The Youth Programs of the Berlin-Kensington YMCA are designed to be FUN for all children. Emphasis is placed on instruction and participation. Competition is never our first priority. We want all children to have a positive, healthy experience while they learn new skills. Most of all we want the children to have fun. Our philosophy is that the child comes first and the activity comes second.

Progressive Swim: This program is open to boys and girls in grades K - 5 and allows them to progress at their own rate. Supervision, recreation and transportation from school dismissal until their return to the Child Care Center.

T-Ball: come join us as we focus on basics of a T-Ball games: batting, throwing and catching. Special emphasis is placed on sportsmanship and fun. Teams and games will be formed in a non-competitive manner.

Soccer: Focusing on the basics of soccer, special emphasis is placed on sportsmanship and fun. Teams and games will be formed in a non-competitive manner.

Punt, Pass & Kick: An annual event, held each September, this program is sponsored by the YMCA and the Kiwanis Club. All children are grouped according to age. This event is free and is open to Berlin residents ages 6-15 years old. A special thanks to the Berlin Kiwanis Club for their support of this event.

Start Smart Golf: This is a parent-child participation program for children ages 5-7, who have never played golf. Utilizing the SNAG Coaching System, a unique patented system that moved parent-child groups through four stations during one-hour sessions. This program uses positive reinforcement and fun activities while teaching the participants the skills necessary to play golf.

Skiing/Snowboarding Program: The Branch's Learn-to-Ski Program was founded 25 years ago and has provided more than a thousand Berlin youngsters (grades 3-8) with the opportunity to develop their skills and confidence in both traditional downhill skiing and snowboarding. Registration begins in September. Call the Branch for more information.

Basketball: Come join us as we focus on the basics of basketball. Special emphasis will be placed on sportsmanship and fun in a non-competitive manner. Instruction in this program will be given by YMCA staff with parent volunteers.

Karate: Introduction to Karate (K and older). This beginning class emphasizes when to use the "self-defense" skills taught. Situation awareness and recognition of potential danger is coupled with basic Karate blocking and striking techniques to help students become "street safe." Parents are welcome to view classes any time. This class is taught by certified black belt instructors.

Dance and Movement Education Dance: The YMCA Dance Programs are designed to educate children in the world of dance while providing an enjoyable interactive experience with fellow students. Students will have the opportunity to develop their social skills as well as their motor skills. Dance Combo 2 includes tumbling, tap and ballet for 5 year olds regardless of experience and Jazz for 6-8 year olds.

Theatre Workshop: This 4 week workshop is for all theatre enthusiasts in the 1st -5th grade. Participants will perform skits, learn improvisational skills and with the help of games and activities participants will learn a variety of acting techniques.

Arts & Crafts Club: Elementary Edition (K-5th grade). Join Miss Terri in this 4-week themed arts & crafts program where we will explore the arts with different mediums while having fun.

Vacation Fun Days: Vacation Fun Days for K - 5th graders will be held on scheduled days off from school. Fun Days are held at the Marjorie Moore Child Development Center at the Berlin-Kensington YMCA. A variety of activities as well as swimming and field trips to local hot spots are the highlight of the day.