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The Y’s many different programs let you try new things, develop skills, meet new people, and show what you are capable of!  All of our programs will help you achieve and maintain health in spirit, mind, and body.

• Click here for 2013 Day Camp Brochure
• Click here for 2013 Summer Camp Parent Handbook
• Click here for May - August 2013 program times and offerings

FAMILY PROGRAMS

Family Fitness
Our Family Fitness room (in the Ferris building) offers strength-training equipment appropriate for both children and adults.

Family Fitness is a time for families to enjoy working out together. Our Main Fitness Center is available:  Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 6 - 9 p.m.; Saturday: Noon - 7 p.m.;  Sunday: 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Children ages 9-12 can use cardio equipment in the Wellness Center when accompanied by a parent.  Schedule a family appointment with our wellness staff to learn about our cardio equipment.

Prayer Breakfast
Join a great group for fellowship, devotion, community, yummy breakfast and a special time of prayer at the Blue Ash YMCA. Come for fellowship and fun! Check with the Service Center for details.

Open Gym
For individuals and families wanting to shoot hoops, play kickball or volleyball and have fun together.

Recreational Swim
Open pool time for individuals and families to exercise, swim laps and have fun in the water.

Martial Arts - Tae Kwon Do
Ages 6 and up
Learn the ancient art of Korean Karate at your own pace. An excellent program to enhance your level of physical fitness, gain self-confidence, and improve self-discipline while learning this traditional art of self-defense. Contact Wellness Center for more information.
 

LICENSED CHILD CARE
 

Before and Afterschool Programs 
The YMCA provides children with a safe place to learn, play and grow before and afterschool.  All of our programs are licensed by the state of Ohio and meet high quality standards.  Children will learn new skills and make friends through our curriculum which includes arts and humanities, character development, health, wellness and fitness, homework support, literacy, science, and service learning.

Schools Served: 

Reading Schools: Reading Hilltop, Reading Central (at Reading Hilltop), St. Nicholas Academy (at Reading Hilltop)

Princeton Schools: Evendale Elementary, Glendale Elementary (at Woodlawn), Heritage Hill Elementary (at Springdale), Lincoln Heights Elementary (at Woodlawn), Sharonville Elementary, Springdale Elementary, Stewart Elementary, Woodlawn Elementary

Schools served at the Blue Ash YMCA: Amity Elementary, Blue Ash Elementary, Holmes Elementary, E.H. Greene Intermediate, Indian Hill Primary, Indian Hill Elementary, Linden Grove, Maple Dale Elementary, Montgomery Elementary, Silverton Padeia 
 

*Other students accepted, transportation not provided. Completed child care enrollment packet due at the time of registration with an annual $25 registration fee. Hamilton County vouchers accepted, financial assistance available.

Blue Ash and Reading Registration Packet

Princeton Registration Packet

Enrollment and Health Information

2012-2013 School Age Child Care - Parent Handbook

Preschool
The YMCA provides children with a safe place to learn, play, and grow while developing socially, emotionally, and physically.  Children will learn new skills and make friends through our curriculum which includes literacy, mathematics, science, social studies, art, healthy habits, and social, moral and spiritual development.  Our program is licensed by the state of Ohio and our teachers meet the Step Up to Quality step three standards.
http://jfs.ohio.gov/cdc/docs/SUTQ-centerbenchmarks.pdf

We have full and half day options. All programs require advance registration at Blue Ash YMCA. A registration packet, enrollment and health form, medical statement signed by a physician, and registration fee are due at registration. Hamilton County subsidy is accepted.

Preschool Registration Packet

Enrollment and Health Information

Child Medical Statement

2012-2013 Preschool Parent Handbook

School Days Out
On days that area schools are not in session, leave the programming to us! We offer a variety of fun and enriching activities. Bring a packed lunch, swimsuit and towel. Children must be enrolled in advance and registration will end 5 days before the school’s day out.  Registration forms and child care enrollment packets are due with payment at the Welcome Center, registrations cannot be accepted at programs off-site.  There is a minimum of 10 participants for school’s day out to run.

Fees: Member: $30 a day; Program Participant: $40 a day
 

CHILDREN'S PROGRAMS

Child Watch
The Child Watch is included in family membership for kids 0-8 years of age. Parents and children will need membership cards or other picture ID to drop off or pick up children. You must stay on YMCA premises while children are in the childwatch. Limit two hours per day. Program transfers available for morning classes. 

Cool Club
The Cool Club is designed to meet the needs of 6-12 year olds, provides an exciting variety of supervised activities for children with all interests. The area includes a television, computers, interactive games, rock climbing wall, and other activities. It is an ideal way for kids to participate or just hang out while their parents use the facility.

AQUATICS

 

Free Swim Evaluation
To ensure that your child is placed in the appropriate class, the aquatics department strongly recommends a swim evaluation before registration.

Appointments may be made the day of the desired swim evaluation. The Blue Ash YMCA Aquatic Director will offer the evaluation unless appointed otherwise. If your child is under the age of six, a parent or guardian must be prepared to enter the water, if needed.

Private Swim Lessons
Get individualized attention at times that suit your schedule. Request forms at the front desk.

PRESCHOOL SWIM LESSONS

Children under three in water parent participation. Classes are designed to allow your child to have fun in the water while you guide him/her to learn aquatic skills. Children must wear snug fitting swim diapers.

Ski
Ages 6-24 months
By teaching parents to serve as instructors, we orient the 6-24 month old child to the water and develop beginning swimming skills. Class time will be structured with water and pool orientation, introduction to beginning swimming and structured water play. This is a family program and both parents are encouraged to attend. Potty training is not necessary, however, swim diapers are a must. No disposable diapers please.

Perch
Ages 2-3
The parent/child program is for toddlers ages 2-3 years old. Class time will be structured to accommodate water acclimation, introduction to beginning swimming skills and guided discovery. The “Perch” level is for preparing three year olds to the “Pike” level. Parents will accompany toddlers into the water. Toddlers need not be potty trained, however, swim diapers are a must. No disposable diapers please.

Skip
Ages 6 months – 36 months
This program promotes water enrichment and aquatic readiness for children
6 36 months of age. Parents will accompany their child in the water during this lesson and will learn ways to help their child become more comfortable in and around water.
 

Pike
Ages 3-5
The “Pike” level will introduce water acclimation, front and back float while wearing an instructional flotation device. Also front and back paddle stroke will be introduced both with and without flotation devices. For three year olds having completed the “Perch” level or three year - Kindergarten with little or no previous swimming instruction.

Eels
Ages 3-5
The “Eel” level develops youngsters abilities to swim on their own. Students must demonstrate independent front and back float for ten seconds. Students must swim 15 feet front, back and side paddle stroke while wearing an instructional flotation device and ten feet without. Students must have previously completed the “Pike” level.

Rays
 Ages 3-5
The “Ray” level is an advanced intermediate level for the preschool aged child. Students will demonstrate front paddle stroke with rhythmic breathing, 25 yards. Students will also learn both front and back symmetrical paddle strokes which are lead-up skills to breaststroke and elementary backstroke. Students must have previously completed the “Eel” level.

Starfish
Ages 3-5
The “Starfish” level has been specially designed for the advanced preschool swimmer. Refinement of front and back paddle stroke and elementary backstroke for 25 yards each is required. Swimmers will be introduced to breaststroke. Students must have previously completed the “Ray” level.
 

PROGRESSIVE SWIM LESSONS
Ages 6-12

Polliwog
The “Polliwog” level is for the beginning school age swimmers. Students will learn basic water adjustment as well as paddle stroke on their front, back and side while wearing or not wearing an instructional flotation device.

Guppy
The “Guppy” Level will teach students to be comfortable swimming and jump in deep water. Students will also learn the front paddle stroke using alternating arm movement using rhythmic breathing for 25 yards. Students will learn back and side alternating paddle strokes. Students must have previously completed the “Polliwog” level.

Minnow
The “Minnow” level introduces swimmers to paddle stroke with rotary breathing as well as refining the back paddle stroke. New strokes such as sidestroke, elementary backstroke and breaststroke will be introduced. Students must demonstrate all of the above strokes for 50 yards. Students must have previously completed the “Guppy” level.

Fish
The “Fish” level teaches students how to refine the following strokes for a distance of 50 yards: crawl stroke, backstroke, breaststroke, elementary backstroke and sidestroke. The butterfly stroke will be introduced at the “Fish “ level. Students must have previously completed the “Minnow” level.

Flying Fish
The “Flying Fish” level teaches how to refine the crawl stroke, backstroke, breaststroke, elementary backstroke and sidestroke for 100 yards. The butterfly will be demonstrated for a distance of 50 yards and the Lifesaving Medley will be introduced. Students must have previously completed the “Fish” level.

Shark
The “Shark” level is excellent preparation for Lifeguarding. Students will refine all strokes for 100 yards. Students will be introduced to the inverted breaststroke, over-arm sidestroke, trudgeon crawl and the individual medley. Students must have previously completed the “ Flying Fish” level.

Porpoise
The “Porpoise” level is an advanced level instruction for lifeguard training preparation, endurance, and competitive stroke techniques. Introduction to synchronized swimming and water polo maneuvers. Participants will also develop leadership skills by serving as instructor aides. Students must have previously completed the “Shark” level.
 

ADULT SWIM CLASSES

T.O.W. - Terrified of Water
Ages 13 and up
No swimming experience, little or no swimming skill. Fear of water.

Beginners
Ages 13 and up
Ability to swim 40 feet. Front and back unassisted.

COMPETITIVE SWIMMING

Swim Team Program
Dedicated to providing a quality competitive activity founded on the full development of each athlete. Contact the Director of Competitive Swimming at 791-5000, or go to the website www.swimbash.com for more information.

Stroke and Turn Clinic
Ages 6-12
Flip turns, dives off starting blocks and strokes. Great for those interested in swim team or skills not in basic swim lesson. Guppy level or above.

Master's Swim Team
Join the team for swim training four times a week, and alternate writing your practice. This program is open to any YMCA member and is free of charge. Prior competitive swim experience is recommended, but not required.

Scuba Classes and Certifications
Discover a new world through SCUBA! Classes and certification available through Scuba Unlimited. YMCA memberss get a discount so take your membership card when you sign up. Call 793-4747 for classes.
 

CAMP CREEKWOOD

Summer Day Camp is held outside and onsite each day from 9am to 4pm, in the 14 acres of woods directly behind the Blue Ash YMCA. Each day, campers learn new skills as they explore nature and make new friends, as well as participate in themed activities and camp traditions like Rock Soup and the Bead Ceremony. Campers swim each day and need a nutritious packed lunch. Each week the campers will attend a field trip or a unique experience is brought to Camp Creekwood. For more detailed information about Day Camp, check the website, give us a call, or stop by the Blue Ash YMCA! Hamilton County Vouchers accepted. Day Camp is for school age children through the age of 11. (They must have completed Kindergarten)

Pre and Post Camp
Pre- and Post-Camp are offered for busy parents. This program is held all weeks for school age children through age of 12. Drop off your kids as early as 6:30 a.m. and pick them up as late as 6 p.m. A completed registration packet is due at the time of registration, including an immunization record. Hamilton County vouchers accepted, financial assistance available.

Teen Camp
This camp is tailored to the evolving growth of the teenager, ages 12 - 14. Emphasis on leadership development, cultural awareness, and self-worth are combined with traditional camp fun. When they are not on a field trip, the campers will swim each day.

Counselor in Training (CIT)
Teens, ages 13 - 15 who are hoping to be future camp staff have the opportunity to get advanced training. The CIT program helps teens begin to develop the values, knowledge, skills and experience needed to be qualified and dedicated Camp Creekwood staff members in the future. It is also a perfect way for teens to serve camp and grow. Each week, CITs work with counselors, meet with their administrative coordinator and receive supportive supervision and evaluation. Those interested must complete both a camper and CIT application and will go through the interview process. Strong CITs are recommended to return for further development or are given a referral to be on staff the following summer as a Junior Counselor.

Preschool Camp 
These themed weeks will focus on new learning skills and fun. It runs from 9 a.m. - noon. A completed registration packet and medical form signed by a physician are due upon registration.

Specialty Camps
Come join us for specialized themed camps ranging from sports clinics to art enrichment and others. These camps are half-day and campers will improve on specific skills as well as learn and be involved in all sorts of new and creative experiences.
 

GYMNASTICS

Toddler/Preschool Tumbling
Introduce your preschooler to the fun of tumbling. Learn proper warm-ups, pre-gymnastic skills, balance beam and vaulting techniques, along with gymnastic vocabulary. It is recommended that children attend both days. Children new to gymnastics should begin with Tumble Bees class. All classes held in the gym.

Tumble Bees Ages 2 - 3
Pre-Tumbling Ages 3 - 4
Tumbling- Ages 4 - 5


Progressive Gymnastics Program
The Blue Ash YMCA is proud to offer a safe, fun and positive learning atmosphere for your children. Gymnastics takes time, patience, repetition, and a love of the sport in order to succeed. It is very important that parents and children understand that it takes a long time to achieve all the skills, strength, and flexibility necessary to advance to the next level. Children will progress to higher levels as skills and strength develops in each area of the sport: floor, vault, bars and beam. Progress in this sport can take time, therefore children can be expected to stay at the same level for several sessions. Your child must successfully pass (per their instructor) before registering for the next level. Please speak to your child’s instructor if you have any questions regarding registration.

For more information on the program or assistance with appropriately placing your child into the correct level, contact us at voice mail (513) 362-2000 x 2614.

Level One A 
This is the introductory level for young, inexperienced beginning gymnasts.  The building blocks of gymnastic skill, strength, flexibility and focus are the core of the class. 

Member: $43
Program Participant:$73

Level One B 
This is an introductory level for those who have mastered level 1 or for an older beginning gymnast who can focus appropriately.  Focus is the same as level 1 with greater emphasis on strength training and skill building.

Member: $50
Program Participant: $80

Level Two A
This is an advanced level for those who have demonstrated core competency.  Gymnasts can enter this class thru instructor recommendation only. 

Member: $50
Program Participant: $80
 

Level Two B
This level is invitation only and consists of one night a week to prepare the gymnast for skills, strength and flexibility necessary to be eligible for pre-team.

Member: $55
Program Participant: $89
 

Competitive Gymnastics Team
Home of the Nationally recognized “Blue Ash Bounders”, the team program seeks to develop self-esteem, good sportsmanship, and discipline through competitive gymnastics. Our competitive league is the Region 5 Southwest Ohio Cluster within the Great Lakes Zone. For more information, contact us at 791.5000 x2614 or visit the website www.blueashbounders.com.
 

HEALTH AND FITNESS

Success Appointment
Your health and well-being is important to us. Our staff can meet with you one-on-one to help you access goals and your plan to attain them. We encourage all members to schedule a free success appointment with our trained wellness staff and certified personal trainers. Let us assist you on your path to healthy living. Schedule your success appointment today (513) 791-5000.
 

Personal Training
Looking for a way to challenge yourself? Wanting to switch-up your fitness routine? Motivation and support is just one step away. The Blue Ash YMCA has certified personal trainers on staff that would love to help you meet your fitness goals.

Half-Hour Packages
Once per week: $30 per session or $120 per month
Twice per week: $27.50 per session or $220 per month
Three times per week: $25 per session or $300 per month

Additional packages are available. If you are interested in connecting with a personal trainer, please contact, Susan Leytze at (513) 791-5000.

Teen Fit
Ages 13-15
Required for teens ages 13-15 years to access the fitness center. Schedule an appointment with wellness staff or call Susan Leytze, 791-5000.  This one-on-one orientation provides fitness center rules and guidelines.  Focus is on cardiovascular and strength training exercise.  Teens will learn how to calculate their Target Heart Rate.  Education includes: nutrition, flexibility, and major muscles groups. Teens will be taught correct and safe methods to use the equipment. *Though not required, members ages 16-17 are encouraged to take Teen Fit if they are new to the fitness center and just beginning an exercise program.

GROUP EXERCISE CLASSES

Get in shape, meet new friends and stay motivated to workout! Just show up - no registration is required. All classes are open to members ages 13 and up. Children ages 10-12 may participate with a parent present.

Bar Strength/Bar Bootcamp
Bar strength utilizes challenging choreography in a 45 minute class using individual barbells. Cardio bar includes this same dynamic format adding a cardio circuit component.

Body Sculpting
Lift weights in a classroom setting to firm and shape the upper body (arms, chest, back) and lower body (hips, thighs, abs). Participants work with hand weights to improve muscle tone, flexibility, and posture. Balls and bands may also be used.

Dance Aerobics
This combines high and low impact steps for a challenging cardiovascular conditioning program. This class is for dance enthusiasts looking for a total body workout. Toning and firming is included.

Group Cycling
Participate in our cycling class to improve cardiovascular endurance and strength. You can reserve a bike by phone one hour before class time. For early morning classes, phone reservations are taken the evening prior. Space is limited due to the number of bikes.

Pilates
This mat-based class will help to improve core strength and body alignment. Join anytime.

Silver Sneakers® Muscular Strength and Range of Motion
Have fun and move to the music through a variety of exercises designed to increase muscular strength, range of movement and activity for daily living skills. Handheld weights, elastic tubing with handles, and a ball are offered for resistance, and a chair is used for seated and/or standing support.

Silver Sneakers®  Cardio Circuit
Combine fun with fitness to increase your cardiovascular and muscular endurance power with a standing circuit workout. Upper-body strength work with hand-held weights, elastic tubing with handles, and a ball is alternated with non-impact aerobic choreography. A chair is offered for support, stretching, and relaxation exercises.

Step and Strength
A 75-minute class divided into 45-minute step and 30-minute weight training sessions.

Strength Circuit
An Interval class using Body Sculpting with a twist: challenge yourself with intervals of cardio and toning segments combined for a great workout.

Tai-Chi
A healing martial art that combines many martial art movements with QI (energy) circulation, breathing, and stretching.

Yoga
For all fitness levels. Stretch, tone, strengthen, breathe, relieve stress, and energize with traditional Hatha Yoga.

Yogalates
This new format combines the best of Yoga and Pilates for a dynamic strengthening and conditioning class.

Zumba
Zumba uses interval training and a combo of fast and slow rhythms to help burn calories while toning and sculpting. Zumba includes merengue, salsa, mambo, cumbia, rumba, flamenco, raggeaton, and calypso. Fun and easy, but a serious workout!
 

YOUTH SPORTS LEAGUES

Soccer League
Boys and girls are placed by age (3 - 4, 5 - 6, and 7 - 8). One assigned practice per week and league play on Saturdays. 7 – 8 year old league will play and travel to other YMCA’s. Team t-shirts are provided for Volunteer coaches and players.

T-Ball League
Boys and girls ages 4 - 6 are assigned to age appropriate teams. League play and practices on Friday evenings beginning at 5:30 p.m. (A short practice prior to each game.) Team shirts are provided for players and Volunteer coaches.

Introductory Basketball League
Boys and girls ages 3 - 6 are assigned to age appropriate teams. League play and practices on Saturdays mornings. Team shirts are provided for players and volunteer coaches.

Youth Basketball League
Boys and girls ages 7-11 are assigned to age appropriate teams. League play and practices on Monday or Wednesdays evenings and League play will take place on Saturday mornings.  Team shirts are provided for players and Volunteer coaches.

Parents-We need your help! 
Parents are encouraged to assist with youth sports programs as coaches, assistant coaches, referees and team parent coordinators.
 

 
WATER FITNESS

Aqua-Motion/Silver Splash
Begin with this low-impact toning and stretching. Set to music for fun and motivation, this one hour class will enable you to work at your own level of intensity using various forms of exercise and water walking for cardiovascular fitness. No swimming skills required.

Deep Water Workout
Using a water belt for buoyancy, this moderate to high intensity water class will provide a non-impact cardiovascular endurance workout for all fitness levels. Must be comfortable in deep end.

Hydro'Robics
A high energy, low-impact water-aerobic program enabling participants to improve cardiovascular conditioning as well as flexibility and muscle tone. Designed for the fit adult, the class can be adapted to various fitness levels. No swimming skills required.

Liquid Cardio
This moderate intensity, low impact water workout is a one hour class that combines muscular strength andendurance exercises with cardiovascular training. Individuals are able to work at various levels. No swimming skills required.

Warm Water Workout
This class helps to maintain and/or increase range of motion, flexibility and endurance. The warm water, moderate pace and gentle exercises make it ideal for persons with physical limitations such as arthritis or previous injury. No swimming skills required.
 

YOUTH PROGRAMS

Martial Arts-Tae Kwon Do
Ages 6 and up
Learn the ancient art of Korean Karate at your own pace. An excellent program to enhance your level of physical fitness, gain self-confidence, and improve self-discipline while learning this traditional art of self-defense. Contact Welcome Center for more information.

Teen Fit
Ages 13 - 15
Required for teens ages 13-15 years to access the fitness center. Schedule an appointment with wellness staff or call Susan Leytze, 791-5000.  This one-on-one orientation provides fitness center rules and guidelines.  Focus is on cardiovascular and strength training exercise.  Teens will learn how to calculate their Target Heart Rate.  Education includes: nutrition, flexibility, and major muscles groups. Teens will be taught correct and safe methods to use the equipment. *Though not required, members ages 16-17 are encouraged to take Teen Fit if they are new to the fitness center and just beginning an exercise program.

Boot Camp
Ages 3 - 5
This class teaches fitness for kids utilizing obstacle courses, ropes, cones, balls, etc. to help children with coordination and strength.

Gym Tots
Age 2
Focusing on large motor skills utilizing climbing equipment, slides, tunnels, balls and more! A great class for that first away from parent experience.

Short Sports
Ages 3 - 6
Introduce the younger child to a new sport or activity each week: t-ball, soccer, basketball and more. This class includes playtime and exercise.

Toddler Play
Ages 16 - 24 months
Children and parents will experience a mixture of games, music, and gym activities that encourage learning by exploration and observation.

Tippi Toes Dance
Ages 18 months - 12
Combination classes including ballet, tap, jazz and hip-hop! Visit www.tippitoesdance.com for more information or call Miss Andrea to register for the class at 578-1280.

Homeschool Swim and Gym
Ages 5-12
Looking for physical education opportunities for your homeschooler? Look no further! The Blue Ash YMCA offers a Home School Swim and Gym program for children ages 5-12. This physical education program will be held in the gym and the pool, emphasizing skill development for lifelong physical activities, while having fun and using skills to play games. This program runs in seven-week sessions during the school year.

Super Sense
Ages 3-5
Get acquainted with the five senses while experiencing this great world. Children will look, listen, smell, taste, and feel through activities and crafts.
 

Fairy Tale Foods
Ages 3-5
Venture into the magical land of fairy tales. Children will make yummy snack to go along with a fairy tale. Reading never tasted so good!

Alphabet Adventure
Ages 3-5
Explore the alphabet through stories, songs, crafts, and activities.

Crafty Tales
Ages 3-5
Children will complete various arts and crafts based on a weekly story.

Somewhere over the Rainbow
Ages 3-5
Journey through a rainbow of imagination in this creative art class. Children will use multiple mediums to explore each color of the rainbow.

No-Cook Cooking
Ages 6-12
Children will learn to make delicious and nutritious snacks without using a stove.
 

Wearable Art
Ages 6-12
Art projects that you can wear! Activities include tye dye, beaded jewelry, and more.
 

Ooey Gooey Fun
Ages 6-12
Come make a mess while creating fun concoctions, such as oobleck and play-doh.
 

AUTISM INCLUSION PROGRAM

This program is an approved Autism Scholarship provider through the Ohio Department of Education. The program is designed to implement a child's IEP (Individualized Education Program) and provide the needed therapies to achieve their goals. Program components include 1:1 instruction time, ABA instruction, Speech and Occupational therapy, swimming, music, and sensory and gross motor gym activities. The program also has inclusion opportunities with the YMCA preschool for social and peer interaction.  This program is designed to allow a child with autism to experience preschool while maintaining the structure, therapy and academics that they need to learn and grow, in order to become as independent as possible.