Join us for a special Mom & Me painting event designed for tweens (ages 8-13) and their moms (or mother figures)! This creative session is all about bonding, artistic expression, and spending quality time together. Whether you’re an experienced artist or a first-timer, this guided painting experience is sure to be fun and relaxing for everyone.  The painting event will be led by our Healthy Minds Program Director, Mel Kistner.

The painting project will be Mother’s Day-themed, and light snacks will be provided.  Registration required for each participant planning to attend.

Unleash your family’s creativity in this hands-on 3D printing workshop! Together, parents and kids will learn the basics of 3D design and digital modeling, explore how 3D printers work, and watch projects come to life layer by layer. Each family will have the opportunity to customize and take home their own 3D-printed project. Each family will use one computer for the workshop to work on their project.

This workshop is designed for families: at least one adult must stay with all children in attendance for the entire workshop. One registration per family; the workshop is priced per family. Perfect for parents, grandparents, or guardians who want to learn, innovate, and have fun together!

Note: This workshop is a prerequisite for independent use of the 3D printer during our Y Makers: 3D Lab Time on Thursdays.

A high-energy workshop for boys! Boost strength and confidence through rock climbing and weight training, then refuel with protein snacks while learning simple strategies for a strong mind and healthy habits. A perfect mix of movement, nutrition, and mental fitness! For middle school boys ages 10-14.

Rooted is a weekly, faith-based after-school program designed specifically for middle school students who are looking for a place to belong, grow, and have fun. Hosted in the Riverside Middle School gym every Wednesday from 2:15–3:15 PM, Rooted creates a safe and welcoming space where students can explore their faith, build meaningful friendships, and enjoy a midweek break filled with food, fun, and fellowship. We want to encourage students to engage in their faith journeys with their classmates and friends, learning what it means to be a Christ-like leader and the importance of community.

Each week includes:
🍕 Food – A light snack to refuel after the school day
🎉 Fun – Games, activities, and team challenges
✝️ Faith – A short, relevant devotion rooted in Scripture. Guest speakers with a passion for Christ.
🤝 Fellowship – Small-group faith-based conversations where students can connect, share, and be encouraged

Rooted is led by caring mentors who are passionate about helping students build confidence, discover their purpose, and grow deeper in their relationship with Christ—all in an environment that is positive, supportive, and student-centered.

**This material and/or activity is not sponsored or endorsed by the School District or its personnel.

All middle schoolers are welcome. Come as you are, come when you can, and come ready to grow.

Our fiber arts class invites kids to discover the art of making with yarn, fabric, and thread in a creative environment. Participants will learn foundational fiber art techniques while designing and completing fun, take-home projects. Perfect for beginners and experienced crafters alike, this class builds confidence, creativity, and fine motor skills. This is a four-week class for boys and girls ages 8–14.

A fun, confidence-boosting workshop just for girls! Start with a beginner-friendly group workout to get moving and energized, then relax with calming self-care activities like journaling and making your own sugar scrub. This workshop is the perfect mix of movement, mindfulness, and connection — a fun way to feel strong, creative, and confident!  For middle school girls ages 10-14.

Great summers start at the Y!  Each week during the summer, we will be offering enrichment mini camps on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1:30pm-3:30pm.  Camps include a wide variety of topics ranging from baking, to photography, to gardening, to science, to Esports, and more!  Registration is based on the week, so you can choose what works best for your children and family.

**Mini camps may involve off-site explorations! For specific camps, we will use the Y van for transportation and return back to the Y at the end time of camp.  Parents will be informed in advance of any off-site explorations planned for the week!

• Art & Innovation: Create, experiment, and invent! Campers explore traditional and modern art techniques while combining creativity with problem-solving to bring their own unique projects to life.
• Stich & Stuff: Design, sew, and create your items. Campers will learn basic sewing and stitching techniques while making fun projects. This camp encourages creativity, hands-on skills, and confidence in designing unique pieces.
• Esports & Coding: Level up your gaming skills and dive into coding! Kids will explore game strategy, teamwork, and the basics of programming in a fun and interactive setting.
• Photography & Drawing: Capture the world through your lens and sketchbook! This camp blends photography & drawing techniques to help young artists express their creativity.
• Baking & Decorating: Whip up fun in the kitchen! Campers will learn the basics of baking—from measuring and mixing to decorating—and create delicious treats to enjoy. Whether it’s sweet or savory, this camp encourages creativity, confidence, and a love for cooking.
  
• Magic & Illusion: Discover the tricks behind the wonder! Campers will explore how science makes magic possible, from optical illusions and physics-based tricks to chemistry experiments that seem like real magic. Kids will perform their own “magical” experiments while learning the science behind every illusion.
• Gardening & Cooking: From garden to table! Kids will harvest fresh ingredients from the YMCA community garden and turn them into delicious, healthy meals while learning about gardening and nutrition.
• STEM & Chemistry: Mix, fizz, and experiment! Young scientists will safely explore chemical reactions, colorful experiments, and hands-on labs that make chemistry come alive.
• Fishing & Outdoor Adventure: Cast a line and explore the great outdoors! Campers will learn basic fishing skills, safety, and environmental stewardship while enjoying hands-on outdoor activities. This camp combines adventure, teamwork, and appreciation for nature in a fun, active setting.
• Gems & Geology: Explore the science of rocks, minerals, and gems! Campers will identify and sort stones, learn about the rock cycle, and discover how natural gems are formed. Kids will also create gemstone-inspired jewelry to take home, blending science, creativity, and hands-on fun.

Learn something new, make new friends, and have fun at the Y this summer!

Looking for something to do after school? Learn something new during our Try It Workshops!  Enjoy creating projects, trying a new activity, or learning a new skill!

Winter & Spring Workshops 

• February 11th- Intro to 3D Printing: Dive into the world of 3D printing in this engaging, hands-on workshop!  Young creators will unleash their imagination as they learn the fundamentals of 3D design.  Participants will explore how 3D printers work, experiment with digital modeling, and watch the designs take shape!  Get ready to create, innovate, and take home a 3D printed project!
• March 25th- Watercolor Wonders: Discover the magic of watercolor painting! Learn fun techniques, play with color, and create your own vibrant masterpiece to take home.
• April 15th- Intro to 3D Printing: Dive into the world of 3D printing in this engaging, hands-on workshop!  Young creators will unleash their imagination as they learn the fundamentals of 3D design.  Participants will explore how 3D printers work, experiment with digital modeling, and watch the designs take shape!  Get ready to create, innovate, and take home a 3D printed project!
• May 4th- Edible Art: Too fun to eat… almost! Design and build edible art using snacks, sweets, and a little imagination. You’ll experiment with colors and shapes, create your own food masterpieces, and then snack on your creations.
• June 3rd- Intro to 3D Printing: Dive into the world of 3D printing in this engaging, hands-on workshop!  Young creators will unleash their imagination as they learn the fundamentals of 3D design.  Participants will explore how 3D printers work, experiment with digital modeling, and watch the designs take shape!  Get ready to create, innovate, and take home a 3D printed project!

For ages 6-12.  For non-members and participants under the age of 8, parents must pick up from the workshop at the conclusion of class. Member participants over the age of 8 are allowed to be in the YMCA without a parent/guardian present.

Get ready to bring your ideas to life! In this hands-on club, participants will explore the exciting world of 3D printing and design. Using beginner-friendly software, kids will learn how to create their own digital models and watch them transform into real-life objects using a 3D printer. Along the way, they’ll build skills in creativity, problem-solving, and basic engineering—all while having fun and making something totally unique! No prior experience needed—just imagination and a curiosity to create.  This is a four-week class for boys and girls ages 8-14.

Get ready to bring your ideas to life! In this hands-on club, participants will explore the exciting world of 3D printing and design. Using beginner-friendly software, kids will learn how to create their own digital models and watch them transform into real-life objects using a 3D printer. Along the way, they’ll build skills in creativity, problem-solving, and basic engineering—all while having fun and making something totally unique! No prior experience needed—just imagination and a curiosity to create.  This is a four-week class for boys and girls ages 8-14.

Dive into the world of 3D printing in this engaging, hands-on workshop! Young creators will unleash their imagination as they learn the fundamentals of 3D design. Participants will explore how 3D printers work, experiment with digital modeling, and watch the designs take shape! Get ready to create, innovate, and take home a 3D printed project!

NOTE: In order to use our 3D printer, this class is required first!

Our kids baking class is designed to be a delightful and educational experience where young chefs can learn about the fundamentals of baking and create delicious treats!  Whether your child is a budding baker or simply loves to get creative in the kitchen, our program promises to inspire and educate while fostering a love for baking. This is a four-week class for boys and girls ages 8-14.

Youth – Speed. Agility. Strength Y-S.A.S. is designed for 5th through 8th grade students as a way to boost their overall athletic abilities while building self-confidence. Middle school can be a challenging time of growth and change. As kids begin to explore sports and physical activity, they’re also learning how their bodies move and what they’re capable of. Y-S.A.S. helps bridge that gap—nurturing their skills, encouraging exploration, and supporting their development every step of the way.

Strength – The program introduces students to strength training and functional movements through bodyweight exercises, safe and proper use of strength training machines, and safe techniques for beginning with free weights.

Agility and Speed – Nearly every sport demands speed, explosiveness, and agility. By incorporating fundamental footwork drills, cone exercises, ladder work, and plyometrics, athletes can build and improve all of these essential skills.

Coach David Wolter – Experienced Strength & Conditioning Coach, Powerlifting Specialist, and Certified Personal Trainer with over 22 years of hands-on coaching expertise. Skilled in leading one-on-one training, small group sessions, and athletic performance programs, with a deep passion for helping individuals build strength, improve movement, and reach their fitness goals at every level.

**Upon completion of YSAS, the need to sign up and complete a youth/teen wellness orientation will be waived

Youth – Speed. Agility. Strength Y-S.A.S. is designed for 5th through 8th grade students as a way to boost their overall athletic abilities while building self-confidence. Middle school can be a challenging time of growth and change. As kids begin to explore sports and physical activity, they’re also learning how their bodies move and what they’re capable of. Y-S.A.S. helps bridge that gap—nurturing their skills, encouraging exploration, and supporting their development every step of the way.

Strength – The program introduces students to strength training and functional movements through bodyweight exercises, safe and proper use of strength training machines, and safe techniques for beginning with free weights.

Agility and Speed – Nearly every sport demands speed, explosiveness, and agility. By incorporating fundamental footwork drills, cone exercises, ladder work, and plyometrics, athletes can build and improve all of these essential skills.

Coach David Wolter – Experienced Strength & Conditioning Coach, Powerlifting Specialist, and Certified Personal Trainer with over 22 years of hands-on coaching expertise. Skilled in leading one-on-one training, small group sessions, and athletic performance programs, with a deep passion for helping individuals build strength, improve movement, and reach their fitness goals at every level.

**Upon completion of YSAS, the need to sign up and complete a youth/teen wellness orientation will be waived

Join us for a one-day adventure trip to enjoy fun, friends, and different activities!  On various school’s out days throughout the school year and during summer break, we will be offering trips to various destinations!  From waterparks to nature centers, we look forward to adventuring with you! Ages. 8-13.

Participants must bring their own lunch, snacks, and beverages for the trip. 

• February 16th:  MSOE STEM Center & Pottery Painting (Milwaukee & Sussex) Get ready for a day of creativity and discovery! Explore hands-on experiments at the MSOE STEM Center, then let your imagination shine as you design your own pottery masterpiece to take home.
• April 1st: Discovery World & Milwaukee Pretzel Company (Milwaukee): A perfect mix of science and snacks! Enjoy a day of exploration at Discovery World and top it off with a behind-the-scenes look (and taste!) at the Milwaukee Pretzel Company.

Summer Adventure Trips

• June 16th: Action Territory (Kenosha) Join us for an exciting trip to Action Territory, where you can race go-karts, battle in laser tag, conquer mini-golf, and enjoy arcade games, bumper cars, and more! With a variety of thrilling attractions, this adventure is packed with fun, competition, and nonstop excitement!
• June 26th: Circus World & Devil’s Lake (Baraboo) Discover the beauty of Devil’s Lake State Park with hiking, swimming, and stunning views, then enjoy exciting shows and circus fun at Circus World. A day packed with nature and entertainment!
• June 29th: Noah’s Ark (Wisconsin Dells) Get ready for a splashing good time at Noah’s Ark Waterpark in Wisconsin Dells! Enjoy thrilling water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers, along with plenty of attractions for all ages. It’s the perfect day of water fun and adventure, making unforgettable memories with friends!
• July 10th: Henry Villas Zoo & Little Amerricka Amusement Park (Madison & Marshall) Enjoy a fun-filled day at Henry Vilas Zoo and Little Amerricka Adventure Park! Explore amazing animals at the zoo, then ride classic attractions and enjoy adventure rides at the park. A perfect day of adventure and memories!
• July 14th: Dinosaur Discovery Museum & Siege Gellyball (Kenosha & Big Bend) Get ready for an action-packed day at Siege Gellyball & the Dinosaur Discovery Museum! Participants will test their strategy and teamwork in thrilling gellyball battles, then explore fascinating dinosaur fossils and exhibits. A great day of adrenaline & exploring!
• July 24th: Prairie Lanes & Skate Express (Sun Prairie & Watertown) Get ready for an action-packed day at Prairie Lanes and Skate Express! Bowl your way to strikes, challenge friends in laser tag, and enjoy endless fun in the arcade, then glide into excitement with roller skating. It’s the perfect mix of games, thrills, and nonstop fun!
• July 28th: Cave of the Mounds & Blue Mound State Park (Blue Mounds) Step into a whole new world at Cave of the Mounds and Blue Mound State Park! Wander through the stunning underground formations of Cave of the Mounds, then explore scenic trails and enjoy breathtaking views at Blue Mound State Park. A day of natural wonder and adventure awaits!
• August 4th: Milwaukee County Zoo & Urban Ecology Center (Milwaukee) Explore the wild side of Milwaukee with a visit to the Milwaukee Zoo and the Urban Ecology Center! Discover fascinating animals at the zoo, then connect with nature through hands-on activities and wildlife spotting at the Urban Ecology Center’s city parks. It’s a day of animal adventures and outdoor exploration!
• August 14th: Mount Olympus (Wisconsin Dells) Join us for an exciting adventure to Mount Olympus Water & Theme Park, where thrill-seekers can enjoy epic roller coasters, water slides, and wave pools! Get ready for a day filled with non-stop fun, adventure, and unforgettable memories!
• August 18th: Discovery World (Milwaukee) Dive into a world of science and exploration at Discovery World in Milwaukee! Experience hands-on exhibits, interactive experiments, and fascinating displays that spark curiosity for all ages. It’s a day where learning meets adventure and discovery comes alive!

Please call Member Services (262-567-7251 ext. 0) if registration is closed but spots remain available.