Tween T.A.S. - 5-16 year olds
REFUND POLICY
Your satisfaction is important to us. Due to program costs, including instructors, and supplies, and to help maintain our minimum numbers, we ask for your cooperation when requesting a refund or credit. Our policy is to provide a full refund or credit, your choice, to anyone who cancels by the deadline. Anything after the deadline, will not receive a refund/credit unless your spot can be filled.
Take A Step (T.A.S.)
Activities:
We offer a variety of programs for youth ages
0 to 16 years of age.
Let your child enjoy their free time at the HRC or find a great family activity. For easier access you will find activities listed below by age group of your child:
Baby T.A.S. - 0 - 2 year olds & Families
Tiny T.A.S. - 2 - 5 year olds & Families
Tween T.A.S. - 5 - 16 year olds & Families
which will, in turn, build confidence and create a solid foundation for years to come. Each participant will receive a bow and a t-shirt uniform top as part of the entry fee.
AUSTRALIAN FREESTYLE MARTIAL ARTS SELF-DEFENSE COURSE
Martial arts are a great way for kids to build confidence, focus, and physical fitness—while having fun! This dynamic course introduces students to real-world self-defense techniques while helping them develop coordination, discipline, and resilience.
Classes are split into two levels:
Beginner students will focus on foundational skills in a supportive, high-energy environment.
Intermediate students will expand on those basics with more advanced techniques and conditioning.
No two classes are the same, keeping students engaged and motivated!
Instructor: Stuart Bott, Probationary 4th-degree Black Belt and Level 5 Muay Thai Trainer, has over 30 years of experience and currently teaches PE in USD 489.
Entry Deadline: Session 1: April 22
Session 2: May 20
Session 3: June 17
Session 4: July 15
Session 5: July 29
Entry Fee: $80.00
Held on:
Session 1:
Tues. & Thurs. – April 28 - May 21
Session 2:
Tues. & Thurs. - May 26- June 18
Session 3:
Tues. & Thurs. - June 23 – July 16
Session 4:
Tues & Thurs. - July 21 – July 30
Session 5:
Tues & Thurs. – August 4 - 27
Times/Level:
Sessions 1 & 5:
Beginner - 4:00 - 4:45 p.m.
Intermediate - 4:45 - 5:30 p.m.
Sessions 2, 3, 4:
Beginner - 2:00 - 2:45 p.m.
Intermediate - 3:00 - 3:45 p.m.
Location: Hays Rec. Gym #3
Limitations: Min. 5 Max. 20
Instructor: Stuart Bott
BRAZILIZN JIU JITSU
This fun and active class introduces kids to the basics of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu through games, movement, and simple techniques. Kids will learn how to move their bodies, fall safely, work with partners, and practice basic self-defense skills in a positive and supportive environment. Classes focus on building confidence, coordination, respect, and having fun — no experience needed!
Entry Deadline: April 22
Entry Fee: $40.00
Held on: Thursday’s - April 23 – May 21
Times: 5:45 – 6:30 p.m.
Ages: 5 - 16
Location: Aikido of Northwest Kansas
200 E 8th Street, Suite 1
Limitations: Min. 4 Max. 8
Instructor: Matthew Chun, Chris Guzman
Organization: Northwest Kansas
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
BEGINNING KNITTING
Dive into the cozy world of knitting with our beginner-friendly workshop! Whether you’re picking up needles for the first time or just need a refresher, this program is your gateway to creating your first masterpiece. Let’s unravel the basics together and turn those yarns into something uniquely yours! You will need to bring: Size 8 knitting needles and one skein of yarn to class.
Entry Deadline: May 6
Entry Fee: $25.00
Held on: Wednesdays – May 13 & 20
Time: 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.
Ages: 10 & older
Location: Dale Allenbaugh
Conference Room
Limitations: Min. 3 Max. 6
ADULT & FAMILY AIKIDO CLASSES
Our martial arts classes focus on personal growth while letting you train at your own pace and ability, no matter your age. Families and individuals—from kids to adults in their 60s and 70s—learn skills together, whether practicing techniques or simply stretching. Each class ends with calming breathwork and relaxation, so you leave feeling better than when you arrived.
Entry Deadline: May 20
Entry Fee: $30.00
Held on: Tuesdays – May 26 – June 30
Times: 5:45 – 7:15 p.m.
Ages: 6 - 99
Location: Aikido of Northwest Kansas
208 E 8th Street, Suite 1
Limitations: Min. 1 Max. 16
Instructor: Brandon Nimz
BABYSITTERS 101
Are you looking for a job that involves kids? Do you want to babysit but don’t know how to get started? This course gives participants the knowledge, skills, and confidence to care for infants through school-aged children. Topics include safety issues, preventing injuries, getting a job, daily planning activities, and scheduling snack time. Hands-on with pretend babies. Each participant will receive a handbook, a snack, and other resources to get them started. CPR is not included in this course.
Entry Deadline: May 20
Entry Fee: $20.00
Held on: Thursday, May 28
Times: 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Ages: 11 - 15
Location: Leisure Center
Limitations: Min. 5 Max. 20
LEARN TO PLAY POKÉMON
Come out and learn to play Pokémon the trading card game with other fans and local players. Adults and parents are encouraged to learn to play together to allow for more fun play back home!
Entry Deadline: May 20
Entry Fee: $20.00
Held on: Sunday’s – May 24 – June 7
Times: 6:30 p.m.
Ages: 10 & older
Location: The Gamers Guild
200 E 8th Street, Suite 1
Instructor: Gamers Guild Staff
under the supervision of Brandon Nimz
AERIAL YOGA 4 TWEENS
Fly with us! Tween aerial yoga is designed to encourage your child’s quest for physical challenge! Aerial Yoga promotes better balance, confidence, strength, and courage; it also trains the body and mind not to be afraid of trying new things. In class, your yogis will be introduced to the aerial hammocks and each week will build on what they learned the prior week. They will have time to explore, create, and mindfully play in the hammocks, both structured and independently.
CLOTHING - PLEASE WEAR A T-SHIRT AND LONG PANTS WITH NO ZIPPERS OR METAL PIECES
Entry Deadline: May 27
Entry Fee: $20.00
Held on: Tuesdays - June 2 - 23
Time: Session 1: 2:00 – 2:30 p.m.
Session 2: 2:30 - 3:00 p.m.
Session 3: 3:00 – 3:30 p.m.
Ages: 8 - 12
Location: Fitness Center Studio 1
Limitations: Min. 3 Max. 5
DUNGEONS & DRAGONS CAMPAIGN
Come out and play a Dungeons and Dragons campaign with an experienced DM guiding you over the course of 5 sessions! No prior experience needed to play.
Entry Deadline: May 27
Entry Fee: $45.00
Held on: Saturdays – May 30 – June 27
Times: 5:30 p.m.
Ages: 10 & older
Location: The Gamers Guild
200 E 8th Street, Suite 1
Limitations: Min. 1 Max. 8
Instructor: Gamers Guild Staff
under the supervision of Brandon Nimz
INTRO TO CHEER AND DANCE
This is a class about learning the basics of cheer and dance. We will be focusing on the starting techniques, jumps, and most of all FUN!
Entry Deadline: Session 1: May 27
Session 2: July 8
Entry Fee: $15.00
Held on: Session 1:
Tues. - Thurs. – June 2 – 18
Session 2:
Tues. - Thurs. – July 14 - 30
Times 9:15 – 10:00 a.m.
Age: 3 - 6
Location: Fitness Center Studio 1
Limitations: Min. 5 Max. 15
Instructor: Zerelda Fox
LEARN TO PLAY WARHAMMER 40K
Come out and learn to play a miniature war-game set in the future fantasy world of Warhammer 40K. No armies or models needed as you will borrow units from The Gamers Guild and local players.
Entry Deadline: May 27
Entry Fee: $20.00
Held on: Friday’s - June 5, 19 & July 3
Times: 7:00 p.m.
Ages: 10 & older
Location: The Gamers, Guild
200 E 8th Street Suite 1
Instructor: Gamers Guild Staff
MISSION IN MOTION: ADVENTURE CHALLEGE
Each week focuses on a different mission that will develop coordination, teamwork, strength, and endurance while feeling like a fun adventure. Let the fun begin using cones, mats, tunnels and so much more.
Entry Deadline: May 27
Entry Fee: $10.00
Held on: Thursdays - June 4 – 25
Time: 11:15 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Ages: 5 - 11
Location: Leisure Center
Limitations: Min. 5 Max. 24
PEDAL, PARK, & PICNIC
Join us at the park where we will have an obstacle course set up for your bikes to go through, or let the kids come to have fun playing on the equipment. Dig in the sand with sand toys or throw some hoops in the goals. Pack your picnic lunch and toss out your blanket to see how much grass we can cover. Enjoy the first weekend of summer with Hays Recreation in the park.
Entry Deadline: May 27
Entry Fee: $1.00
Held on: Saturday, June 6
Times/Ages: 10:00 - 11:30 a.m.
Ages: All ages
Location: Auble-Bickle Optimist Park
30th & Sherman Ave.
Limitations: Min. 5 Max. 25
PUP CRAWL (DAY OF PLAY FOR PUPS AND HUMANS)
Start the day with a doggy warm-up and stretch followed by an agility zone, dog photo booth, doggy ice-cream station, and other fun activities. Don’t miss out on the furry, fun-filled time with your pet. Dogs must be on a leash when around other dogs and owners.
Entry Deadline: May 27
Entry Fee: $3.00 per dog
Held on: Saturday, May 30
Times: 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.
Ages: All Ages
(10 & under must be
with an adult 16 & older)
Location: Frontier Park
- East Highway 183 bypass East of Main
Limitations: Min. 10 Max. 25
MORNING TENNIS
Come enjoy a morning of tennis. This is a relaxed environment for students to learn the basic skills of the game as well as practice the skills they already possess. Players must supply their own tennis racket and water bottle. Cancellations may occur due to inclement weather or the instructor’s prior commitments.
Entry Deadline: May 27
Entry Fee: $25.00
Held on: Monday & Wednesday -
June 1 - 24
Times: 9:00 – 10:00 a.m.
Ages: 8 – 10
Location: TBA
Limitations: Min. 3 Max. 15
Instructor: Mya Ploutz
YOUTH & ADULT KATANA & STAFF
In this class, we will cover the basics of using a wooden katana (bokken) and also a wooden jo staff. We will do strikes, blocks, movements, patterned movements (kata), attack and defense exercises, and if we get far enough some disarmament/throwing. In addition, we will cover some cultural and language concepts. Any fitness level is welcome.
Entry Deadline: May 27
Entry Fee: $30.00
Held on: Mondays - June 1 – 29
Times: 6:15 – 7:15 p.m.
Ages: 10 & older
Location: Aikido of Northwest Kansas
208 E 8th Street, Suite 1
Limitations: Min. 1 Max. 8
Instructor: Brandon Nimz
SCHOOLS OUT
Come on out for a day of fun. Each day we have a full schedule of games, crafts, cooking, bowling, mini-golf, area parks, and a trip to Hays Aquatic Park. Space is limited so sign up fast online or in the office to reserve your spot.
Entry Deadline: Wed. before each session
Entry Fee: $10.00 per session
Held on: Session 1: Wednesday, June 3
Session 2: Wednesday, June 10
Session 3: Wednesday, June 17
Session 4: Wednesday, June 24
Session 5: Wednesday, July 1
Session 6: Wednesday, July 8
Session 7: Wednesday, July 15
Session 8: Wednesday, July 22
Session 9: Wednesday, July 29
Times: 1:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Ages: 6 - 10
Location: Leisure Center
Limitation: Min. 10 Max. 30
SUMMERTIME ADVENTURE
Kids, start your summer adventure with us at the HRC. Meet us in the morning for some sports, games, and other activities in the gym. We will load the bus and head out to an area park for some outdoor games and activities. Before we head back to HRC for pick up, we will stop at the ARC park to cool down in the water. Snacks and drinks will be provided for the morning activity. Bring your running shoes, swimsuit, and towel. Pick-up will be at the Hays Recreation Center!
Entry Deadline: Wed. before each session
Entry Fee: $10.00 per session
Held on: Session 1: Tuesday, June 9
Session 2: Tuesday, June 16
Session 3: Tuesday, June 23
Session 4: Tuesday, June 30
Times: 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Ages: 7 – 12
Location: Leisure Center
Limitations: Min. 6 Max. 20
COOK, CREATE, & WHARE
Join us for a fun and interactive Cook, Create, & Share experience inspired by The Hungry Caterpillar! Children will enjoy a special story time, create a tasty snack, and make their very own caterpillar craft. Each child will also receive a t-shirt and a take-home snack to continue the fun at home. Through hands-on activities and group time, kids will learn about creativity, kindness, and sharing—all while having a great time! It will be a colorful, joyful experience filled with learning, laughter, and valuable life lessons.
Entry Deadline: Session 1: June 3
Session 2: July 1
Entry Fee: $12.00
Held on: Session 1: Tuesday, June 16
Session 2: Thursday, July 16
Time: Session 1 & 2: 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Session 2: 2:00 – 3:00 p.m.
Ages: 5 - 10
Limitation: Min. 8 Max 18
Instructors: Women Who Lead
Women Who Feed
KIDS SCIENCE DAY
Every kid likes to experiment, but no parent wants a mess at home. Come to our 4 stations to learn about the world of science. Beware that some stations can be messy, and not all experiments will work.
Entry Deadline: Session 1: June 3
Session 2: June 10
Session 3: July 15
Entry Fee: $8.00 per class
Held on: Session 1: Tuesday, June 9
Session 2: Tuesday, June 16
Session 3: Tuesday, July 21
Times: 1:00 – 1:45 p.m.
Ages: 6 – 12
Location: Leisure Center
Limitation: Min. 5 Max. 20
KNITTING
Learn the basic stitches of knitting during this class, and how to make a dishcloth. You will need to bring: Size 8 knitting needles, and one skein of yarn to class.
Entry Deadline: June 3
Entry Fee: $25.00
Held on: Tuesdays – June 9 & 16
Times: 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.
Ages: 16 & older
Location: Dale Allenbaugh
Conference Room
Limitations: Min. 3 Max. 6
Instructor: Deanna Newberry
WARRIOR STRENGTH CARDIO COUNTDOWN FOR KIDS
In six theme-based sections, this 30-minute Cardio class is all about the camaraderie born from teamwork, improving posture through body awareness, developing strength and coordination, and boosting self-confidence! Cardio Countdown for Kids emphasizes the FUN in functional fitness.
Entry Deadline: June 3
Entry Fee: $65.00
Held on: Wednesdays - June 10 – July 15
Time: 10:00 – 10:30 a.m.
Ages: 5 - 14
Location: Fitness Center Studio 1
Limitations: Min. 5 Max. 15
Instructor: Lisa Schreck
SCOOP’S & SMILES W/DAD
Dad’s come and enjoy a flight of ice cream flavor. The kids will have you blindfolded and you get to taste and guess the flavor. The kids will enjoy making you a special gift and enjoy a bowl of ice-cream with you.
Entry Deadline: June 10
Entry Fee: $7.00
Held on: Tuesday, June 16
Times: 5:30 - 6:15 p.m.
Ages: 2 – 10
Location: Leisure Center
Limitation: Min. 5 Max. 24
SIDEWALK SURFERS SKATEBOARD CAMP
Ignite the thrill of summer by signing up for the Sidewalk Surfers Skateboarding Camp! Whether you’re brand new to skating or already landing a few tricks, this camp is built for beginner and intermediate riders who want to level up their skills in a supportive, high-energy environment. Skaters will focus on core techniques, balance, park awareness, and trick progression while building confidence both on and off the board. Led by an experienced skateboarder with a background in education, participants will receive structured instruction, personalized feedback, and plenty of time to practice and push themselves safely. Beyond the ramps and rails, skaters will connect with peers who share their passion and develop friendships that last long after summer ends. Don’t miss the chance to make this summer one to remember—sign up now and let’s skate!
*Personal boards are encouraged All participants will need to bring their own helmet.
Entry Deadline: June 10
Entry Fee: $30.00
Held on: Tues. & Thurs. - June 16 - July 16
Times: Session 1: 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.
Session 2: 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Ages: Session 1: 8 - 11
Session 2: 12 - 14
Location: Aubel-Bickle Park
- 30th & Sherman Avenue
Limitation: Session 1: Min. 4 Max. 8
Session 2: Min. 4 Max. 12
YOUTH GOLF LESSONS
It’s that time of year to get your son or daughter registered for golf lessons with instructor Lily Garrison. Participants will practice and work on their skills. You will have to bring your own golf clubs.
Entry Deadline: June 10
Entry Fee: $ 40.00
Held on: June 15 - 18
Time: 8:30 - 9:30 a.m.
Ages: 8 - 12
Location: Precision Valley
1500 West 27th Street
Limitations: Min. 5 Max. 10
Instructor: Lily Garrison
BOWLING 4 BEGINNERS
Do you want your child to learn a great lifetime sport? Have they tried bowling? During this beginners’ class, participants will learn how to find the right ball, learn the correct approach and follow through, how to keep score, and much more. On the last day of class, the participants will have a chance to demonstrate their skills in a tournament.
Entry Deadline: July 1
Entry Fee: $25.00
Held on: Tuesday - Friday - July 7 - 10
Times: 1:00 – 2:00 p.m.
Ages: 8 – 14
Location: Centennial Lanes - 2400 Vine
Limitations: Min. 15 Max. 24
Instructor: Dallas Herreman
& Centennial Lanes Staff
FUN & FITNESS
Kids let’s get excited about fitness with this program moving you through stations with balance beams, ropes, boxes, bands, and obstacle courses. Let’s end with a fun game that makes you move, laugh, and get strong.
Entry Deadline: July 1
Entry Fee: $10.00
Held on: Thursdays - July 9 – 30
Times: 11:00 – 11:45 a.m.
Ages: 5 - 11
Location: Hays Rec Gym #3
Limitations: Min. 5 Max. 25
GLOW GIRLS DAY CAMP
Girls, join me for a day of fun. The afternoon will be set up with games, crafts, music, and building friendships. Wear your neon colors for our black light art, glow bracelets, and dance. Don’t be left out, join the fun!
Entry Deadline: July 1
Entry Fee: $10.00
Held on: Tuesday, July 7
Times: 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Ages: 6 - 10
Location: Leisure Center
Limitations: Min. 5 Max. 24
HAND EMBROIDERY
Explore the beauty and versatility of hand needlework. Learn a variety of techniques and be exposed to a unique skill. You will have the opportunity to create your work of art! You will need to bring a 4-inch embroidery hoop to class, but all other supplies will be provided.
Entry Deadline: July 1
Entry Fee: $35.00
Held on: Tuesdays - July 7 & 14
Times: 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.
Ages: 10 & older
Location: Dale Allenbaugh
Conference Room
Limitations: Min. 3 Max. 6
Instructor: Deanna Newberry
BOYS HERO QUEST DAY CAMP
Come on boys let’s become heroes for the day without the girls. The afternoon will be built around obstacle style challenges, create a hero badge, fill up on snacks, games in the gym, and so much more. This is your day to become the HERO!
Entry Deadline: July 8
Entry Fee: $10.00
Held on: Tuesday, July 14
Times: 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Ages: 6 - 10
Location: Leisure Center
Limitations: Min. 5 Max. 24
MCKIDS DAY AT LARKS PARK
Spend a McGreat day at Larks Park! The day will start with a game of McKid Ball with Lark’s players coaching and pitching to each team. After McKid Ball, enjoy lunch, provided by McDonald’s of Hays. Larks players will also be on hand for autographs. Participants will return to Larks Park that evening to run on the field for the starting lineup with the Larks, throw out the first pitch, and watch the Larks take on the opposing team. McDonald’s of Hays will sponsor the Larks game, providing free admission for the general public. McKids Day at Larks Park is sponsored by McDonald’s of Hays, along with support from the Larks Baseball Team and the HRC. Every child will receive a t-shirt if signed up by July 2. The Larks players can sign the shirts at the end of the morning.
Entry Deadline: July 8
Entry Fee: FREE
Held on: Saturday, July 11
Time: McKid Ball: 10:00 a.m.
Larks Game: 7:00 p.m.
Ages: 7 – 10
Location: Larks Park – 4th & Oak
Limitations: Min. 10 Max. 24
ADVANCED KNITTING
Learn how to read patterns and make slippers. You will need to bring to class knitting needles (Size 8 Needles) and 4 ounces of yarn. Pre-requisite for the course you must have taken our entry-level knitting class.
Entry Deadline: August 5
Entry Fee: $25.00
Held on: Tuesdays – August 11 & 18
Times: 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.
Ages: 10 & older
Location: Dale Allenbaugh
Conference Room
Limitations: Min. 3 Max. 6
Instructor: Deanna Newberry
KANSAS HUNTER EDUCATION CLASS – FALL SESSION
Kansas Hunter Education teaches new hunters to be ethical, safe, and knowledgeable. The course consists of subjects covering hunter responsibility, ethics, fair chase, history of firearms, firearms basics, ammunition, basic gun safety, field safety, bow hunting, conservation, wildlife management, wildlife of Kansas, outdoor emergencies, Kansas hunting regulations, and boating safety for hunters. The traditional hunter education course is organized and conducted by volunteer instructors. Students MUST turn 11 by the last day of class to receive their Hunter Education Card. All parents are welcome to attend classes with their children.
Students are REQUIRED to attend both days.
Entry Deadline: August 5
Entry Fee: $5.00 per person
Held on: Thurs. AND Sat. – August 7 & 9
Times: Thursday – 6:00 - 9:00 p.m.
AND Saturday - 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Ages: 11 older as of the last day of class
Location: Leisure Center
Limitations: Min. 10 Max. 25
29TH ANNUAL YOUTH OUTDOOR FESTIVAL
Area conservation groups and businesses have teamed together to offer a FREE day of target shooting for youth. All target shooting materials and equipment are supplied for the event which offers trap shooting, skeet shooting, archery, air rifle / BB gun, muzzleloader, small-bore rifle, computerized target shooting, paintball target shooting, BASS Casting Kids, and fur harvesting demonstrations.
This is an excellent opportunity to introduce youth to the world of shooting sports, hunting, fishing, and fur harvesting. Hunter Education Certification is not required, but participants must be accompanied by an adult. Persons specializing in their field of shooting will closely supervise youth at each station. Registration for the event will be completed on-site and participants can enjoy a free lunch.
Entry Fee: FREE
Held on: Saturday, August 15
Times: 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
- come and go
Ages: 5 - 17 w/an adult
Location: Hays City Sportsman’s Club
1/4 mile north of I-70, Exit 157
TATTING
Get registered today and learn the lost art of Tatting. You will learn the basics of how to make rings, joining, and chains. You will learn how to make a snowflake and edging. As part of the fee, each participant will receive a shuttle. You will need to bring a size 10 thread.
Entry Deadline: September 2
Entry Fee: $35.00
Held on: Tuesdays – September 8 & 15
Time: 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.
Ages: 10 & older
Location: Dale Allenbaugh
Conference Room
Limitations: Min. 3 Max. 6
Instructor: Deanna Newberry