Youth Programs and Activities

Merriam Parks and Recreation offers many activities to keep kids active and engaged!

Our monthly classes make fitness fun. Kids will strengthen their minds and bodies, and build skills, coordination, and confidence. Preschool Indoor Playground is held every Tuesday morning. Workshops and events throughout the year offer opportunities for learning and socializing.

Swim lessons are available year-round and will build your child's water safety skills. When your child is ready for a challenge, they can join the Merriam Dolphins Swim and Dive team! Merriam residents may be eligible for a scholarship for lessons or for the Dolphins team.

Enroll your child today!

Classes and Programs

All classes are held at the Merriam Community Center, 6040 Slater St., unless noted otherwise.

Aquatics Programs for Infants and Toddlers

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 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 6-February 27 ▶ Times Vary ▶ Register

Monday - Thursday ▶ March 3-April 24 ▶ 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 to 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 8-February 29 ▶ 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

Aquatic Programs-Youth

KU Sensory Enhanced Aquatics

This class provides swimming and water safety lessons for children who are on the autism spectrum. Traditional learn-to-swim methods are combined with sensory startegies matched to the unique needs of each swimmer. Individual and small-group lessons are available. Instructors: The University of Kansas Medical Center Department of Occupational Therapy Education Staff.

Thursdays ▶ January 24 -April 25 ▶ 6-6:30 p.m. ▶ Registration opens December 13 at 6 p.m.

Thursdays ▶ January 24 -April 25 ▶ 6:35-7:05 p.m. ▶ Registration opens December 13 at 6 p.m.

Thursdays ▶ January 24 -April 25 ▶ 7:10-7:40 p.m. ▶ Registration opens December 13 at 6 p.m.

Merriam Dolphins Spring Clinic

The Merriam Dolphins swim team is offering a spring clinic to help prepare swimmers for the Johnson County Swim and Dive League summer swim season. This program is designed for students who want to join the swim team, were on the precompetitive swim team last season, or are looking for something more challenging after their youth swim lessons.

Friday, March 14 & Saturday, March 15 ▶ 6-7 p.m. / 12-1 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 based on age. Instructor: Mary Jo

Sundays ▶ February 16-April 6 ▶ Register

Sundays ▶ April 13-May 25 ▶ Register

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

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

Monthly ▶ January-April ▶ Register

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

Saturdays are 11 a.m.-11:45 a.m.

Super Kids 3

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

Monthly ▶ January-April ▶ Register

Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays are 6-7 p.m.

Saturdays are 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Fitness and Sports

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 ▶ December ▶ 4:30–6 p.m. ▶ Register

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

Dance Expressions I & II

Come explore the wonderful world of dance where imagination and movement come to life. This is a ballet and tap combo class. Students must have dance leotards, pink ballet shoes, and black tap shoes. Instructor: Wendy, USASF certified

Dance Expression I age 3-6

Wednesdays ▶ Monthly ▶ December ▶ 6-6:45 p.m. ▶ Register

Wednesdays ▶ Monthly ▶ January-April ▶ 6-6:45 p.m. ▶ Register

Dance Expression II age 7-12

Wednesdays ▶ Monthly ▶ December ▶ 6:45-7:30 p.m. ▶ Register

Wednesdays ▶ Monthly ▶ January-April ▶ 6:45-7:30 p.m. ▶ Register

Jump-Start & Intermediate Gymnastics

Gymnastics is a fun and safe way for children to develop confidence and coordination. Lesson plans 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 standing position and return to a standing position independently to participate. Instructor: Wendy, USASF Certified

Jump-Start Gymnastics age 7+

Tuesdays ▶ Monthly ▶ December ▶ 6:15-7 p.m. ▶ Register

Tuesdays ▶ Monthly ▶ January-April ▶ 6:15-7 p.m. ▶ Register

Intermediate Gymnastics

Tuesdays ▶ Monthly ▶ December ▶ 7-7:45 p.m. ▶ Register

Tuesdays ▶ Monthly ▶ January-April ▶ 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)

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

Gymnastics is a fun and safe way for children to begin developing confidence and coordination. Lesson plans are specifically designed to introduce new tumbling skills in each class, focusing on improving balance and flexibility. Recommended for kids age 3 to 6. Instructor: Wendy, USASF certified

Tuesdays ▶ Monthly ▶ December ▶ 5:30-6:15 p.m. ▶ Register

Tuesdays ▶ Monthly ▶ January-April ▶ 5:30-6:15 p.m. ▶ Register

Tumbling for Tots

Tuesdays ▶ Monthly ▶ December ▶ 5:30-6:15 p.m. ▶ Register

Tuesdays ▶ Monthly ▶ January-April ▶ 5:30-6:15 p.m. ▶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. Instructor: Chloe & Ericka

March 17-March 21 ▶ Ages 5-8 ▶ Noon-1:30 p.m. ▶ Register

March 17-March 21 ▶ Ages 9-11 ▶ 1:30-3 p.m. ▶ Register

Youth Lifting Group

This group introduces kids to strength training, focusing on proper form while building confidence through safe, age-appropriate exercises. Perfect for beginners! Instructor: Abby

Thursdays ▶ Monthly ▶ January-April ▶ Ages12-17 ▶ 4:30-5:15 p.m.▶Register

Merriam Dolphins Swim and Dive Team

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 ▶ Monthly ▶ 12-1 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 2024 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 in late spring.

Preschool Indoor Playground

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

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 4-March 1 ▶ Register

Saturdays ▶ March 15-May 10 ▶ Register

Mondays & Wednesdays ▶ March 3-19 ▶ Register

Mondays & Wednesdays ▶ March 31-April16 ▶ Register

Mondays, Tuesdays & Wednesdays ▶ April 28-May 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.

Mondays & Wednesdays ▶ December 2-18 ▶ Register

Saturdays ▶ January 4-March 1 ▶ Register

Saturdays ▶ March 15-May 10 ▶ Register

Mondays & Wednesdays ▶ January 6-22 ▶ Register

Mondays & Wednesdays ▶ February 3-19 ▶ Register

Mondays & Wednesdays ▶ March 3-19 ▶ Register

Mondays & Wednesdays ▶ March 31-April 16 ▶ Register

Mondays, Tuesdays & Wednesdays ▶ April 28-May 7 ▶ 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 2-18 ▶ Register

Saturdays ▶ January 4-March 1 ▶ Register

Saturdays ▶ March 15-May 10 ▶ Register

Mondays & Wednesdays ▶ January 6-22 ▶ Register

Mondays & Wednesdays ▶ February 3-19 ▶ Register

Mondays & Wednesdays ▶ March 3-19 ▶ Register

Mondays & Wednesdays ▶ March 31-April 16 ▶ Register

Mondays, Tuesdays & Wednesdays ▶ April 28-May 7 ▶ 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 2-18 ▶ Register

Mondays & Wednesdays ▶ January 6-22 ▶ Register

Mondays & Wednesdays ▶ February 3-19 ▶ Register

Mondays & Wednesdays ▶ March 3-19 ▶ Register

Merriam Dolphins Swim Clinic

Friday, March 14 & Saturday, March 15 ▶ 6-7 p.m. / 12-1 p.m. ▶ 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

Workshops

Preschool P.R.E.P.

Get your kiddo prepped and ready for kindergarten at Preschool P.R.E.P.! You and your child can play, research, explore and participate in STEAM workshops that will have them thinking outside the box! Members $2; Nonmembers $3 Instructor: Margo

Thursday, January 23 ▶ Ice Ice Baby ▶ Register

Thursday, February 27 ▶ Snowflakes ▶ Register

Thursday, March 27 ▶ Marble Madness ▶ Register

Thursday, April 24 ▶ Little Lady Bug ▶ Register