Winter/Spring 2025
1st/2nd Course Descriptions
9:00-11:00 Tuesdays & Thursdays - Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Two-Day ELA & Math Enrichment Class
Tuesdays and Thursdays: 9:00-11:00
13 Weeks:
Tuition: $1,560
Note: Tuition Payments Are As Follows: Jan $560 / Feb $340 / March $330/ April $330
Course Overview
This class is the continuation of the first semester first and second grade enrichment class where students have the opportunity to learn in a warm and engaging classroom environment. New students are welcome to join! This two-day a week class continues to support the concepts being taught in math and in English language arts. There will be plenty of opportunities to have fun and build friendships. Students participate in activities with partners, small groups, and the entire class, practicing reading, writing, and math skills.
Through poetry and memorization, fun stories and reader’s theaters, copy-work, games and crafts, your student will practice language arts skills such as penmanship, phonics, grammar, and reading skills.
Like in the fall, this winter and spring session has a dedicated time to practice core math concepts and build problem solving and critical thinking skills. Using games and hands-on activities as well as through written work, students strengthen their foundation in essential math skills, building confidence and a love of math. Math will also be integrated into our literature-based activities. Jump in and join us for a fun-filled semester of growth, positive change, and adventure!
Some Math Concepts Covered:
Outside Classwork: Light - Finish assignments started in class and weekly homework practice packets
Instructor: Karina Penkethman
Tuesdays and Thursdays: 9:00-11:00
13 Weeks:
- Tuesdays: January 21, 28 February 4, 11, 18, 25 March 18, 25 April 1, 8, 22, 29 May 6
- Thursdays: January 23, 30 February 6, 13, 20, 27 March 20, 27 April 3, 10, 24 May 1, 8
- (No Class March 4, 6, 11, 13 April 15, 17)
Tuition: $1,560
Note: Tuition Payments Are As Follows: Jan $560 / Feb $340 / March $330/ April $330
Course Overview
This class is the continuation of the first semester first and second grade enrichment class where students have the opportunity to learn in a warm and engaging classroom environment. New students are welcome to join! This two-day a week class continues to support the concepts being taught in math and in English language arts. There will be plenty of opportunities to have fun and build friendships. Students participate in activities with partners, small groups, and the entire class, practicing reading, writing, and math skills.
Through poetry and memorization, fun stories and reader’s theaters, copy-work, games and crafts, your student will practice language arts skills such as penmanship, phonics, grammar, and reading skills.
Like in the fall, this winter and spring session has a dedicated time to practice core math concepts and build problem solving and critical thinking skills. Using games and hands-on activities as well as through written work, students strengthen their foundation in essential math skills, building confidence and a love of math. Math will also be integrated into our literature-based activities. Jump in and join us for a fun-filled semester of growth, positive change, and adventure!
Some Math Concepts Covered:
- addition and subtraction facts
- odd and even
- core geometry concepts
- measurement
- fractions
- place value
- skip counting
- patterns
- ordinal words
Outside Classwork: Light - Finish assignments started in class and weekly homework practice packets
Instructor: Karina Penkethman
11:15-12:15 - Tuesdays - Mission Viejo Family YMCA
NEW! Young Explorers: Introduction to Ancient Civilizations
Tuesdays: 11:15-12:15
6 weeks: Jan 21, 28 February 4, 11, 18, 25
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $245
Course Overview
Welcome, young explorers! In this fascinating course, we’ll embark on a journey through time to explore the ancient civilizations that shaped our world. From mysterious pyramids to bustling marketplaces, let’s uncover the wonders of the past.
Course Highlights:
Mesopotamia: Cradle of Civilization
Outside Classwork: Complete at home what isn’t finished in class
Instructor: Karina Penkethman
Tuesdays: 11:15-12:15
6 weeks: Jan 21, 28 February 4, 11, 18, 25
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $245
Course Overview
Welcome, young explorers! In this fascinating course, we’ll embark on a journey through time to explore the ancient civilizations that shaped our world. From mysterious pyramids to bustling marketplaces, let’s uncover the wonders of the past.
Course Highlights:
Mesopotamia: Cradle of Civilization
- Unearth the secrets of Sumerians, Babylonians, and Assyrians.
- Learn about cuneiform writing and ziggurats.
- Step into the world of pyramids, hieroglyphics, and the mighty Nile River.
- Meet legendary pharaohs like King Tutankhamun.
- Follow the ancient trade routes and discover Chinese inventions.
- Marvel at the Great Wall and the Terracotta Army.
- Meet Zeus, Athena, and Hercules
Outside Classwork: Complete at home what isn’t finished in class
Instructor: Karina Penkethman
NEW! World Cultures Through Art
Tuesdays: 11:15-12:15
7 weeks: March 18, 25 April 1, 8, 22, 29 May 6
No Class: April 15
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $260
Course Overview
Let’s dive into the heart of creativity. While collaborating with fellow learners on cross-cultural art projects, students expand their horizons beyond borders. Through the World Cultures Through Art course, students journey across continents, exploring ancient traditions and contemporary masterpieces while making their own artistic creations.
Outside Classwork: complete what is not finished in class
Instructor: Karina Penkethman
Tuesdays: 11:15-12:15
7 weeks: March 18, 25 April 1, 8, 22, 29 May 6
No Class: April 15
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $260
Course Overview
Let’s dive into the heart of creativity. While collaborating with fellow learners on cross-cultural art projects, students expand their horizons beyond borders. Through the World Cultures Through Art course, students journey across continents, exploring ancient traditions and contemporary masterpieces while making their own artistic creations.
Outside Classwork: complete what is not finished in class
Instructor: Karina Penkethman
Keeping Fit! Elementary PE
Tuesdays: 11:15-12:15
13 weeks: January 21, 28 February 4, 11, 18, 25 March 18, 25 April 1, 8, 22, 29. May 6
(No Class: March 4, 11 and April 15)
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $273
Course Overview
Warm-Ups, activities, group games, and group sports to help prepare students for a life of physical fitness, fitness testing, improved social/emotional awareness, and self-esteem. Activities and sports can be adjusted depending on age and skill level of students. Our goal is to keep youth active and excited about lifelong skills and healthy habits while having fun! Youth develop friendships, cooperation, and character values. Healthy team competition providing a context for practicing humility, overcoming obstacles, strategic thinking, and being part of a community!
Note: Contact the Mission Viejo Family YMCA to Enroll. Charter School Funds Accepted
Instructor: Certified YMCA Instructor
Tuesdays: 11:15-12:15
13 weeks: January 21, 28 February 4, 11, 18, 25 March 18, 25 April 1, 8, 22, 29. May 6
(No Class: March 4, 11 and April 15)
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $273
Course Overview
Warm-Ups, activities, group games, and group sports to help prepare students for a life of physical fitness, fitness testing, improved social/emotional awareness, and self-esteem. Activities and sports can be adjusted depending on age and skill level of students. Our goal is to keep youth active and excited about lifelong skills and healthy habits while having fun! Youth develop friendships, cooperation, and character values. Healthy team competition providing a context for practicing humility, overcoming obstacles, strategic thinking, and being part of a community!
Note: Contact the Mission Viejo Family YMCA to Enroll. Charter School Funds Accepted
Instructor: Certified YMCA Instructor
12:15-12:45 Tuesdays - Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Lunch Bunch
Tuesdays: 12:15-12:45
13 weeks: January 21, 28 February 4, 11, 18, 25 March 18, 25 April 1, 8, 22, 29. May 6
(No Class: March 4, 11 and April 15)
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $156
Course Overview
Time for fun! This is a supervised period where students eat their lunches in between classes. This community-building environment is great for giving students some interaction between classes.
Note: Contact the Mission Viejo Family YMCA to Enroll. Charter School Funds Accepted
Instructor: Certified YMCA Instructor
Tuesdays: 12:15-12:45
13 weeks: January 21, 28 February 4, 11, 18, 25 March 18, 25 April 1, 8, 22, 29. May 6
(No Class: March 4, 11 and April 15)
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $156
Course Overview
Time for fun! This is a supervised period where students eat their lunches in between classes. This community-building environment is great for giving students some interaction between classes.
Note: Contact the Mission Viejo Family YMCA to Enroll. Charter School Funds Accepted
Instructor: Certified YMCA Instructor
12:45-1:45 Tuesdays - Mission Viejo Family YMCA
NEW! Grammar Fundamentals
Tuesdays: 12:45-1:45
6 weeks: Jan 21, 28 February 4, 11, 18, 25
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $245
Course Overview
From sentence structures to descriptive tools, this grammar course sets the groundwork for confident communication by exploring the essential elements of language. Grammar is important in lower elementary education because it lays the groundwork for language development, reading comprehension, writing proficiency, and self-expression. By learning grammar concepts early on, students build a strong foundation that they can build upon in later years.
Course Highlights:
Instructor: Karina Penkethman
Tuesdays: 12:45-1:45
6 weeks: Jan 21, 28 February 4, 11, 18, 25
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $245
Course Overview
From sentence structures to descriptive tools, this grammar course sets the groundwork for confident communication by exploring the essential elements of language. Grammar is important in lower elementary education because it lays the groundwork for language development, reading comprehension, writing proficiency, and self-expression. By learning grammar concepts early on, students build a strong foundation that they can build upon in later years.
Course Highlights:
- Discover how proper word order creates meaningful strings of language.
- Learn how nouns name the world, while adjectives paint it with vivid descriptions.
- Use verbs in action to bring sentences to life
- Understand how adverbs add flair.
- Participate in fun engaging activities and exercises.
Instructor: Karina Penkethman
NEW! Reader's Theater Fun: Building Reading Confidence
Tuesdays: 12:45-1:45
7 weeks: March 18, 25 April 1, 8, 22, 29 May 6
No Class: April 15
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $260
Course Overview
Reader's Theatre offers a valuable opportunity for children to improve their reading skills, boost confidence, develop social and collaborative skills, and foster creativity in a fun and supportive environment. Students look deep into the stories in order to convey the characters' emotions and intentions effectively. This helps improve comprehension skills as children analyze the text and interpret its meaning.
Course Highlights:
Outside Classwork: Light - practice reading
Instructor: Karina Penkethman
Tuesdays: 12:45-1:45
7 weeks: March 18, 25 April 1, 8, 22, 29 May 6
No Class: April 15
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $260
Course Overview
Reader's Theatre offers a valuable opportunity for children to improve their reading skills, boost confidence, develop social and collaborative skills, and foster creativity in a fun and supportive environment. Students look deep into the stories in order to convey the characters' emotions and intentions effectively. This helps improve comprehension skills as children analyze the text and interpret its meaning.
Course Highlights:
- Improves Reading Fluency: By repeated practicing reading aloud in a supportive environment, children become more confident and proficient readers.
- Boosts Confidence: As students become more comfortable reading aloud and performing in front of others, their confidence grows both academically and socially.
- Encourages Collaboration: Children learn to work together to bring the script to life, practicing listening skills, cooperation, and compromise.
- Cultivates Social Skills: Participating in Reader's Theatre involves interacting with peers in a supportive and collaborative environment. Children learn to take turns, listen actively, give and receive feedback, and respect each other's contributions, fostering important social skills.
Outside Classwork: Light - practice reading
Instructor: Karina Penkethman
11:15-12:15 Thursdays - Mission Viejo Family YMCA
NEW! Science: Cycles in Nature
Thursdays: 11:15-12:15
6 weeks: January 23, 30 February 6, 13, 20, 27
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $245
Course Overview
This course fosters curiosity about the natural world and develops an appreciation for the interconnected cycles on Earth. Young learners will learn about the intricate patterns that sustain life on our planet. From seasonal changes to the water cycle, we’ll examine the wonders of nature together. Let’s celebrate the cycles that shape our world!
Course Highlights:
Seasonal Cycles:
Outside Classwork: Complete at home what isn’t finished in class
Instructor: Karina Penkethman
Thursdays: 11:15-12:15
6 weeks: January 23, 30 February 6, 13, 20, 27
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $245
Course Overview
This course fosters curiosity about the natural world and develops an appreciation for the interconnected cycles on Earth. Young learners will learn about the intricate patterns that sustain life on our planet. From seasonal changes to the water cycle, we’ll examine the wonders of nature together. Let’s celebrate the cycles that shape our world!
Course Highlights:
Seasonal Cycles:
- Discover how nature transitions through the seasons.
- Observe how plants and animals adapt during spring, summer, fall, and winter.
- Uncover the life cycle of flowering plants.
- Learn about pollination, seed dispersal, and the vital role of animals.
- Dive into the fascinating journeys of animals.
- Explore metamorphosis, hibernation, and growth stages.
- Follow water’s journey—from clouds to rivers and back.
Outside Classwork: Complete at home what isn’t finished in class
Instructor: Karina Penkethman
NEW! Science: A Bug's Life
Thursdays: 11:15-12:15
7 weeks: March 20, 27 April 3, 10, 24 May 1, 8
No Class: April 17
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $260
Course Overview
Welcome to the enchanting world of A Bug’s Life! In this 7-week course, young explorers will shrink down to the size of insects and embark on curious and fascinating adventures. From tiny ants to fluttering butterflies, we’ll uncover the secrets of the miniature universe.
Course Highlights:
Bug Anatomy and Behavior
Outside Classwork: Students will create their own insect and insect habitat using what they have learned.
Instructor: Karina Penkethman
Thursdays: 11:15-12:15
7 weeks: March 20, 27 April 3, 10, 24 May 1, 8
No Class: April 17
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $260
Course Overview
Welcome to the enchanting world of A Bug’s Life! In this 7-week course, young explorers will shrink down to the size of insects and embark on curious and fascinating adventures. From tiny ants to fluttering butterflies, we’ll uncover the secrets of the miniature universe.
Course Highlights:
Bug Anatomy and Behavior
- Examine the intricate body structures of ants, beetles, and spiders.
- Observe how bugs move, communicate, and survive in their microcosm.
- Peek into the hidden world of bug burrows, nests, and webs.
- Explore the diversity of bug habitats—from leafy forests to sandy deserts.
- Discover the extraordinary abilities of bugs.
- Learn about camouflage, mimicry, and incredible feats like silk-spinning.
- Study metamorphosis—from egg to larva to pupa to adult.
Outside Classwork: Students will create their own insect and insect habitat using what they have learned.
Instructor: Karina Penkethman
Keeping Fit! Elementary PE
Thursdays: 11:15-12:15
13 weeks: January 23, 30 February 6, 13, 20, 27 March 20, 27 April 3, 10, 24 May 1, 8
(No Class: March 6, 13 April 17)
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $273
Course Overview
Warm-Ups, activities, group games, and group sports to help prepare students for a life of physical fitness, fitness testing, improved social/emotional awareness, and self-esteem. Activities and sports can be adjusted depending on age and skill level of students.
Our goal is to keep youth active and excited about lifelong skills and healthy habits while having fun! Youth develop friendships, cooperation, and character values. Healthy team competition providing a context for practicing humility, overcoming obstacles, strategic thinking, and being part of a community!
Note: Contact the Mission Viejo Family YMCA to Enroll. Charter School Funds Accepted
Instructor: Certified YMCA Instructor
Thursdays: 11:15-12:15
13 weeks: January 23, 30 February 6, 13, 20, 27 March 20, 27 April 3, 10, 24 May 1, 8
(No Class: March 6, 13 April 17)
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $273
Course Overview
Warm-Ups, activities, group games, and group sports to help prepare students for a life of physical fitness, fitness testing, improved social/emotional awareness, and self-esteem. Activities and sports can be adjusted depending on age and skill level of students.
Our goal is to keep youth active and excited about lifelong skills and healthy habits while having fun! Youth develop friendships, cooperation, and character values. Healthy team competition providing a context for practicing humility, overcoming obstacles, strategic thinking, and being part of a community!
Note: Contact the Mission Viejo Family YMCA to Enroll. Charter School Funds Accepted
Instructor: Certified YMCA Instructor
12:15-12:45 Thursdays - Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Lunch Bunch
Thursdays: 12:15-12:45
13 weeks: January 23, 30 February 6, 13, 20, 27 March 20, 27 April 3, 10, 24 May 1, 8
(No Class: March 6, 13 April 17)
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $156
Course Overview
Time for fun! This is a supervised period where students eat their lunches in between classes. This community-building environment is great for giving students some interaction between classes.
Note: Contact the Mission Viejo Family YMCA to Enroll. Charter School Funds Accepted
Instructor: Certified YMCA Instructor
Thursdays: 12:15-12:45
13 weeks: January 23, 30 February 6, 13, 20, 27 March 20, 27 April 3, 10, 24 May 1, 8
(No Class: March 6, 13 April 17)
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $156
Course Overview
Time for fun! This is a supervised period where students eat their lunches in between classes. This community-building environment is great for giving students some interaction between classes.
Note: Contact the Mission Viejo Family YMCA to Enroll. Charter School Funds Accepted
Instructor: Certified YMCA Instructor
12:45-1:45 Thursdays - Mission Viejo Family YMCA
NEW! Reading Comprehension: Learning the Elements of a Story
Thursday: 12:45-1:45
6 weeks: January 23, 30 February 6, 13, 20, 27
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $245
Course Overview:
Unlock the secrets of storytelling as we learn about the fascinating world of reading comprehension and story elements. This six-week course is an excellent choice for students to strengthen their reading comprehension skills, or if they just love stories. Through literature read aloud’s, meaningful activities, and practice, student develop skills to elevate their reading fluency and comprehension.
Course Highlights:
Outside Classwork - Approximately one hour per week. Use this time to review concepts, reinforce learning, and explore related resources.
Instructor: Lisa Antonic
Thursday: 12:45-1:45
6 weeks: January 23, 30 February 6, 13, 20, 27
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $245
Course Overview:
Unlock the secrets of storytelling as we learn about the fascinating world of reading comprehension and story elements. This six-week course is an excellent choice for students to strengthen their reading comprehension skills, or if they just love stories. Through literature read aloud’s, meaningful activities, and practice, student develop skills to elevate their reading fluency and comprehension.
Course Highlights:
- Explore the fundamental building blocks of any narrative—characters, plot, setting, and theme.
- Reading Comprehension Strategies: Develop essential skills to extract meaning from texts.
- Fluency Support: Practice reading aloud and improve your expressive abilities.
- Interactive Discussions: Engage in thought-provoking conversations about literary works.
- Enhance critical thinking skills.
Outside Classwork - Approximately one hour per week. Use this time to review concepts, reinforce learning, and explore related resources.
Instructor: Lisa Antonic
NEW! Reading Comprehension: Exploring Story Elements
Thursdays: 12:45-1:45
7 weeks: March 20, 27 April 3, 10, 24 May 1, 8
No Class: April 17
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $260
Course Overview:
In this dynamic course, participants learn strategies for enhancing reading fluency, comprehension, and dissect the essential components of captivating stories. From characters and settings to plot twists and resolution, learners will embark on a literary adventure that bridges fluency and storytelling. Students will learn about common themes in literature and explore a variety of themes in classical children’s literature.
Course Highlights: Understanding Story Elements:
Outside Classwork - Approximately one hour per week. Use this time to review concepts, reinforce learning, and explore related resources.
Instructor: Lisa Antonic
Thursdays: 12:45-1:45
7 weeks: March 20, 27 April 3, 10, 24 May 1, 8
No Class: April 17
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $260
Course Overview:
In this dynamic course, participants learn strategies for enhancing reading fluency, comprehension, and dissect the essential components of captivating stories. From characters and settings to plot twists and resolution, learners will embark on a literary adventure that bridges fluency and storytelling. Students will learn about common themes in literature and explore a variety of themes in classical children’s literature.
Course Highlights: Understanding Story Elements:
- Gain mastery over the fundamental building blocks of storytelling. We’ll explore characters, settings, plots, and conflicts.
- Character Exploration: Uncover the secrets behind well-crafted characters. Learn how their motivations, flaws, and growth drive the heart of any story.
- Setting: Journey through vivid landscapes plot dynamics: From exposition to resolution, we’ll analyze the twists, turns, and climaxes that keep readers hooked. Identify themes in stories: friendship, family, nature, courage, imagination
Outside Classwork - Approximately one hour per week. Use this time to review concepts, reinforce learning, and explore related resources.
Instructor: Lisa Antonic