Youth & Teen Wellness
Growing Strong in Spirit, Mind, and Body
At The Family YMCA of Southeast Mississippi, we’re dedicated to helping children and teens build healthy habits that last a lifetime. From our youngest members to active teens, the Y provides a safe, welcoming environment where youth can stay active, gain confidence, develop new skills, and create lasting friendships.
Whether it’s through childcare, aquatics, fitness, or family activities, we’re here to support every stage of your child’s journey.
Youth Programs (Ages 12 & Under)
Our youth programs encourage children to learn, grow, and thrive in a fun, supportive environment.
Afterschool & Summer Camp
Our Afterschool and Summer Camp programs provide a safe place for children to enjoy homework assistance, healthy snacks, physical activity, character-building experiences, and plenty of fun.
Learn more about our:
- Hattiesburg YMCA Afterschool & Summer Camp
- Petal YMCA Afterschool & Summer Camp
Child Watch (Ages 6 Weeks–12 Years)
Need time for a workout or class? We’ve got you covered.
Child Watch is FREE for children included on an Adult + Children or Two Adults + Children membership while a parent or guardian is using the YMCA.
Reservations are recommended, as space is limited.
Aquatics
Swimming is more than a sport—it’s a life-saving skill. The YMCA has been teaching swim lessons and water safety for generations, helping children build confidence in and around the water.
For the safety of all swimmers, children 12 years of age and younger must be directly supervised in the pool by a parent or guardian (18 years or older).
Group Exercise
Teens ages 13 and older are welcome to participate in age-appropriate Group Exercise classes alongside a parent or guardian.
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone, children who are not participating in class should not remain in the exercise studio during scheduled class times.
Visit our Schedules page to view current Group Exercise and Aquatics schedules.
Teen Fitness
The YMCA is a great place for teens to develop healthy habits, build confidence, and learn how to exercise safely.
Hattiesburg YMCA
- Ages 13–14 may use the upstairs Fitness Center and Healthy Living Center after completing the Teen Safety Program.
- Ages 15 and older may use the Fitness Center independently.
Petal YMCA
- Ages 13–14 may use the Fitness Center when accompanied by a parent or guardian.
- Ages 10–12 may use the Alpha Center when accompanied by a parent or guardian.
- Ages 15 and older may use the Fitness Center independently.
For more information about the Teen Safety Program, contact Member Services.
Health & Wellness
At the Y, wellness is about more than fitness—it’s about creating a healthy lifestyle that strengthens the spirit, mind, and body.
Whether you’re just getting started or looking to reach the next level, our wellness team is here to help. From personal training and fitness orientations to more than 120 weekly group exercise classes, we offer programs and support for every age, ability, and fitness level.
Our Get Started Program helps new members feel comfortable and confident by connecting them with a Health & Wellness Coach who will guide them toward the programs and equipment that best fit their goals.
Aquatics
For more than 170 years, the YMCA has been America’s leader in teaching swim lessons and water safety. We believe everyone should have the opportunity to learn to swim and enjoy the water safely.
Whether you’re enrolling your child in swim lessons, swimming laps, participating in water fitness, or simply enjoying family swim time, our aquatics programs offer something for every age and ability.
Because when children learn to swim, they gain confidence, develop healthy habits, and learn skills that can last a lifetime.
Active Older Adults
Healthy Living Never Gets Old
At the Y, healthy aging is about more than staying active—it’s about staying connected.
Our Active Older Adult (AOA) programs provide opportunities to exercise, learn, volunteer, and build meaningful friendships in a welcoming community. From water exercise and yoga to social outings, educational programs, games, and special events, there’s always something happening at the Y.
Research shows that staying socially connected and physically active supports better health, improved mobility, and greater overall well-being. That’s why our programs are designed to strengthen the spirit, mind, and body while creating a sense of belonging for every participant.
No matter where you are in life’s journey, you’ll find friendship, purpose, and community at the Y.