For Linda Brodette, the Merrimack Valley YMCA has provided a welcoming and engaging space for play, bonding and growth with her granddaughter Ellie.
The pair has been coming to the Y’s You and Me toddler gymnastics program for more than a year.
“My granddaughter started “nastics” with Miss Silvana shortly before her first birthday, and a year later, we are still having so much fun,” said Linda. “It’s been wonderful to see her confidence, social skills and personality just bloom in the program! She went from being terrified of the slide and balance beam to climbing stairs, running and rolling down the mats and walking on the beam all while making new friends.”
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The Merrimack Valley YMCA Andover/North Andover Branch is a hub for families, with activities and programs that fits families of all ages.
For our youngest children, the Y can keep kids active and moving all winter. Swimming, gymnastics, mini ballet, basketball and sports sampler are available throughout the year with varying sessions and time slots.
School age children can join youth basketball in March for one day a week session to stay active in between the winter and spring seasons. Youth tumbling and sports sampler are also available.
For tweens and teens, we have conditioning and strength training with personal trainers and access to our wellness center. Preteens and teens can also learn the basics and play scrimmages through our beginner or intermediate volleyball programs.
All of these programs are open to the public and also available at discounted prices for Y family members. A family membership at the Merrimack Valley YMCA includes early registration for programs, including our popular swimming lessons.
Adult members can take advantage of our Parent/Child classes – included free with a Y family membership – and our free Child Watch program.
“It is wonderful to be able to meet other families in the community with children the same age and let them explore and get their energy out together,” said Katelynn Brann, of Andover, who takes her children to You and Me Toddler Gymnastics each week at the Andover/North Andover YMCA. “We’ve met so many friends there and look forward to going each week.”
Parents can work out in our fitness studio or take a group exercise class while children are cared for in our safe, clean child watch room under the supervision of the Y’s dedicated staff.
“I am very grateful for the Child Watch at the Y. It has become a regular activity for us that we all look forward to,” said Eva Parsons, a Methuen mom of two-year-old twins. “I am so lucky to stay home with my children, but getting that hour or so break from them to exercise and clear my mind makes me a better Mom for the rest of the day. I would highly recommend Child Watch to any parent.”
Visit www.mvymca.org to learn more and register for programs.
