One of the hallmarks of any impactful community rec center is successful youth programming. While this large area of focus includes physical activity, childcare and more to offer families, it’s imperative to always prioritize program quality and intentional design first.
That’s how Charlie Glynn, the recreation director at Harry & Rose Samson Family JCC (JCC Milwaukee) helped ensure his rec center’s youth programming is effective and innovative.
“Time and energy are best spent creating programs that truly serve families and meet a clear need in the community,” said Glynn. “When a program is well-run, age-appropriate, and engaging, families naturally spread the word and participation grows organically.”
Here are a few successful trends and tips from JCC Milwaukee, the YMCA of Dane County and NinjaZone to ensure your youth programming doesn’t fall behind in 2026.
Maximum Value
Erica Barnes, the director of business development at NinjaZone, said the first trend she’s seeing is families are expecting far more value from their memberships.
“They want consistent, purposeful youth experiences that justify keeping their kids engaged at the Y throughout the year,” said Barnes. “Second, there’s strong demand for movement programs that are not sport-specific. Families want their kids to develop agility, balance, coordination, strength and confidence so they become well rounded athletes who can move into any activity or sport as they grow.”
For JCC Milwaukee, the program that best meets both of those trends is the J’s Temkin Basketball League, which is the organization’s largest, longest running and most successful youth program.
“This nine-week league runs every winter from January through March on Sunday afternoons and serves more than 170 participants annually,” said Glynn. “Open to children in kindergarten through fifth grade, the league is led by dedicated volunteer coaches and supported by JCC recreation staff. The program emphasizes skill development and learning the fundamentals through weekly gameplay in a supportive, low-pressure environment.
Glynn said for many participants, it’s their first experience with organized basketball, making the Temkin Basketball League a true cornerstone of the JCC youth experience and a strong entry point into fitness-based programming.
“Families seeking a positive, confidence-building introduction to sports consistently choose this program,” said Glynn. “While some participants later move on to more competitive leagues, this program provides an essential first step in cultivating lifelong enjoyment of fitness and teamwork.”
Flexible, Intentional Programming
Other trends Barnes is seeing across community rec centers includes kids are gravitating more toward programs that meet them where they are.
“This includes wider age ranges, inclusive formats and entry points that feel accessible for kids who may not want traditional sports,” said Barnes. “Also, YMCAs are thinking more intentionally about how to maximize every square foot. Leaders want programs that serve multiple ages and create long term engagement.”
JCC Milwaukee meets these trends through its Partnership Specialty Camp Week. Glynn said each August, as the J’s off-site day camp season ends, the organization offers this week-long program on the main campus to provide specialized options such as basketball, theater, dance and outdoor recreation to youth.
“In Summer 2025, more than 120 children entering kindergarten through eighth grade participated,” said Glynn. “This offering allows campers to explore focused interests while remaining engaged in structured, active programming during a critical childcare gap at the end of summer.
This week is successful through strategic collaboration with community organizations that bring subject-matter expertise to the JCC but may not have their own physical space.
“These partners provide staff and curriculum, allowing us to offer high-quality, specialized programming while maximizing agency resources,” said Glynn. “For families needing full summer childcare coverage, this week fills an important gap. For campers, it delivers enriching experiences led by experts in each field.”
Thoughtful Childcare
At YMCA of Dane County, one of the most successful youth offerings is the Y’s childcare program.
Scott Shoemaker, the senior director of marketing and communications at YMCA of Dane County, said through traditional preschool programs, afterschool care for elementary school-aged children and a dozen summer day camps, the YMCA takes care of around 2,000 kids annually in the community.
“Safe, affordable childcare is a critical need just about everywhere, and as a community-centered nonprofit, the Y’s ability to offer state-licensed care delivered by a professional staff fulfills this need in our community,” said Shoemaker. “With all the additional amenities offered by the YMCA and the ability to provide need-based financial assistance and program scholarships to kids and families, the Y is unique in the way it can serve community needs.
Shoemaker said before building out a youth program, its critical to know your community and find your audience to build awareness of what you do. With this knowledge, your organization can more effectively fill community needs.
Tips for Overcoming Challenges
If enrollment is lower than expected across any of your youth programming, Glynn said it’s valuable to step back and evaluate the participant experience.
“Look at everything from structure and staffing to atmosphere and outcomes, rather than focusing solely on marketing efforts,” said Glynn. “Strong youth programming builds trust over time, and a positive, fun and meaningful experience is the most effective form of outreach.”
Barnes spoke to this possible issue and said retention is the top challenge rec centers are having with youth programming. Specifically, she said many programs lack a progressive pathway that gives families a reason to stay.
“Another challenge is staff turnover,” said Barnes. “Without curriculum, systems and training that make the program replicable, momentum stalls as soon as a key instructor leaves. YMCAs are also competing with every youth sport and activity in the community. Families have endless options, so programs must feel purposeful.”
To overcome these roadblocks, Barnes said to start by designing programs with a clear long-term journey. When families see what progress looks like, they stay longer and engage more deeply.
“Documented curriculum, training pathways and repeatable systems allow your program to survive turnover and maintain quality,” said Barnes. “Lean into what makes rec centers unique. You can support the whole child through movement, confidence building and community. That’s something club sports cannot replicate.”
Lastly, she said to keep your environments fresh. When families walk into a space that feels updated, they sense your Y invests in youth development.
“Youth programming is one of the strongest pipelines into family membership and long-term loyalty,” said Barnes. “When you invest in experiences that build confidence, resilience and physical literacy, you’re not just filling classes. You’re shaping the next generation of movers and community members.”
