Ozarks Regional YMCA : Teens Page

Aquatics
Learning to swim will give your teen a tremendous sense of accomplishment, build confidence and empower them to enjoy water activities safely. And, nobody does swim lessons like the Ozarks Regional YMCA: 2006 marks the 100 year annivarsary of YMCA group swim lessons! Aquatics programs run all year long at our branches with indoor pools, and are seasonal at some branches. From lessons to lifeguard training to water fitness classes, we've got something to "suit" your fancy.

Swim lessons with parent—Parent participation is required for the following classes:
Aquababes (ages 6 mos–3 yrs)
Baby and parent learn water enrichment and safety while sharing quality time.
Perch (age 2-3)
Helping children shift smoothly from parent to instructor. During the first class the parent is in water with the child. By the second and third classes, parent stays on the side of the pool and deck respectively.

Swim lessons without parent (ages 3–5)
Pike—Beginner level.
Eel—Children who can swim 5 feet with face in water.
Rays—Children who can perform overarm stroke on front and back for 10–15 feet.
Starfish—Children who can swim 20 feet.

Youth swim lessons (ages 6–14)
Polliwog—Beginner level.
Guppy—Children who can free float and swim 15–20 feet on their own.
Minnow—Children who can perform front and back crawl for 25 feet.
Fish—Children who can swim 25 yards and perform front and back crawl.
Flying fish—Children who can swim 50 yards, perform front and back crawl, rotary breathing, sidestroke and breaststroke.
Shark—Children who can swim endurance (150 yards), know basic safety skills and can perform a rescue.

Swim Club (ages 7–17)
Join the downtown YMCA Swim Club! For swimmers looking for competitive practice and local competition. For more info contact Kyla Bentley at 417.862.8962 X 149.

Learn to swim—adult swim instruction (ages 16+)
Learn to swim, overcome your fear of the water or improve your water safety skills. Work on all strokes and endurance.
All levels taught.

Adult stroke clinic (ages 16+)
Work on stroke technique and endurance.

Private swim lessons (ages 6 mos+)
These 30–minute classes are available for children and adults. Class times are arranged. Please call the Aquatics Director to schedule your lesson.

Guard start/jr guard

Lifeguard classes

Water Wellness Classes
All ages welcome. Water wellness classes are ongoing and FREE. Classes run 30–45 minutes.
Aquacise
Aquajog
Arthritis Foundation
Deep End only
Learn to lap
Shallow water walking
T-shirt class
Water Aerobics
Wet & Wwild

Aquatics classes are small and instructors are trained in the YMCA of the USA Swim Program. Children under age 5 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian in water. Children under age 8 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian in the pool area.

Need to know info.
Aquatics classes are small and instructors are trained in the YMCA of the USA Swim Program. Children under age 5 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian in water. Children under age 8 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian in the pool area.
Refunds—We cannot give refunds on aquatics programs. Once a session begins, only a credit voucher may be issued.
class cancellations—Please note that classes may be combined or cancelled due to low enrollment.

Arts and Humanities
Arts & Humanities programs are growing fast at the Ozarks Regional YMCA! Our Arts & Humanities programming has grown from ballet, jazz and tap in 2004 to numerous dance, art, theatre and writing classes at three of our YMCAs this year. From scrapbooking to watercolor, tango dancing to youth drama, the Ozarks Regional YMCA will help you express yourself through dance, writing, drawing, painting and more.

Camp
Do you remember those lazy summers when you were a kid at camp? Remember the memories you made and the friends you gained? YMCA's Camp Wakonda is one of the oldest camps in Southwest Missouri, nestled in the Ash Grove countryside.

Camp Wakonda gives kids grades 3 through 12 a chance to get outdoors for a summer, gain self-confidence, challenge themselves and find the leader that is hiding in each one of them.

Child Care
YMCA Child Care provides a secure and loving environment for your child; an environment where they are exposed to staff who realize that consistency builds security, friendships are important, and learning is key.

Gymnastics
Ozarks Regional YMCA offers a Progressive Gymnastics Program at Cassville YMCA, Pat Jones YMCA and Ozark Mountain YMCA. Registration is year-round. Classes vary by location. For a complete list of classes available at your location, please visit your location's Welcome Center.

Mommy and Me (age 18 mos–3 years)
This is a chance for parents and children to bond. Parents and infants can get on the gym floor stretch, play in the foam pit, jump on the trampoline and have a good time together.

Kiddie Gym (ages 2 | 3)—Parent required. Introduction to equipment, gross motor skills, balls, and coordinating activities.

Pepsqueaks (ages 3 | 4)—Includes floor, beam, bars, mini-tramp and activities with ladders and obstacle courses.

TumblingTots (ages 4 | 5)—Includes work on floor, beam, bars, mini-tramp and vault. Will begin working on basic skills and other activities for added fun.

Rollers i—Includes work on all 4 events plus mini-tramp and some dance movement. It’s for beginners.
Rollers ii—This class involves more advanced tumbling and apparatus work.
Rollers iii—This is a beginning class for basic skills on all 4 events for older beginners. Same skills as Rollers I.

Tumble/Trampoline (ages 6+)—This class focuses on tumbling and trampoline skills only.

Hot Shots (director’s permission only)—Class includes work on all 4 events plus trampoline and mini-tramp.

Swingers—This class is one step up from Rollers. Students will continue with basics and add more difficult skills.

Kippers—This class is one step up from Swingers.

Flyers and Flippers—This class is for students with previous gymnastics experience [former team memebers] who want to keep their skills up.

Roller Boys—This class is for beginner boys and it focuses on men’s apparatus.

Beginning Tumbling (ages 8+)—This is a class is tumbling only—no apparatus—and is for those without previous gymnastics experience.

Intermediate Tumbling (ages 8+)—Participants must be able to do cartwheels, round-offs, and are working on back handsprings.

Advanced Tumbling (ages 8+)—This class is for gymnasts and cheerleaders that are able to do back handsprings, and possibly back tucks.

Beginning Cheer—In this class the main focus is to build basic cheerleading skills. Working on cheers, tumbling, and stunting.

Advanced Cheerleading—If you’re interested in high school cheer, this class is for you. Will be working on advanced tumbling skills and difficult stunting.

Schedules

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Health and Wellness
Your teenage years are some of the toughest life throws you. It's also the time to build good exercise habits that will stay with you for a lifetime. So, get fit in one of the YMCA's fitness programs! Learn the importance of exercise, a balanced diet and time away from all the pressures of being a teenager. Getting fit is something you can do just for yourself! Check out our teen fitness programs below.

Fitness express (ages 13+)—New to working out or have past exercise routines been unsuccessful for you? This 30-minute program utilizes weights and cardiovascular equipment, taking place in the new Jones private weight area. Instructed by a YMCA Certified Healthy Lifestyles Coach. Class size limited, sign up at the Welcome Center.

Healthy Lifestyles visit (ages 13+)—Healthy lifestyle Visits are geared to help you explore all of your healthy lifestyle options and to help you figure out your next step in achieving a healthier you! Whether you need help setting acheivable goals, connecting with a program or class, or learning the basics in the wieght room or cardio area—we are committed to making the process simple. Please stop by your location's Welcome Center fo schedule a visit.

Personal Training (ages 13+)—YMCA personal trainers offer members the highest possible service. YMCA personal trainers will design and apply an extensive plan to put you on the path to reach your fitness goal. If you are looking to increase your performance in a sport or get ready for a special event, YMCA personal trainers can put you on the path to success. Personal training is not a free service and it is designed for a commitment. Always research your options, but feel confident that YMCA personal trainers can help you achieve results.
Fees—10 sessions for $300
Individual sessions are $35/hour and $17.50 for a half-hour.

Group Exercise Classes (ages 13+)—We offer a variety of classes for all levels of fitness.Classes are continuous drop-in classes and are FREE TO MEMBERS. Each class can be adjusted for your own ability. Contact your YMCA Welcome Center for current class schedules or click the schedules link below. Participants under age 16 must have a parent present. Participants under age 13 must have instructor permission.

Rock Climbing
Hey Teens, challenge yourself on our three-story rock climbing wall, located at the Downtown YMCA. From beginners to pros, the YMCA's rock climbing wall is a perfect place to learn the ropes or stay in practice. We offer climbing programs for ages 4+, or workshops for those who want to hone their climbing skills. And, once you get to the top, honk the horn to let everyone know you made it before you are lowered all the way back down!

Climbing classes (ages 4–13+)
Offer your child a chance to pursue their natural climbing ability. The YMCA core values are utilized to develop self-confidence, safety awareness and motor skills. Children develop balance and strength while learning proper harness use, commands and safety procedures. d
Koalas—ages 4–12
Spider monkeys—ages 13+
Each of the classes above will be built upon skills and terms of basic climbing. Each class has two levels. Because children learn at varying rates, each student will have a skill card that is specific to his/her needs. Some students will advance quickly, while others may take several sessions to complete the same skill level.

Climb On !—age 4+
An independent study class that is geared towards advanced climbers. It is less-structured, though staff instructors will be on-hand to help students work on reaching their personal goals. This class is available to those that have completed all of the skills on class skill sheets.

Free theme climbs (ages 4+)
Theme climbs are ongoing with no session dates. Schedules available at your Downtown YMCA Welcome Center or at orymca.org.

Y-factor climb—YMCA provides belayers to assist climbers.

Open Climb—Climbers must utilize co-members that are YMCA belay certified or use the auto belay. Belayer must be age 13+ and YMCA certified. YMCA provides 1 staff member to assist climbers with equipment.

Family Climb Class—A great time for families to play together. This instructor-led class will help families learn to set goals while they connect with each other, and bond with other families. Please register in advance.

Family Climb Night—This time is reserved for families to climb the rock wall together. A minimum of 1 parent or guardian must participate with their child(ren). Parents/guardians are encouraged to become YMCA belay certified. Staff on duty to assist.

Workshops & Certifications
Workshop schedules are available at the your Downtown Welcome Center or at orymca.org. Registration is required for workshops.

Belay workshop (ages 13+)
Learn proper safety and belay skills in this workshop.

Boot Camp (ages 16+)—Stuck in a workout rut? This 12-week session includes everything—running outside, sprints, plyometrics, strength, agility—but the kitchen sink. First and last class include a basic fitness test to evaluate your fitness level. Your instructor will use the results to help you to achieve your goals.

500 club (all ages)—Run, walk or jog 500 miles and become an exclusive member of the Downtown 500 Club by earning a one-of-a-kind t-shirt. Fees are $5/person. Members only. No minimum or maximum mileage per day. Please register at the Downtown Welcome Center prior to beginning. Mileage log sheets will be on the first floor landing. T-shirts will be available once your reach 500 miles.

Group Cycling (ages 13+)—LeMond RevMaster Group Cycling is conducted by trained instructors, classes are FREE to YMCA members and not available for participants.Reservations can be made one day in advance after 9am Mon–Sat. Monday reservations may be made on Sunday after 12pm. Please arrive 5 minutes prior to the start of class.Schedules are available at either Springfield location Welcome Center or online.

Youth Martial Arts—self-defense and karate for beginners ( ages 5–13)—Develop self-confidence by learning martial art exercises, techniques and practical self-defense. Mental and physical development is emphasized through the discipline of form and stance.

Pilates (13+)
Pilates 101—This FREE entry-level class focuses on developing core strength from basic pilates movements.
Group mat class—Classes run on eight-week sessions. Please register in advance [as this class is progressive] at the Jones or Ward Welcome Centers. Pick up a schedule at the Welcome Center or at orymca.org.

Tai Chi—Learn how to strengthen and relax your body, relieve mental stress and physical tension and greatly increase body awareness and balance. All levels welcome. Advanced registration required [as this class is progressive]. Register at the Downtown Welcome Center.

Yoga (ages 13+)—Yoga schedules available at each branch’s Welcome Center or orymca.org. Classes are FREE and available to members only. Schedules run continuously and are on a drop-in basis.

Teens
The Ozarks Regional YMCA offers teen tons of cool programs, from afterschool activities to trips all over the country, your teen will learn to have responsibility, be a leader and have a positive attitude or give back to their community.

Counselors-In-Training (grades 9–10)
The Counselors-In-Training (C.I.T.) program is designed for teens entering grades 9 and 10. It integrates challenging job training skills, leadership opportunities, and positive peer interaction into the teen’s daily lives. Teens participate in job training, first aid and CPR certification, and volunteer work with our Summer Odyssey program.

Holiday Teen Escape (grades 6–8)
When Springfield Public Schools close, Holiday Teen Escape opens! Students grades 6–8 are invited to spend a fun-filled day doing activities the Y way.
Dates are Jan 11, 21; Feb 18; Mar 17–21.
FMF $16 PF $18

Leaders Club (grades 6–12)
Leaders club is a nationally recognized volunteer-based youth club for teens in grades 6–12. The club’s main objective is to allow teens to build leadership training, recreational activities, and socialization. Leaders Club allows teens to enrich their own life by enriching the lives of others and lending a helping hand. If you are looking to make life long friends, help others, and have fun, then this is the club for you.
meeting times—Mondays, at 5:30pm
rallies— three weekend trips to YMCAs around the Midwest
leaders school— one-week rally in Jacksonville, IL July 12–18, 2008
fees—$10/semester. Fundraising is available for all trips.

Teen Fitness (grades 6–8)
Teen Fitness is an introductory course that promotes a lifetime of physical activity by covering basic fitness principles, healthy eating habits, exercise equipment instruction, and gym etiquette. This course will also certify teens to use the machines at the YMCA.
Tues/Thurs 4–5:15pm

Teen Summer Escape (grades 6–8)
Teen Summer Escape provides youth grades 6–8 with a variety of activities to meet their physical needs in a caring atmosphere of social, emotional and intellectual development.
Our goal in Teen Summer Escape is to better equip youth for taking on new challenges they may encounter in the upcoming school year. Above all, youth will have fun, cultivate new friendships and have new experiences in a safe, supervised and positive environment. Activities include swimming, arts & crafts, sports, movies, roller skating, mini golf, guest speakers and more! Family Membership Registration will be held Feb 26, 2008 from 4:30–7pm at the Downtown YMCA.
Early Registration Feb 28
Open Registration Mar 1

Y Teens Afterhours (grades 6–12)
Rock-out on Guitar Hero; challenge yourself on the rockwall; play a friendly game of foosball, dodgeball or air hockey or just hang out in our Teen Zone. And when your not busy making new friends or mastering the Nintendo Wii, we’ll even help you with your homework. We’ve many activities to keep you entertained. We will pick up at the following schools and ensure you arrive safely at the Downtown YMCA: Jarrett, Pipkin, Parkview, Central, St. Agnes, St. Joseph and Study. On-site locations include Hickory Hills and Carver. Early Registration for YMCA Family Members will be Feb 25, 2008.
Open Registration begins March 31, 2008.

Youth in Government (grade 8–12)
Missouri YMCA Youth In Government is a statewide educational program that prepares young people for responsible leadership in the American democratic process by providing guidance, training, and experience in the theory and practice of determining public policy.

Students will have a chance to participate in the Executive Branch Leadership Institute or EBLI held March 5–7, 2008. EBLI provides an in-depth look at the executive branch of the Missouri state government. Students are grouped into small teams and placed in state agencies to research a public policy issue and develop a proposal for the issue. A panel of judges reviews their presentations and awards are given t the top teams and individaul presenters. There is a $20 registration fee. Fundraising is a available for all remaining expenses.

Teen Centers
Each of the Ozarks Regional YMCAs five branches feature Teen Centers equipped with cool games.

jones teen center (grade pre-K–age 15)—We’ve got a pool table, fooseball, air hockey, ping-pong, comfy furniture and computer learning/software games. Our computer lab, Playstation 2 and board games are also available during supervised times only.

downtown teen zone (grade pre-K–age 15)—Come and go whenever you like! We have an air hockey table, foosball, Dance-Dance Revolution, Ping-Pong, comfy furniture, a Nintendo Game Cube and a Playstation 2! Open during regular Downtown Y hours.

Sports
YMCA youth sports programs focus on fundamentals like caring, honesty, respect and responsibility. Every ball your child hits, every basket they make or goal they score, and every friend they make on the court or field is a lesson in how to be a "good sport" in the game of life. With so many youth sports to offer [baseball, basketball, dodgeball, flag football, jr. golf, softball, tee-ball, volleyball and soccer] we're sure to make your child a winner in every sense of the word.

Volunteer
Volunteers are the lifeblood of the YMCA. The YMCA uses programming volunteers, event volunteers and policy volunteers that serve on YMCA boards. Which will you be? Contact us and let us know what you are interested in volunteering for.