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 2 years (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. 9-Oct. 17  ▶  Times Vary  ▶  Register

Monday–Thursday  ▶  Oct. 21-Dec. 5  ▶  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 the children's needs. The program follows the United States Masters Swimming Adult Learn-to-Swim curriculum with modifications as needed. We're proud to offer scholarships to all participants, with support from the USA Swimming Foundation. Instructor: The University of Kansas Medical Center Department of Occupational Therapy Education Staff.

Thursdays  ▶  Sept. 12-Dec. 12  ▶ 6:30–7 p.m.  ▶  Register  ▶ REGISTRATIONTBD

Thursdays  ▶  Sept. 12–Dec. 12  ▶ 7:05–7:35 p.m.  ▶  Register  ▶ REGISTRATIONTBD

Thursdays  ▶  Sept. 12–Dec. 12  ▶ 7:40-8:10 p.m.  ▶  Register  ▶ REGISTRATIONTBD

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  ▶ 4:30–5:30 p.m. / 10:30–11:30 a.m.  ▶  Register Aug. 

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

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  ▶   5–6 p.m. / 11 a.m.–12 p.m.  ▶  Register Aug.

Monthly  ▶  Monday–Thursday / Saturday  ▶   5–6 p.m. / 11 a.m.–12 p.m.  ▶  Register Sept.-Dec.

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  ▶   6-7 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  ▶  4:30–6 p.m.   ▶  Register Aug.

Tuesdays  ▶  Monthly  ▶  4:30–6 p.m.   ▶  Register Sept.-Dec.

Dance Expressions 1 & 2

Come explore the wonderful world of dance. Where imagination and movement come to life. Ballet/Tap combo. Students must have dance leotards, pink ballet shoes and black tap shoes. Instructor: Wendy, USASF Certified

Wednesdays  ▶  3–6 yrs.  ▶  Monthly  ▶  6–6:45 p.m.   ▶  Register

Wednesdays  ▶  7–12 yrs. ▶  Monthly  ▶  6:45–7:30 p.m.   ▶  Register

Jump-Start Gymnastics Beginner & Intermediate

These lessons are designed to introduce new tumbling skills in each class, focusing on improving balance and flexibility. Athletes must be able to perform a backbend from a standing position and return to a standing position independently to participate. An intermediate class is also available. Instructor: Wendy, USASF Certified

Beginner ▶  Tuesdays  ▶  Monthly  ▶  6:15–7 p.m.   ▶   Register

Intermediate ▶  Tuesdays  ▶  Monthly  ▶ 7-7:45 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)

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

Saturdays  ▶  Monthly  ▶ 11:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.  ▶ Register Sept.-Dec.

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

Wednesdays  ▶  Monthly  ▶  4:45–5:45 p.m.  ▶  Register Sept.-Dec.

Tumbling for Tots

Gymnastics is a fun and safe way for children to begin developing confidence and coordination. Each class focuses on improving balance, flexibility, coordination, and tumbling skills. These classes aren't designed for professional gymnastic competition but are fun ways to learn and improve basic tumbling skills. The age listed is a guideline, but skill level will take priority. Instructor:  Wendy, USASF Certified

Tuesdays ▶  Monthly  ▶  5:30–6:15 p.m.  ▶  Register Aug.

Tuesdays▶ Monthly ▶ 5:30–6:15 p.m.  ▶Register Sept.-Dec.

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.

Monday-Friday  ▶ Aug.5-9  ▶  Register

Saturdays  ▶ Sept.7–Oct. 12  ▶  Register

Saturdays  ▶ Oct. 26–Dec. 7  ▶  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.5-9  ▶  Register

Mondays & Wednesdays  ▶  Sept. 9–25  ▶  Register

Saturdays  ▶ Sept. 7–Oct. 12  ▶  Register  

Mondays & Wednesdays  ▶  Oct. 7–23  ▶  Register 

Saturdays  ▶ Oct. 26–Dec. 7  ▶  Register  

Mondays & Wednesdays  ▶  Nov. 4-20  ▶  Register 

Mondays & Wednesdays  ▶ Nov. 27–Dec 13  ▶  Register

Mondays & Wednesdays  ▶ Dec. 2-18  ▶  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.5-9  ▶  Register

Mondays & Wednesdays  ▶  Sept. 9–25  ▶  Register

Saturdays  ▶ Sept. 7–Oct. 12  ▶  Register 

Mondays & Wednesdays  ▶  Oct. 7–23  ▶  Register 

Saturdays  ▶ Oct. 26-Dec. 7  ▶ Register

Mondays & Wednesdays  ▶  Nov. 4-20 ▶  Register

Mondays & Wednesdays  ▶  Dec. 2-18 ▶  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. 9–25  ▶ Register

Mondays & Wednesdays  ▶   Oct.7-23  ▶ Register

Mondays & Wednesdays  ▶   Nov. 4-20  ▶ 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. 7–28 ▶  Register

Saturdays  ▶ Oct. 5-26 ▶  Register

Saturdays  ▶ Nov. 2-23 ▶  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!  Free for members, $5 nonmembers. Instructor: Margo

Thursday, September 26  ▶  Slime Time   ▶  11:15 a.m.–Noon ▶ Register

Thursday, October 31 ▶  Halloween Party   ▶  11:15 a.m.–Noon ▶ Register

Thursday, November 21 ▶  Gobble Gobble   ▶  11:15 a.m.–Noon ▶ Register

Thursday, December 19 ▶  Snowy Ornament   ▶  11:15 a.m.–Noon ▶ Register

Car Seat Inspections in Partnership with Safe Kids Johnson County

Get your kids' car seats inspected by nationally certified child passenger safety technicians. This event is co-hosted by the Merriam Police Department and Safe Kids Johnson County.  

FREE

Baby Sitters Club: Red Cross CPR Certification

The Baby Sitters Club provides Red Cross CPR training and certification. This class consists of instructor-led sessions, engaging games, and role-playing exercises. Pack a lunch - light snacks will be provided. Instructors: Ali/Erica

Saturday, November 2  ▶  9 a.m.-4 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. Register by Oct. 1. Instructor: Renee

Saturday, Nov. 9   ▶  10–11 a.m.  ▶ Register