Youth Growth & Family Connection
At the Y, kids and teens have the opportunity to grow, explore new interests, and build confidence through a wide range of experiences. From creative activities to active play and hands-on learning, every program is designed to help young people discover what they love and who they’re becoming.
Many of our programs also invite families to be part of the journey—creating space for shared moments, stronger connections, and memories that last well beyond the activity itself.
Sports
The Arlington-Mansfield Area YMCA offers a variety of sports where our sports staff, coaches and volunteers all share a singular vision of helping everyone reach their full potential in life. Our sports programs are for all, helping to build confidence and positive relationships that lead to good sportsmanship and teamwork, with flexibility in offerings and schedules in mind that are designed for family convenience.
Youth & Government
Youth and Government™ is a national program of the Y that involves thousands of teens nationwide in state-organized, model-government programs. Students from every corner of the U.S. have the opportunity to immerse themselves in experiential civic engagement and to, quite literally, practice democracy. Teens from across every state meet in their local Youth and Government™ groups throughout the year to discuss and debate issues that affect citizens of their state and to propose legislation. The program culminates with teens serving as delegates at their state conference, debating bills on the floor of the legislature.
Archery
Our program is designed to teach youth and adults the fundamentals of archery. It focuses on concentration, patience, and confidence essential for safety and enjoyment of the sport. We want you and your kids to have fun and meet new friends in a non-competitive environment. Instructors are USA Archery Certified.
Martial Arts
The Martial Arts program provides instruction in kicks, blocks, and punches for self-defense to kids and adults. We focus on teaching the tenets of courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control and Indomitable spirit while building strength and balance in a positive, can-do environment.
STEAM CENTER
In STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math) programs, youth are engaged in activities that nurture their curiosity, inspire creativity, and cultivate the engineering mindset. Participants in STEAM programs explore careers and fields through real world learning. The STEAM Center at Mansfield YMCA is a partnership between the Arlington-Mansfield Area YMCA and STEM It Up Sports to provide experiences for schools and the public to promote various levels of biotechnology, information technology, and robotics. Click here to learn more about STEM It Up Sports.
Robotics
Robotics is an introduction for kids of all ages to the world of coding, problem-solving, and team work using Sphero Indi Cars. Kids will explore robotics through technology, block coding using colors & mathematics, and applying the engineering design process. Early exposure to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Math) will promote positive academic engagement during school years and beyond! Robotics is an included program for YMCA members. Robotics at the AMA YMCA is a partnership with STEM It Up Sports.
Esports
Get the game started with our competitive Esports leagues for all levels with games such as Super Smash Bros, Rocket League, and Fortnite. Esports is an included program for YMCA members. Esports at the AMA YMCA is a partnership with STEM It Up Sports.
Ceramics
Held every Saturday afternoon at the South YMCA, the ceramics painting class is a fun, hands-on way for families to slow down and create something together. Parents and kids can share the experience, spark creativity, and enjoy quality time without screens or distractions. This hands-on experience also encourages patience and a sense of accomplishment from start to finish. It’s a simple, engaging way for young artists to unwind, create, and take pride in something they made themselves.
Youth & Family Music Classes
Our YMCAs offer arts and education classes for the whole family including music, dance, and art. Our introductory group piano & guitar classes foster a love of music and teach the basics of counting and rhythm for youth and adults. Plus, they’re included in a YMCA membership at no additional charge.
Parents’ Night Out
Go out on a dinner date with your significant other or enjoy a night out on the town with friends while we will take care of your kiddos! Our YMCA’s Parent’s Night Out provides safe, quality care for children ages 6-weeks through 12 years of age every Friday and Saturday night of the year. Parent’s Night Out is just one of many benefits of having a YMCA Family Membership.
Summer Day Camp
No one does camp like the Y! Offered at two locations in Arlington and Mansfield, YMCA camp participants get the full camp experience and have a blast in a safe, enriching environment, surrounded by positive role models. Our focus on achievement, relationships and belonging will help your child make new friends, develop independence and try new things. Whether it’s a traditional Arlington-Mansfield summer camp or sports camp, pick your desired experience and register today!
Holiday Camps
When School is out, the Y is in! School breaks will be here before you know it! Join us for our YMCA Holiday Camps where your child will have a blast participating in a wide-array of enrichment activities, fun and games. Camp at the Y is about discovery. Kids will find unknown talents, try new activities and make lasting friendships and memories. Space is limited, so register in advance!
Before & After School Care
The AMA YMCA’s Before & After School program is designed to give kids a safe, structured environment outside of school hours while supporting working families. The program blends academic support, hands-on enrichment, and physical activity through STEM-based learning, creative experiences, and active play. Activities are intentionally designed to reinforce classroom learning while helping children build confidence, social skills, and healthy habits. Families can register for programs offered at participating school sites, with flexible options to fit their schedules.
