Homeschool Program Electives

Our Fall 2026 session invites students to build skills, explore interests, and grow in confidence through thoughtfully designed enrichment classes that support the whole child. This division offers a dynamic mix of hands-on learning, creative expression, movement, and collaboration, giving students meaningful opportunities to learn while connecting with peers.

At this new location, we are offering half day and single class options as we gauge the interest of new families and the needs of the community.

• Tuesdays (Ages 11-14)
  • 10:15 AM – 11:45 AM Mario Kart Makerspace
  • 11:45 AM – 12:45 PM Lunch HOUR [included in PM Half Day Registration ONLY]
    • 12:15 PM – 12:45 PM Service Learning Projects
  • 12:45 PM – 2:00 PM Robot Tinker Lab

• Thursdays (Ages 5-11)
  • 10:15 AM – 11:45 AM Comic Book Club
  • 11:45 AM – 12:15 PM Lunch HOUR[included in PM Half Day Registration ONLY]
    • 12:15 PM – 12:45 PM Strategic Math Games
  • 12:45 PM – 2:00 PM Earth & Space Science

Age waivers available upon request

Minimum registration needed: 5 students (Max 14)

Each class is intentionally structured to encourage curiosity, problem-solving, and self-expression while remaining developmentally appropriate and fun. Lessons balance guided instruction with student choice, allowing children to explore new ideas, practice independence, and take pride in their work.

Whether students are returning or joining us for the first time, Fall 2026 offers a welcoming environment where learners can try something new, deepen existing interests, and continue building a strong foundation for lifelong learning.

Course Descriptions

PM Half Day Elective Class – One day a week

This once‑a‑week program offers a balanced mix of enrichment and skill‑building through rotating electives such as Theater, Science, Elective Sampler, Social‑Emotional Learning, and Academic Support. Students learn through play, projects, and group experiences that encourage problem‑solving, independence, and positive peer relationships—all within a flexible homeschool‑friendly structure. Schedules vary by location, please look at the posted schedule for more details.

Comic Book Club (ELA – Creative Writing & Publishing)

Perfect for storytellers and artists alike! Students create original comic books while developing storytelling, sequencing, and expressive writing skills. Adaptable for early readers and non‑writers, this class emphasizes creativity, visual storytelling, and the pride of becoming a published author.

Earth & Space Science

Blast off into hands‑on discovery! Students will investigate Earth’s landforms, water, weather, and natural resources while also discovering the Sun, Moon, planets, stars, and space exploration. Lessons emphasize curiosity, observation, and exploration through hands-on experiments, creative projects, discussions, and group activities. The class is designed for mixed-age learning, allowing all students to engage with the same core topics while participating at their own developmental level.

Lunch Bunch: Social Emotional Learning

Bring your lunch and build community! Through games, challenges, and guided conversations, students strengthen friendship skills, teamwork, and growth mindset while enjoying a relaxed, social environment.

Mario Kart Makerspace

Gaming meets engineering! Students design and build custom race tracks using Mario Kart Live while exploring early concepts in physics, engineering, and design thinking. Play becomes purposeful as creativity and problem‑solving drive each build.

Robot Tinker Lab

Young engineers design, build, and test exciting creations while learning through hands‑on tinkering. Projects may include simple circuits, drones, mini robots, and engineering challenges that encourage curiosity, experimentation, and problem‑solving.

Service Learning Projects

Students make a real difference through hands‑on service projects focused on community outreach, conservation, and helping others. This elective nurtures empathy, leadership, teamwork, and civic responsibility while empowering students to create meaningful impact.

Strategic Math Games

Math becomes an adventure through interactive games, puzzles, and hands‑on challenges. Students strengthen problem‑solving, logic, and strategic thinking while learning in a playful, low‑pressure environment.

Are you looking for something fun for your child to do this summer? Something Hands-on, Student Led, and Interest based? 

The YMCA Homeschool Elective and Support Programs is hosting Family Field Trips, Weeklong Day Camps, and Social Events ALL SUMMER LONG!

Locations:
Maple Center, Fullerton

ALL of our facilities host weekly summer camps, however these two weeks are Homeschool Specific!

YMCA Homeschool Camp Week 1: Pioneers in the Outdoors -9:00am -12:00PM- CANCELLED- Not enough interest to host.

YMCA Homeschool Camp Week 2: Splash & Sea Discovery -9:00am -12:00PM 

This one-week drop-off homeschool camp is the perfect way to dive into summer! Campers will explore the great outdoors through hands-on nature-based experiences that spark creativity, curiosity, and connection.

Camp Fee: $176 per child
Time: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Optional Lunch Bunch (Extended Care): $50
From 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM, campers can stay for a relaxed social hour with crafts, games, and enrichment activities.

Spaces are limited—secure your child’s spot today!

Meet the Teacher: Open House & Mock Class Day

Curious about our Homeschool Electives? Come meet the teachers, explore our classrooms, and get a feel for our program with sample mini-lessons and hands-on activities. Families can ask questions, meet other homeschoolers, and see if our drop-off classes are the right fit. A great way to start the year with confidence and community!

Registration will open once dates are confirmed!

Summer Park Day Series – Drop-In Fun for Homeschool Families!

Join us for our free summer Park Day Series, where families come together for themed activities, playtime, and community connection! These are not drop-off events—parents must remain onsite.

Registration will open once dates are confirmed!

Bring water, sunscreen, and your creative energy!

Summer Field Trips – Explore with Us!

Join our homeschool community for unforgettable adventures! Families must register in advance. These events are open to all homeschool families, even if you’re not enrolled in YMCA classes.

Confirm your registration to be in the party… any COSTS of admissions, families will pay at the event.

Keep an eye out all summer long as we may add more fun things to the calendar!  Follow us on instagram for event updates! @ymcahomeschool

Our Fall 2026 session invites students to build skills, explore interests, and grow in confidence through thoughtfully designed enrichment classes that support the whole child. This division offers a dynamic mix of hands-on learning, creative expression, movement, and collaboration, giving students meaningful opportunities to learn while connecting with peers.

At the Fullerton location, we are offering am or pm half day, full day and single class options:

• Monday 
  • 10:00am -12:00pm TK Kinder Art Exploration (Ages 4-5) SINGLE CLASS OPTION ONLY
  • 12:30pm – 2:00pm Middle School Entrepreneurs (Ages 11-14) SINGLE CLASS OPTION ONLY

• Tuesdays (Ages 5-12)
  •  9:00 AM – 10:00 AM Music Through Strings Ukelele
    • 10:00 AM- 10:15 Supervised Snack & Transition
  • 10:15 AM – 11:45 AM Kulinary Kids (age recommendation 7 or kitchen experience)
  • 11:45 AM – 12:45 PM Lunch HOUR  [included in PM and Full Day Registration ONLY]
    • 12:15 PM – 12:45 PM SEL/ Outside Play
  • 12:45 PM – 1:45 PM Life Skills Lab

• Thursdays (Ages 5-12)
  • 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM World Explorers Workshop
    • 10:00 AM- 10:15 Supervised Snack & Transition
  • 10:15 AM – 11:15 AM American Sign Language
  • 11:15 AM – 11:45 Academic Support [included in PM and Full Day Registration ONLY]
  • 11:45 AM – 12:45 PM Lunch HOUR [included in PM and Full Day Registration ONLY]
    • 12:15 PM – 12:45 PM SEL Outside Play
  • 12:45 PM – 1:45 PM Earth & Space Science

Age waivers available upon request
Minimum registration needed: 5 students (Max 14)  

Each class is intentionally structured to encourage curiosity, problem-solving, and self-expression while remaining developmentally appropriate and fun. Lessons balance guided instruction with student choice, allowing children to explore new ideas, practice independence, and take pride in their work.

Whether students are returning or joining us for the first time, Fall 2026 offers a welcoming environment where learners can try something new, deepen existing interests, and continue building a strong foundation for lifelong learning.

Course Descriptions

AM Half Day Elective Class – One day a week

A once‑a‑week elective experience designed for creativity, exploration, and connection. Students rotate through engaging, hands‑on electives such as Art Lab, Kulinary Kids cooking, Engineering, STEAM Challenges, Social‑Emotional Learning, and Academic Support. Learning is student‑led and interest‑based, allowing children to follow curiosity while building confidence, collaboration, and core skills in a relaxed, supportive environment. Schedules vary by location, please look at the posted schedule for more details.

PM Half Day Elective Class – One day a week

This once‑a‑week program offers a balanced mix of enrichment and skill‑building through rotating electives such as Theater, Science, Elective Sampler, Social‑Emotional Learning, and Academic Support. Students learn through play, projects, and group experiences that encourage problem‑solving, independence, and positive peer relationships—all within a flexible homeschool‑friendly structure. Schedules vary by location, please look at the posted schedule for more details.

AM Half Day Elective Class – Two days a week

A two‑day‑per‑week elective program offering consistency, community, and creative exploration. Students rotate through engaging, hands‑on electives such as Art Lab, Kulinary Kids cooking, Engineering, STEAM Challenges, Social‑Emotional Learning, and Academic Support. Learning is student‑led and interest‑based, allowing children to follow curiosity while building confidence, collaboration, and core skills in a relaxed, supportive environment. Schedules vary by location, please look at the posted schedule for more details..

PM Half Day Elective Class – Two days a week

A two‑day‑per‑week elective program offering consistency, community, and creative exploration. Students rotate electives such as Theater, Science, Elective Sampler, Social‑Emotional Learning, and Academic Support. Students learn through play, projects, and group experiences that encourage problem‑solving, independence, and positive peer relationships—all within a flexible homeschool‑friendly structure. Schedules vary by location, please look at the posted schedule for more details.

Full Day Elective Class – One Day a week

A full‑day immersive elective experience where students explore a variety of interest‑driven classes throughout the day. Rotating offerings include Comic Book Club, Kulinary Kids cooking, Engineering, Coding & Makerspace, Social‑Emotional Learning, and Academic Support. This program supports deeper engagement, peer collaboration, and self‑direction while maintaining a joyful, hands‑on approach to learning. Schedules vary by location, please look at the posted schedule for more details.

Full Day Elective Class – Two days a week

A two‑day‑per‑week elective program offering consistency, community, and creative exploration. Our most immersive homeschool option, combines hands‑on electives with strong community building. Students explore an evolving mix of Comic Book Club, Kulinary Kids cooking, Engineering, Makerspace, Strategic Math, Social Studies, and enrichment activities. Learning is collaborative, flexible, and student‑driven, supporting both academic growth and social‑emotional development through meaningful experiences. Schedules vary by location, please look at the posted schedule for more details.

Academic Support

A supportive, calm space for students to focus on assignments, projects, and independent work. With encouragement from staff, students build organization, responsibility, and self‑advocacy skills—without the pressure of traditional tutoring. Perfect for learners who benefit from accountability and a structured work block.

American Sign Language (ASL & Deaf Culture)

Students explore the beauty of American Sign Language through games, movement, storytelling, and real conversation practice. This interactive class builds communication skills, memory, coordination, and empathy while introducing Deaf culture and alternative ways to connect with others.

Earth & Space Science

Blast off into hands‑on discovery! Students will investigate Earth’s landforms, water, weather, and natural resources while also discovering the Sun, Moon, planets, stars, and space exploration. Lessons emphasize curiosity, observation, and exploration through hands-on experiments, creative projects, discussions, and group activities. The class is designed for mixed-age learning, allowing all students to engage with the same core topics while participating at their own developmental level.

Kulinary Kids

Young chefs explore the joy of cooking through hands‑on food prep, taste exploration, and kitchen creativity. Students practice basic cooking skills, teamwork, and motor coordination while building confidence and a positive relationship with food.

Life Skills Lab

Practical life skills made fun! Students learn essentials like simple cooking, sewing, budgeting, organization, and personal responsibility. Older students may choose to add the Safe Sitters Program, supporting leadership and real‑world readiness.

Lunch Bunch: Social Emotional Learning

Bring your lunch and build community! Through games, challenges, and guided conversations, students strengthen friendship skills, teamwork, and growth mindset while enjoying a relaxed, social environment.

Middle School Entrepreneurship

Calling all innovators! Students design their own business ideas while learning budgeting, branding, marketing, and pitching. This project‑based elective builds confidence, leadership, collaboration, and financial literacy in a fun, supportive environment.

Music

Led by a professional music instructor, this class blends ukulele, rhythm, movement, and song. Students explore music through play, creativity, and collaboration—building confidence and a love for musical expression.

TK / Kindergarten Exploration

Designed for our youngest learners, this class offers hands‑on discovery through art, music, storytelling, sensory play, and motor activities. Emphasis is placed on social‑emotional learning, imaginative play, and early exposure to literacy in a nurturing environment.

World Explorers Workshop

Stories, creativity, and curiosity come together! Students engage with imaginative stories, vocabulary building, and creative writing prompts, paired with hands‑on crafts and projects that make learning come alive through exploration and play.

Our Fall 2026 session invites students to build skills, explore interests, and grow in confidence through thoughtfully designed enrichment classes that support the whole child. This division offers a dynamic mix of hands-on learning, creative expression, movement, and collaboration, giving students meaningful opportunities to learn while connecting with peers.

At the Mission Viejo location, we are offering am or pm half day, full day and single class options:

• Monday (Ages 5-12)
  •  9:00 AM – 10:00 AM Art Lab
    • 10:00 AM- 10:15 Supervised Snack & Transition
  • 10:15 AM – 11:45 AM Theater Workshop
  • 11:45 AM – 12:45 PM Lunch HOUR  [included in PM and Full Day Registration ONLY]
    • 12:15 PM – 12:45 PM SEL/ Outside Play
  • 12:45 PM – 1:45 PM STEAM Challengers

• Extended Care Option ADD on for PM Half Day or Last Class of the day $100 -1:45 PM-2:30 PM  (included in full day registration).

• Friday (Ages 5-12)
  •  9:00 AM – 10:00 AM Music
    • 10:00 AM- 10:15 Supervised Snack & Transition
  • 10:15 AM – 11:45 AM Kulinary Kids
  • 11:45 AM – 12:45 PM Lunch HOUR  [included in PM and Full Day Registration ONLY]
    • 12:15 PM – 12:45 PM SEL/ Outside Play
  • 12:45 PM – 1:45 PM Elective Sampler
    
• Extended Care Option ADD on for PM Half Day or Last Class of the day $100 -1:45 PM-2:30 PM  (included in full day registration).

 Age waivers available upon request

Minimum registration needed: 5 students (Max 14)

Each class is intentionally structured to encourage curiosity, problem-solving, and self-expression while remaining developmentally appropriate and fun. Lessons balance guided instruction with student choice, allowing children to explore new ideas, practice independence, and take pride in their work.

Whether students are returning or joining us for the first time, Fall 2026 offers a welcoming environment where learners can try something new, deepen existing interests, and continue building a strong foundation for lifelong learning.

Course Descriptions

AM Half Day Elective Class – One day a week

A once‑a‑week elective experience designed for creativity, exploration, and connection. Students rotate through engaging, hands‑on electives such as Art Lab, Kulinary Kids cooking, Engineering, STEAM Challenges, Social‑Emotional Learning, and Academic Support. Learning is student‑led and interest‑based, allowing children to follow curiosity while building confidence, collaboration, and core skills in a relaxed, supportive environment. Schedules vary by location, please look at the posted schedule for more details.

PM Half Day Elective Class – One day a week

This once‑a‑week program offers a balanced mix of enrichment and skill‑building through rotating electives such as Theater, Science, Elective Sampler, Social‑Emotional Learning, and Academic Support. Students learn through play, projects, and group experiences that encourage problem‑solving, independence, and positive peer relationships—all within a flexible homeschool‑friendly structure. Schedules vary by location, please look at the posted schedule for more details.

AM Half Day Elective Class – Two days a week

A two‑day‑per‑week elective program offering consistency, community, and creative exploration. Students rotate through engaging, hands‑on electives such as Art Lab, Kulinary Kids cooking, Engineering, STEAM Challenges, Social‑Emotional Learning, and Academic Support. Learning is student‑led and interest‑based, allowing children to follow curiosity while building confidence, collaboration, and core skills in a relaxed, supportive environment. Schedules vary by location, please look at the posted schedule for more details..

PM Half Day Elective Class – Two days a week

A two‑day‑per‑week elective program offering consistency, community, and creative exploration. Students rotate electives such as Theater, Science, Elective Sampler, Social‑Emotional Learning, and Academic Support. Students learn through play, projects, and group experiences that encourage problem‑solving, independence, and positive peer relationships—all within a flexible homeschool‑friendly structure. Schedules vary by location, please look at the posted schedule for more details.

Full Day Elective Class – One Day a week

A full‑day immersive elective experience where students explore a variety of interest‑driven classes throughout the day. Rotating offerings include Comic Book Club, Kulinary Kids cooking, Engineering, Coding & Makerspace, Social‑Emotional Learning, and Academic Support. This program supports deeper engagement, peer collaboration, and self‑direction while maintaining a joyful, hands‑on approach to learning. Schedules vary by location, please look at the posted schedule for more details.

Full Day Elective Class – Two days a week

A two‑day‑per‑week elective program offering consistency, community, and creative exploration. Our most immersive homeschool option, combines hands‑on electives with strong community building. Students explore an evolving mix of Comic Book Club, Kulinary Kids cooking, Engineering, Makerspace, Strategic Math, Social Studies, and enrichment activities. Learning is collaborative, flexible, and student‑driven, supporting both academic growth and social‑emotional development through meaningful experiences. Schedules vary by location, please look at the posted schedule for more details.

Art Lab

A creative studio for curious makers and artists. Students experiment with a wide variety of materials and art styles while learning about artists from different backgrounds and movements. Projects are interest‑driven and may include painting, mixed media, digital design, Cricut machines, and DIY crafting—where imagination leads the way.

Elective Sampler

Can’t choose just one? This class offers a rotating mix of our most popular hands‑on electives including science, sewing, cooking, art, and more. Highly student‑led and interest‑based, learners help shape upcoming lessons and themes—making every session a new adventure.

Extended Care

A relaxed extension of the learning day featuring rotating enrichment activities like crafts, games, STEM challenges, and free play. Extended Care provides a comfortable, engaging space where students unwind, socialize, and continue learning through choice and play.

Kulinary Kids

Young chefs explore the joy of cooking through hands‑on food prep, taste exploration, and kitchen creativity. Students practice basic cooking skills, teamwork, and motor coordination while building confidence and a positive relationship with food.

Music

Led by a professional music instructor, this class blends ukulele, rhythm, movement, and song. Students explore music through play, creativity, and collaboration—building confidence and a love for musical expression.

STEM Challengers

A high‑energy blend of science, engineering, and makerspace fun! Students tackle real‑world design challenges, run experiments, and collaborate to solve problems using creativity and innovation. Each session introduces a new STEM challenge to spark curiosity and resilience.

Theater Workshop

Students explore improvisation, character development, and creative movement while building confidence and teamwork. Through skits, improv games, monologues, and storytelling, participants develop self‑expression, stage presence, and collaboration skills in a supportive environment.

Our Fall 2026 session invites students to build skills, explore interests, and grow in confidence through thoughtfully designed enrichment classes that support the whole child. This division offers a dynamic mix of hands-on learning, creative expression, movement, and collaboration, giving students meaningful opportunities to learn while connecting with peers.

Keeping Fit

Movement, teamwork, and fun come together in this active elective. Students participate in games, fitness challenges, and purposeful play that promote healthy habits, cooperation, and confidence—perfect for kids who love to move and stay active.

• Designed for homeschool families seeking healthy habits and community.
• Tailored to enhance physical fitness, social/emotional awareness, and self-esteem among students. Emphasizes interest-based, student-led learning.
• Offers 13-week sessions
• Offered on Tuesdays and/or Thursdays.  Students may enroll in one day a week (Tuesdays or Thursdays) or both days for the full experience. Keeping Fit utilizes a blend of dynamic warm-ups, engaging activities, group games, and basic sports to foster a community that encourages lifelong fitness and healthy habits. It is an ideal choice for students looking to remain active and build positive health practices. (This is not a skill or competitive sports class)

Lunch Bunch Add-On:  SEL

• Bring your lunch and build community! Through games, challenges, and guided conversations, students strengthen friendship skills, teamwork, and growth mindset while enjoying a relaxed, social environment.

HIGH DEMAND NOTICE: This class has limited seats and is in high demand.

• We accept Charter School Funds.

We’re excited to welcome your family to the YMCA Homeschool Electives & Support Program! Please review the following registration guidelines to ensure a smooth enrollment process:

Payment Options

• Out-of-Pocket Payment:
  Families may register and pay directly online through the links below.
• Charter School Purchase Orders (POs):
  If you are using charter school funds, you may still start your registration below. Your balance will remain on your account until your approved Purchase Order is received.

Important PO Guidelines

• Submission Deadline:
  Approved Purchase Orders must be submitted to [email protected] August 13th.
• Classroom Attendance:
  All POs must be received before your child attends any class sessions.
• Holding Your Spot:
  Your child’s spot will be held, however if we do not receive your PO within that time, your registration will be canceled and the spot will be offered to a student on the waitlist.

Schedule: Fall 2026

• Tuesday
  • 11:15 pm – 12:15 pm Keeping Fit ONLY
  • 12:15 am – 12:45 pm Lunch Bunch ONLY
    • Please note you will need to Add-on lunch making a separate registration
•  Thursday
  • 11:15 pm – 12:15 pm Keeping Fit ONLY
  • 12:15 am – 12:45 pm Lunch Bunch ONLY
    • Please note you will need to Add-on lunch making a separate registration
• Tuesday AND Thursday (Recommended)
  • 11:15 pm – 12:15 pm Keeping Fit ONLY
  • 12:15 am – 12:45 pm Lunch Bunch ONLY
    • Please note you will need to Add-on lunch making a separate registration

Join us for a semester filled with activity, creativity, and fun! Our program is designed to inspire and engage students while providing a supportive and enriching environment.  Classes are First Come, First Served and are expected to fill quickly.

Notes:
The schedule is subject to change at any time.
Any class with fewer than 5 children is at risk of being canceled.
Once a child has attended the class, the class is no longer eligible for a refund.
No Prorating: We do not prorate fees for missed classes or accommodate refunds for last-minute schedule changes. Fees are based off of the calendar year, not the number of meetings per month. Supplies are purchased in bulk and in advance to help keep costs low.

Program Overview

Our Fall 2026 session invites students to build skills, explore interests, and grow in confidence through thoughtfully designed enrichment classes that support the whole child. This division offers a dynamic mix of hands-on learning, creative expression, movement, and collaboration, giving students meaningful opportunities to learn while connecting with peers.

• ALL children MUST be potty Trained.
• Designed for homeschool families seeking enrichment and community.
• With a focus on holistic development, the Kindergarten Exploration Station class introduces foundational skills through engaging and interactive activities. Emphasizes interest-based, student-led learning.
• Offers 13-week sessions
• Offered on Tuesdays ONLY this Fall 2026.
• Small class sizes (minimum 5 students; maximum of 10).
• We accept Charter School Funds.

We’re excited to welcome your family to the YMCA Homeschool Electives & Support Program! Please review the following registration guidelines to ensure a smooth enrollment process:

Payment Options

• Out-of-Pocket Payment:
  Families may register and pay directly online through the links below.
• Charter School Purchase Orders (POs):
  If you are using charter school funds, you may still start your registration below. Your balance will remain on your account until your approved Purchase Order is received.

Schedule: Fall 2025

• Tuesday
  • 01:15 pm – 02:30 pm – 13-week session COST: $650

Join us for a semester filled with learning, creativity, and fun! Our program is designed to inspire and engage students while providing a supportive and enriching environment. Registration opens to the public on December 10th. Classes are First Come, First Served and are expected to fill quickly.

Notes:
The schedule is subject to change at any time.
Any class with fewer than 5 children is at risk of being canceled.
Once a child has attended the class, the class is no longer eligible for a refund.
No Prorating: We do not prorate fees for missed classes or accommodate refunds for last-minute schedule changes. Fees are based off of the calendar year, not the number of meetings per month. Supplies are purchased in bulk and in advance to help keep costs low.