Youth Classes

Our community celebrates the joys of childhood and encourages the independence of youth. Most youth classes are on pause during the COVID-19 pandemic; however, virtual classes may become available. Be sure to watch our social media channels and read our emails for the latest news about programming. Read below for a sample of classes previously offered at the JCC and contact your program directors if you have ideas for virtual offerings.

 

Early Childhood Classes Uptown Only

Contact Amanda Taylor with questions. 

ABCs and 123s

Ages: 4 to 5 (enrolled in PK4)
Early learners will explore the world of sounds, letters, and numbers. Through playful games and fun educational manipulative tools, children will begin to build the foundation of both early literacy and fine motor skills. Classes will focus on sound-letter recognition and basic story comprehension, as well as writing uppercase letters and numbers. ABCs and 123s is led by speech-language pathologist Lesley Brown from NOLA Speech and Language and Kimberly Bradley, an occupational therapist with Kim4Kids. 

Ballet

Ages: 3 to 5
Our littlest dancers continue learning the fundamentals of ballet while also developing their balance and gross motor skills. Open to new and returning students. Ballet shoes are required.

Creativity Corner

Young artists will explore their creative side through hands-on art activities in a variety of art mediums that encourage inquiry, imagination, and positive sense of self in this fun class led by Ada Wolin, a JCC Nursery School teacher. Fifteen total classes. 
 

Gymnastics

Ages: 1 to 5
Boys and girls will learn progressive gymnastic skills that teach balance, strength, and agility. Develop new skills, be challenged, and have fun with instructor Jennifer Daley! 

Little Chefs

Ages: 3 to 5
Participants will expand their palettes by preparing and tasting a variety of healthy snacks and treats. Twelve total classes.

Little Yoga

Ages: 4 to 5
In Little Yoga, our youngest yogis will develop positive relationships with their bodies by practicing poses inspired by their favorite animals from the jungle, ocean, and farm. They will explore basic movements and teamwork through yoga story time and various yoga games, as well as learn relaxation techniques and breathing exercises they can try at school or at home to help them create peace and monitor their own energy levels. Most importantly, yogis will have fun! Twelve total classes. No class on November 23.

Uptown

Contact Brigid MacArthur-Thompson with questions. 

Dance Foundations 

Grades: K - 2
This introductory class focuses on classical ballet techniques with exposure to traditional jazz, modern, musical theater, and contemporary/lyrical dance genres. Students are taught the foundations of ballet alignment, basic positions, carriage of the arms, and class etiquette. This engaging class is a positive way for your young dancer to stay active and healthy while learning the art of dance!

Emerging Artists

Grades: 2 - 4
The JCC art studio is a fun and encouraging place to explore creativity and imagination. You will discover a variety of mixed media such as collage work, India ink, drawing, painting, sculpture, and even poetry. We will also learn about famous artists and how they have influenced our love for art and life. And best of all, you will have the chance to get messy!

Innovative Improv

Grades: 3 - 5
Learn the basics of improv through games and activities and sharpen your creative acting skills during skits and mini scenes. This class will provide a place to express yourself through spoken word, movement, and group activities. It’s a perfect way to make friends, learn new skills and have fun.

Young Adult Yoga

Grades: 5 - 7
In this class designed for emerging yogis, we will practice poses, breathing, and positive thinking. From your first Downward Dog to learning how to do Crow Pose, this class is for you. Treat yourself with a Savasana and essential oils at the end of every class.

Young Yogis 

Grades: K - 2
Through cooperative games, themed activities, music, and art, your young yogis will engage their natural energy and enthusiasm. We will explore yoga poses, breathing exercises, visual imagery, and relaxation techniques with lessons in self-expression, social skills, and positive thinking.
 

Zen and Friends Family Yoga

Ages: 4 and up
 This class features 30 minutes of yoga instruction for children and their adults, working together to incorporate movement, mindfulness, and basic yoga instruction. During the second half of class, adults participate in their own yoga class, while the children have quality active play on the playground or in the gym. Family Yoga is a wonderful way to bond with your young one, while being zen and making friends.

Metairie

Contact Terrance Perkins with questions.

Ballet

Young dancers learn the fundamentals of ballet while developing balance, flexibility and grace. Open to new and returning students. Ballet shoes, a water bottle and masks are required.
 

Challenge Island - World Tour

You and a group of friends will engineer your way around the globe - from the Eiffel Tower to the Sydney Harbor Bridge to the Taj Mahal to an African Safari. Each week participants will work in small groups to solve S.T.E.A.M. based challenges all while learning about different landmarks and cultures around the world. Challenge Island’s unique, high energy, high interest, hands on program feels like an exciting island vacation without ever leaving the JCC.

Gymnastics

Children will learn progressive skills in gymnastics. Boys and girls are taught gymnastics skills that will teach balance, strength, and agility. You will learn new skills, be challenged, and have fun.

LEGO®Builders 

Come build the tallest skyscraper or the sturdiest bridge. Each week we will complete challenges through creative building and play. Builders will have their own work spaces and Lego pieces as we work together to conquer LEGO® sets step by step.

Young Yogis

Through cooperative games, themed activities, music, and art, your young yogis will engage their natural energy and enthusiasm. We will explore yoga poses, breathing exercises, visual imagery, and relaxation techniques with lessons in self-expression, social skills, and positive thinking.