March 14-May 9  ▶  Register

Mondays & Wednesdays  ▶  March 30-April 15  ▶ Register 

Mondays, Tuesdays & Wednesdays  ▶  April 27-May 6 ▶  Register

Adult: 13+

Adult lessons are designed to help each participant reach personal goals. Whether you want to be a proficient lap swimmer, learn to float, or acquire water safety skills, instructors will work to ensure your success!  

Mondays & Wednesdays  ▶  December 1-17  ▶  Register

Mondays & Wednesdays  ▶  January 5-21  ▶  Register

Mondays & Wednesdays  ▶  February 2-18  ▶  Register 

Mondays & Wednesdays  ▶  March 2-18  ▶  Register 

Private and Semi-Private Lessons

Get four, 30-minute lessons tailored just for you. Available for ages 3+ . $100 for private lessons, $90 for semi-private.

More Information 

Crafting Through the Seasons

Celebrate the seasons all year long with fun, hands-on holiday and seasonal crafts! Children will create unique projects using a mix of natural materials and festive supplies. Each month features a new theme, giving kids a chance to explore their creativity, take home their masterpiece, and enjoy time crafting with family. Register one week before each activity. Instructor: Logan

Thursday, February 5  ▶  Valentine Makers  ▶  ages 3-12  ▶  5:30–6:30 p.m.   ▶   Register

Thursday, March 5  ▶  Lucky Charms & Crafts  ▶  ages 3-12  ▶  5:30–6:30 p.m.   ▶   Register

Thursday, April 2  ▶  Hop Into Crafts  ▶  ages 3-12  ▶  5:30–6:30 p.m.   ▶   Register