Irving Park YMCA255

The Irving Park Y is one of the largest branches in Chicago, and has extensive facilities, including an indoor pool, a gym, and an indoor running track.

Family Swim: The pool is open for free swim during specified hours. The schedule changes monthly, so call or consult the Y's small pool schedule.

Swim Lessons: The YMCA progressive swim program is a comprehensive, seven level curriculum. Each class builds upon the proceeding one for children ages six to 15 years. This program follows the nationally accredited YMCA Progressive Swim Program, which emphasizes safety and fun as well as skill development. New students are tested the first day of class and put in the appropriate level.

Children ages five years old and younger progress through eight different levels: Ages six to 36 months - Classes consist of water enrichment and movement exercises. A parent must accompany these children. Ages three to five years - Classes consist of water adjustment and beginning swimming skills while preparing students for the progressive program. These children attend classes alone.

The YMCA can also arrange for private swimming lessons for you or your child, if you prefer.

Preschool: Little Explorers classes offer preschoolers physical activities, free play, craft time, and swimming to help your preschool child develop school-readiness skills in a relaxed environment. Parents must volunteer for one class each session, and parents should remain in the building during the program. Little Explorers' Fridays packs gym, swim and computers into a 3 hour day. Minimum participation is required in order to run each program. Children must be 3 years and potty trained.

Prices may vary from session to session depending on number of classes offered.

Classes for older kids include swimming, martial arts (Aikiado and Tae Kwon Do), basketball, wrestling, flag football, floor hockey, ballet, acrobatics, creative movement, Hip Hop, preteen modern jazz, Teen salsa and swing, soccer, and volleyball, among other offerings.

Afterschool programs, for kids ages four to 12 years old, offer a range of activities, including swim classes, arts & crafts, sports, gym activities, homework time, board games, music, science experiments, and outdoor play. Fees and schedules vary. [773.777.7500]

If week-long school vacations are looming, consider The Irving Park Y's Vacation Camp programs. The program includes games, crafts, free swim and much more.

Also check the Y's Summer Camp, which includes an exciting program supervised by trained counselors, transportation, two field trips per week, arts and crafts, T-shirts, swimming lessons, a group photo, and lots of fun.

Pool parties run for two hours and include a certified lifeguard; a maximum of 30 guests may be invited. Call for prices and details.

Membership: An annual membership at one center within the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago organization entitles the member to membership privileges at any of the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago branch locations. Reciprocity members may register during non-member registration periods.

An initial joining fee is required.