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.
STEM It Up Sports Robotics at the Mansfield YMCA:
Early Robotics: Ages 5-6
An introduction to the world of Sphero. Children can explore robotics through the easy-to-use Sphero Indi and start learning skills that will benefit them for years to come.
Robotics 1 & 2: Ages 7-14
Through these programs, students will learn how to use the Sphero Bolt and all of its applications. They will develop important problem-solving skills and learn how to code and read Javascript.
Advanced Robotics
Introduces advanced concepts programming multiple devices, working in engineering teams to problem-solve and conduct peer reviewing of various tasks and competing among their peers. Learners will explore rovers, littles bits, bolts, and provide various presentations demonstrating their skills. *Must have completed Robotics 1 & 2 classes before enrolling in Advanced Robotics.
Classes take place at the Mansfield YMCA STEAM Center.
Included Program for Members (Join today!)
Non-Members: $159
In Partnership With:
YMCA Robotics at the TCF YMCA Youth Program Center:
Robotics for Ages 5 to 7 & 8 to 14
Introduce your child to the world of robotics through hands-on exploration, creativity, and teamwork. Using Sphero BOLT +, Indi Car and RVR + robots, participants will take on real-world inspired challenges and learn how to code their robots to complete specific tasks.
Through interactive, team-based activities, students will explore block coding, navigation, and the engineering design process while building problem-solving, leadership, and collaboration skills. This program encourages curiosity, confidence, and critical thinking in a fun, engaging environment—and offers early exposure to potential pathways in coding and engineering.
Classes take place at the Trinity Community Foundation YMCA Youth Program Center (2200 S. Davis Dr., Arlington, TX 76013).
Included Program for Members (Join today!)
Non-Members: $159
In Partnership With:
Coming Soon to the TCF YMCA Digital Studio:
PC Gaming Lab – Summer 2026
The PC Gaming Lab at the TCF YMCA Youth Program Center will provide a safe, structured environment where youth can enjoy gaming while building social connections and digital skills.
Participants will have access to high-performance gaming PCs and age-appropriate games like Minecraft, Rocket League, Roblox, Super Mario, and Fortnite —encouraging teamwork, problem-solving, and positive peer interaction. Whether playing casually or participating in organized activities, the focus is on fun, collaboration, and community.
The Gaming Lab will be supervised by trained YMCA staff. Communication features within games are restricted to prevent interaction with users outside of the lab, creating a secure and controlled experience for all participants.
Drone Academy – Fall 2026
Take learning to new heights this fall with our hands-on Drone Program at the TCF YMCA Youth Program Center. Using educational drones powered by STEMfinity, participants will explore the fundamentals of flight, coding, and engineering through interactive challenges and real-world scenarios.
Students will learn by doing—they will program drones, will navigate obstacle courses, and will work together to complete team-based missions. This technology-driven experience will encourage problem-solving, will build critical thinking skills, and will strengthen collaboration, all while introducing key STEM concepts in a fun and engaging way.
Participants will discover how drones provide a real-world application of STEM skills and will begin to connect what they learn to how it’s used beyond the classroom.
Benefits Include:
Introduction of computer science skills using nationally-accredited standards from the Computer Science Teachers Association (CSTA)
Improve computational
thinking, build interpersonal skills and learn to work well in a team setting
Develop “representational fluency”: Improve student’s competence with STEM discipline representation and translate between them through practiced demonstration practice.
