Aquatics

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 12 at 6 p.m.

Thursdays   ▶ January 30-May 1 ▶  6:35-7:05 p.m.  ▶ Registration begins December 12 at 6 p.m.

Thursdays   ▶ January 30-May 1 ▶  7:10-7:40 p.m.  ▶ Registration begins December 12 at 6 p.m.

KU Sensory Enhanced Aquatics- ADULT

This program provides swim lessons for adults 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. 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 Staff

Wednesdays  ▶   January 28-April 29  ▶  6:30-7:15 p.m.   ▶   Registration begins December 12 at 6 p.m.

Wednesdays  ▶   January 28-April 29  ▶  7:20-8:05 p.m.   ▶   Registration  begins December 12 at 6 p.m.

Aqua Toddler / Sensory Time

Mondays-Friday  ▶  10:30-Noon
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

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

Saturdays are 11 a.m.-12 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

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.

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 

Aqua Fit  

This intermediate-level, low-impact aqua class combines cardio intervals and strength training, with water resistance recommended by doctors for optimal results. Instructor: Carey

Tuesdays & Thursdays  ▶  Monthly  ▶ Dec.  ▶  9-9:45 a.m.   ▶   Register

Tuesdays & Thursdays  ▶ Monthly  ▶  Jan.-April ▶  9-9:45 a.m.   ▶   Register

Aqua Flow - a Taijifit experience  

Taijifit is a series of slow movements and stretches that flow into the next without pause staying in constant motion connecting mind, body and breath.  Nothing to learn, just follow along.  Water provides a gentle resistance and added balance. Instructor: TBD

Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays  ▶  Monthly  ▶ Dec.  ▶  9:50-10:30 a.m.   ▶   Register

Mondays & Wednesdays   ▶ Monthly  ▶  Jan.-April ▶  9:50-10:30 a.m.   ▶   Register

Aqua Interval Fitness 

This class combines cardio and strength training intervals using noodles and dumbbells at varying intensities. Increase stamina, strength, flexibility, and joint range of motion. Appropriate for all fitness levels; ability to swim not necessary. Water shoes or sneakers are encouraged. Instructor: Maryellen

Tuesdays & Thursdays  ▶ Monthly ▶ Dec. ▶ 6-7 p.m.   ▶   Register

Tuesdays & Thursdays  ▶ Monthly ▶ Jan.-April ▶ 6-7 p.m.   ▶   Register

Cardio Splash 

This class is full of fun, energy, music, and laughs. Regardless of your age, size, or fitness level, Aqua Zumba enhances your overall fitness improves your stability and balance in and out of the water. Instructor: TBD

Monday, Wednesdays, Fridays   ▶ Monthly ▶ Dec. ▶  9-9:50 a.m.  ▶   Register 

Monday & Wednesdays  ▶ Monthly ▶ Jan.-April ▶  9-9:50 a.m.  ▶   Register

Warm Water Therapy 

Improve balance, reduce joint stiffness, increase flexibility, and have better overall mobility. This class is held in the warm water therapy pool. Instructor: Bennie

Mondays  ▶ Monthly ▶ Dec. ▶ 11:15 a.m.- 12 p.m.  ▶  Register 

Mondays  ▶ Monthly ▶ Jan.-April ▶ 11:15 a.m.- 12 p.m.   ▶   Register

Water Aerobics  

A moderate- to high-intensity class consisting of cardio and toning to improve cardiovascular endurance and muscle strength. Instructor: Phyllis

Saturdays ▶  Monthly ▶ Dec. ▶  8:30-9:30 a.m.  ▶ Register 

Saturdays   ▶  Monthly ▶ Jan.-April ▶  8:30-9:30 a.m.  ▶ Register