Youth Programs

Click here for printable version of the program policies.​

• Scan in at the front desk upon arrival.
• Participants are to dress in appropriate attire for the program (shorts, closed toed shoes, comfortable shirt, etc)
• For youth under 12 years of age, parents/guardians are required to be on site up to the program time starting with instructor presence, and at the ending time of the scheduled program.  Parents/guardians are not required to be on site for the duration of the program.  Instructors are not responsible for supervision before and after scheduled program time.
• If your child is struggling with participation, parents are welcome to join the lesson to help them refocus.
• Only water is permitted inside the gym. There are water fountains located in various areas of the facility that participants may use to refill their water bottles or use in place of a water bottle.
• Only those participants registered for the program will be able to participate in the activities.
• All equipment needed for the class will be provided by the YMCA.
• Make-Up Policy:  If you are going to miss a day of the program, please inform your instructor and they will try to find a make-up day for you to participate in. Availability for make-ups will vary.
• Refund Policy: YMCA program refund policy: Program refunds are not guaranteed.  Cancellations due to medical reasons with a doctor's note may result in a refund of the unused portion of the remainder of the session.  Cancellation prior to the start of the first program day may result in a full refund.  Cancellation after the first program day may result in a 50% refund. Cancellations after the second program day will not be eligible for a refund.

Level 1

This class is designed to teach players the fundamentals of dribbling, shooting, passing, and teamwork. This introductory class is to get players ready for Level II class. This class is for players who have not participated in a basketball class before, or who are very limited in their basketball experience. Class will participate on a shortened rim.

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Level 2

This class is designed for players to work on dribbling with each hand while moving throughout the court. Participants will focus on fundamentals of layups, shooting, passing, and defensive footwork. Class will participate on a slightly shortened rim.

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Level 3

This is an advanced basketball class. Players will be able to dribble with both hands at different speeds up and down the court. Players will be able to create their own shot, be consistent within 15 feet of the basket, as well as rebounding and defensive positioning. Class will participate on a 10-foot rim.

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Ballet 

This ballet program is perfect for the ballet beginner. Basic ballet skills, balance, jumps, and turns will be achieved by the end of the session. Ballet slippers or socks are required.

Jazz/Hip Hop Dance

This program will teach the basics of jazz and hip hop as well as some contemporary dance movement.  Great for dancers with no experience, and for others looking to improve their skills.  Jumps, turns and combinations will be explored every week.

Creative Movement 

We will have a similar program structure for each level, but the activities and content will change depending on age. Our goal is to introduce acting, voice and movement techniques for the stage. We will explore movement with a focus on strength, balance and coordination. We will learn vocal techniques to enhance pronunciation and projection, and we will explore theater games and activities to improve acting skills. Together we will create, write and perform original theatrical pieces to perform in a student showcase on the last day of program.

Dance Exploration Level I and Level II

Our goal is to explore creative movement activities, musical genres and dance techniques (including ballet, tap, jazz and hip-hop). We will build skills in rhythm and pattern recognition in both music and dance. We will choreograph and perform a variety of dances in multiple styles based on student interest. We will culminate in a student showcase on the last day of the program.

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Ages 10+

This program teaches participants about the sport of fencing, from skilled instructors with Triblade Academy. Equipment is provided; please wear comfortable gym attire. Available only during the school year, Fall, Winter, Spring I, and Spring II sessions.

Portage - Days, Times, Register

Juniors Golf Lessons

Participants will learn to drive (irons and woods), short game (chipping, putting, sand, and pitching), play on a short course. and receive a video analysis.  Clubs and balls will be provided. Golf program is taught by golf pro Sharon King at The Dome in Schoolcraft on US-131.

This program is available for new or experienced players.

Portage - Days, Times, Register

Family Golf Outing (Ages 4- Adult)

The YMCA Annual Family Golf outing takes place in August at the States Golf Course in Vicksburg.  More information for the 2026 outing to come.

Ages 2-3 yrs

The program incorporates some gymnastics and movement. Each week will have a theme for the equipment and type of movement for the participants. The instructor will set up equipment to encourage large muscle development. Participants will have the opportunity to climb, jump, swing, roll, flip, balance and build confidence.

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Ages 10+

This program is intended to develop the whole person in mind, body and spirit while teaching effective self-defense skills for the practitioner. The practice of this art develops strong character through its five primary tenets: Courtesy, Integrity, Perseverance, Self-Control, and Indomitable Spirit. Available only during the school year, Fall, Winter, Spring I, and Spring II sessions.

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Mini Sports Camp - Ages 5-10

The YMCA of Greater Kalamazoo's youth sports camps are designed to develop specific sports-related skills for school-age youth. Both the Maple and Portage sites offer half-day sports camps during summer, winter, and spring breaks. Participants will learn new skills, meet friends, and have fun.  Be sure to bring a water bottle and snack every day to camp.  

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For questions regarding our Maple Mini Sports Camp, contact Grant Hazen at 269.345.9622 ext. 178

For questions regarding our Portage Mini Sports Camp, contact Josh Ryan at 269.324.9622 ext. 408

Ages 18-36 Months

This program includes free play, games, music, and parachute time that stimulates cognitive development and physical and social skills. Parent and child interaction throughout the session.

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The YMCA has several active programs for homeschoolers. To learn more, call Don at Portage (269) 324-9622 x423. Available during the school year, Fall I, Fall II, Winter, Spring I, and Spring II sessions.

Homeschool Gym Program

Portage - Days, Times, Register

HomeSchool Pre-Ballet

Children are introduced to the joy of dancing by developing their gross motor skills, learning musicality and body awareness, while integrating the fundamentals of classical ballet.  Dance attire includes a solid colored leotard, pink tights, and pink ballet slippers. (ballet skirts are optional)

Portage - Days, Times, Register

Homeschool Beginning Ballet

A foundation in classical ballet will be established, focusing on proper body alignment and introducing French terminology.  This class is open to students who have no previous dance experience, as well as those who are looking to refine their ballet technique.  Dance attire required includes a solid black leotard, pink tights, and pink ballet slippers. (ballet skirts are optional)

Portage - Days, Times, Register

Homeschool Fitness

Small group training for children ages 10 -17 interested in physical fitness.  Class participants will set fitness goals for aerobic work or strength.  During the program kids will learn how to achieve fitness via cardio machines, weight machines, free weights, bands, and body weight.  Education is given regarding benefits of physical activity, injury prevention, and nutrition. This class is designed for kids wanting to start or maintain fitness outside of sports.  Class is facilitated by YMCA Personal Trainers.

Portage - Days, Times, Register

Level 1 Soccer

This class is designed to teach players the fundamentals of dribbling, shooting, passing, and teamwork. This introductory class is to get players ready for Level II class. This class is for players who have not participated in a soccer class before, or who are very limited in their soccer experience.

Level 2 Soccer

This class is designed for players to work on dribbling with each foot while moving throughout the court. Participants will focus on fundamentals of shooting, passing, and defensive footwork.

Maple - Days, Times, Register

Ages 3-6

This program develops skills like throwing, catching, kicking, and more. This is a great introduction to football, soccer, gymnastics, baseball, volleyball, floor hockey, and lacrosse.

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Sports Clinics

There will also be an assortment of clinics and programs for participants to learn and develop an understanding of specific sports and activites.

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Taekwondo offers a great way for children & adults to build confidence, self-esteem, respect, discipline, strength, flexibility, and patience in a teamwork setting. Our instructor will teach you to channel energy into a positive attitude in a fun and active atmosphere.

Programs Available: 

• Ages 4-5
• Ages 6-8
• Ages 9-15

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