Arts & More
We offer art classes for ages 6 to 14. Check our catalog for specific classes offered in upcoming sessions.
Art Classes
Shine Time
We invite young people on the spectrum, along with their parents, to join us on the last Thursday of each month as we explore hands-on activities including art, sensory crafts, and games. Number of participants is limited. Register online to secure a spot in class.
Last Thursday Of The Month
Beginning September 26th
No Class November 28th
No Class December 2nd
5:30 – 6:30pm • Meyer Center
Free for Everyone!
YMCA Jr. Art *NEW*
In this elementary-level painting class, students will learn the basics of acrylic and watercolor paint. They will create projects based on fundamental techniques and explore different forms of mark-making. Students can look forward to painting using various materials such as sponges, palette knives, straws, salt, and more! In the final class, students will try paint throwing. We welcome all
budding artists having an interest in the arts.
THURSDAY • 5:00 – 6:00PM • MEYER CENTER
MEMBERS: $70 • NON-MEMBERS: $105
Anime Artistry *NEW*
Do you enjoy anime or manga? Do you have a desire to learn how to draw your favorite characters? In this class, students will learn many anime and manga-style drawing elements. The class will go over constructing facial anatomy such as eyes and hair. Students will learn different shading techniques used in their favorite shows and manga, such as cel-shading and crosshatching. Lesson on paneling and organizing a comic page will result in students being able to make their own page of manga! Whether you currently draw anime or want to learn, this class will have something for everyone.
THURSDAY • 6:15 – 7:45PM • MEYER CENTER
MEMBERS: $96 • NON-MEMBERS: $144
Educational Offerings
Safe Sitter (Ages 11+)
Calling all baby-sitters 11 and up! This nationally recognized, medically accurate, hands-on class teaches boys and girls how to handle emergencies such as injury management and choking rescue while caring for children. Students will learn the basics of childcare through games, activities and role play. Course includes a Safe Sitters tote bag starter kit and manual ($30 value). Class size is limited. Pizza will be provided for lunch.
One Day Class! Class size limited.
Members $95 • Non-Members $145
YMCA Robotics (7 - 14)
This basic robotics class will challenge students’ thinking by introducing
block programming and building with specified Legos. Students will be
exposed to all of the benefits of STEM including building bonds with
their peers and learning more about our world.
Ages 7 – 10
Meyer Center
Ages 10 – 14
Meyer Center
Youth Ambassadors
If you enjoy helping people and would like an opportunity to share your ideas for making your community better for all, we invite you to be a part of this community supporting team. We welcome all young people who can be art loving, sports minded, bookish, extroverted, introverted and those of all interests to join us once a week, for 3 Tuesdays out of each month to participate in planning and participating in projects that lift us all up!
Check our Catalog for more information!
View Our Catalog ›Interactive Storytime *NEW*
Interactive Storytime is a FREE event sponsored by the YMCA Youth Ambassadors. Children ages 4 to 6 are invited to express themselves by acting out stories with the Ambassadors as they are read aloud. Creative movement and noise are encouraged! Comfortable clothing is recommended.
Meyer Center
FREE FOR EVERYONE!
See the catalog for more information on availability and registration.
Edwardsville Arts Center Classes
Every summer, the Edwardsville Y collaborates with the Edwardsville Arts Center to offer Specialty Camps taught by professionally educated working artists from the community.
The camps are offered in EAC’s well-equipped space at 340 Montclaire Ave.
(the former Edwardsville Fire Station)
Learn More ›