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 - Non-Walking

This 6-week program teaches infants 6 months to 1 year (typically non-walkers) to roll over from a face down or submerged position onto their backs to relax and breathe. Lessons are15 minutes, 1-on-1, and 4 days a week for 6 weeks. Instructor: Mary Jo

Monday–Thursday  ▶  Sept. 8-Oct. 16  ▶  Times Vary  ▶  Register

Monday–Thursday  ▶  Oct. 20-Dec. 4  ▶  Times Vary  ▶  Register

Infant Aquatic Survival Swim - Walking

This 8-week program teaches toddlers and younger children the swim-float-swim sequence.  Children will learn to swim a short distance with their face fully submerged, to roll onto their back, to float and rest whenever they need to breathe, and to flip back onto their tummy to continue to swim to safety while fully clothed.  Lessons are 1 on 1, and 4 days a week for 8 weeks. Instructor: Mary Jo

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

This program provides swim lessons for children with autism spectrum disorders. Individual and small-group lessons are available to meet 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  ▶  Sept. 11-Dec. 11  ▶ 6–6:30 p.m.  ▶  Register  ▶ Beginning August 15 at 6 p.m.

Thursdays  ▶  Sept. 11–Dec. 11  ▶ 6:35–7:05 p.m.  ▶  Register  ▶Beginning August 15 at 6 p.m.

Thursdays  ▶  Sept. 11–Dec. 11  ▶ 7:10-7:40 p.m.  ▶  Register  ▶Beginning August 15 at 6 p.m.

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

SuperKids 

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. Instructor: Mary Jo

LEVEL 1 

Entry level swimmers need to be comfortable in the water and able to swim-float-swim. Under age 5 permission required.

Monthly  ▶  Monday–Thursday / Saturday  ▶  Aug.   ▶  4:30–5:30 p.m. / 10:30–11 a.m.  ▶  Register 

Monthly  ▶  Monday–Thursday / Saturday  ▶ Sept.-Dec.   ▶  4:30–5:30 p.m. / 10:30–11 a.m.  ▶  Register 

LEVEL 2

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

Monthly  ▶  Monday–Thursday / Saturday  ▶   Aug.   ▶  5–5:45 p.m. / 11 a.m.–11:45 a.m.  ▶  Register 

Monthly  ▶  Monday–Thursday / Saturday  ▶   Sept.-Dec.   ▶  5–5:45 p.m. / 11 a.m.–11:45 a.m.  ▶  Register 

LEVEL 3

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

Monthly  ▶  Monday & Wednesday / Saturday  ▶   Sept.-Dec. ▶ 6-6:45 p.m. / 11 a.m.–12 p.m.  ▶  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

This class is designed to strengthen bodies and relationships through sweat, smiles, and laughter. Your child will learn basic ki-aikido self-defense and ki-meditation techniques. Parent participation is encouraged. Instructor: Derrick (1st degree) 

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

Tuesdays  ▶  Monthly  ▶  Sept.-Dec.  ▶ 4:30–5:30 p.m.   ▶  Register

Kawaii Kids Martial Arts

Kawaii is a popular Japanese term meaning cute. While it's kawaii to view kids in uniforms, it's also rewarding to see them learn practical street smarts. Kids become more aware of their surroundings in this fun, proven  method for children of all ages. Children 4 years old must be accompanied by a guardian. Instructors: Mick (6th degree) / Rafael (2nd degree)

Wednesdays  ▶  Monthly  ▶  August ▶ 4:45–5:45 p.m.  ▶ Register 

Saturdays  ▶  Monthly  ▶  August ▶  11:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.  ▶  Register 

Wednesdays  ▶  Monthly  ▶  September-December ▶ 4:45–5:45 p.m.  ▶  Register 

Saturdays  ▶  Monthly  ▶  September-December ▶  11:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.  ▶ Register  

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

AYSO Fall 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 proved. Sessions will meet at Waterfall Park. 

Saturdays  ▶  Sept. 13-Nov. 1  ▶  ages 5-12  ▶ 10-11:15 a.m.   ▶  Register

Gametimesportz Hoops Clinic

This basketball skill development clinic helps kids improve shooting and ball handling, building essential fundamentals for success on the court. With over 20 years of experience, the instructor uses proven methods for measurable results. Instructor: Vernon

Wednesdays  ▶  Sept. 3-24  ▶  ages 6-10  ▶ 6-7 p.m.   ▶  Canceled due to low enrollment

Wednesdays  ▶  Sept. 3-24  ▶  ages 11-14  ▶ 7-8:30 p.m.   ▶  Canceled due to low enrollment

Merriam All-Star Basketball Academy

This academy covers essential aspects of basketball, such as shooting techniques, ball handling, passing drills, defensive strategies, and game IQ. Instructors: Chloe / Cole

Tuesdays  ▶  Sept. 23-Oct. 28 ▶  ages 5-9  ▶ 4-5:30 p.m.  ▶  Register

Tuesdays  ▶  Sept. 23-Oct. 28 ▶  ages 9-12  ▶ 5:30-7 p.m.  ▶  Register

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.

Monday-Friday  ▶ Aug.4–8  ▶  Register

Saturdays  ▶ Sept.6–Oct. 11  ▶  Register

Saturdays  ▶ Oct. 18–Nov. 22  ▶  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. 

Monday-Friday  ▶ Aug. 4-8  ▶  Register

Mondays & Wednesdays  ▶  Sept. 8–24  ▶  Register

Saturdays  ▶ Sept. 6–Oct. 11  ▶  Register  

Mondays & Wednesdays  ▶  Oct. 6–22  ▶  Register 

Saturdays  ▶ Oct. 18–Nov. 22  ▶  Register  

Mondays & Wednesdays  ▶  Nov. 3-19 ▶  Register 

Mondays & Wednesdays  ▶ Dec. 1-17  ▶  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. 

Monday-Friday  ▶ Aug. 4-8  ▶  Register

Mondays & Wednesdays  ▶  Sept. 8–24  ▶  Register

Saturdays  ▶ Sept. 6–Oct. 11  ▶  Register 

Mondays & Wednesdays  ▶  Oct. 6–22  ▶  Register 

Saturdays  ▶ Oct. 18-Nov. 22  ▶ Register

Mondays & Wednesdays  ▶  Nov. 3-19 ▶  Register

Mondays & Wednesdays  ▶  Dec. 1-17 ▶  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  ▶   Sept. 8–24  ▶ Register

Mondays & Wednesdays  ▶   Oct. 6-22  ▶ Register

Mondays & Wednesdays  ▶   Nov. 3-19  ▶ Register

Mondays & Wednesdays  ▶   Dec. 1-17  ▶ Register

Junior Dolphins

This program is designed for students who want to be on the Merriam Dolphins swim team. The ideal student has gone through several rounds of swim lessons and is looking for more of a challenge. Students learn starts, flip turns, and swim team workouts.

Saturdays  ▶ Sept. 6–27 ▶  Register

Saturdays  ▶ Oct. 4-25 ▶  Register

Saturdays  ▶ Nov. 1-22 ▶  Register

Private and Semi-Private Lessons

Get four, 30-minute lessons tailored just for you. Available for ages 3+.

$90 for private lessons, $80 for semi-private. 

Learn More

Preschool P.R.E.P.

Get your kiddo prepped and ready at Preschool P.R.E.P! You and your child can play, research, explore, and participate in STEAM workshops that will help them get ready for kindergarten! $2 members, $3 nonmembers. Instructor: Logan

Thursday, September 25  ▶  Leafy Masterpiece ▶  11:15 a.m.–Noon ▶ Register

Thursday, October 23  ▶  Creepy Crawly Creations ▶  11:15 a.m.–Noon ▶ Register

Thursday, November 20  ▶  Gobble, Gobble, Build  ▶  11:15 a.m.–Noon ▶ Register

Thursday, December 18  ▶  Marshmallow Town ▶  11:15 a.m.–Noon ▶ Register

Merriam All-Star Basketball Academy

This academy covers essential aspects of basketball, such as shooting techniques, ball handling, passing drills, defensive strategies, and game IQ. Instructors: Chloe / Cole

Tuesdays  ▶  Sept. 23-Oct. 28 ▶  ages 5-9  ▶ 4-5:30 p.m.  ▶  Register

Tuesdays  ▶  Sept. 23-Oct. 28 ▶  ages 9-12  ▶ 5:30-7 p.m.  ▶  Register

Build-a-Plush Workshop

Create a lovable stuffed animal! Each kit includes your selected animal, a wishing star, stuffing, a birth certificate, and a transport bag. Choose your preferred animal for your kit, and provide a backup option in case of unavailable stock.  Instructor: Renee

Saturday, Nov. 8   ▶  10–11 a.m.  ▶ Register