Parks And Recreation Program Registration Ongoing

Fit Toddlers - For 2&3 year olds (age determined by first day of class).  Each of the eight classes are a fun adventure for your toddler.  Parachute games, obstacle courses, games and much more create a playful environment for your child.  Parents are welcome to participate with the children.  Parents that do participate must sign their name to the release agreement on their child’s registration form. Classes meet Tuesdays 9:30-10:15 a.m., Thursdays 9:30-10:15 a.m. or Fridays at 9:30-10:15 a.m. or 10:30-11:15 a.m. at the Berlin Community Center.  All classes start the week of January 2.  When you register you must register for one time slot and attend that class only.  Fee is $65.00 for residents, $75.00 for non-residents.

Sports Jam – For 4&5 year olds (age determined by first day of class) – Develop pre-sport skills and team participation in this class created for the child with lots of energy.  Soccer, baseball, kickball, basketball and many other sport skills will be incorporated into games and activities.  Parents are welcome to participate with the children.  Parents that do participate must sign their name to the release agreement on their child’s registration form. Classes meet Tuesdays 10:30-11:15 a.m. or Thursdays 10:30-11:15 a.m. at the Berlin Community Center.  All classes start the week of January 2. When you register you must register for one time slot and attend that class only.  Fee is $65.00 for residents, $75.00 for non-residents.

Dance Class – We are currently looking for an instructor and will send out a separate flyer once we can set up classes.

Karate – Little Ninja’s, ages 4-6.  Tuesdays and Thursdays, 4:45-5:30 p.m. for 8 weeks, starting January 10.  Fee is $99.00 for residents, $109 for nonresidents with free uniform, awards ceremony.  Held at First Class Martial Arts and Fitness, 158 Mill St., Berlin, CT.  Prior registrants not eligible to register.  Deadline to register is January 5.

Karate – Beginners, ages 7-12.  Mondays 5:30-6:15 p.m. and Wednesdays, 4:45-5:30 p.m. for 8 weeks, starts January 9.  Fee is $99.00 for residents, $109 for nonresidents with free uniform, awards ceremony.  Held at First Class Martial Arts and Fitness, 158 Mill St., Berlin, CT.  Prior registrants not eligible to register.  Deadline to register is January 5.

ABC for you and me Arts and Crafts – For ages Preschool -5 years.    Come join us for some morning fun making arts and crafts and learning the ABC’s.  Your children will enjoy a story, craft and a new letter every class.  Fee is $40.00 for residents and $50.00 for non residents.  Limit 8 children. Classes will meet at the Berlin Community Center on Thursdays from 9:30-10:15 a.m. starting on January 12.

Art for Two – Parent/Child art class – Come make a craft with your kids.  For grades K-2 on Saturday, February 11 from 10:00-11:00 a.m.  A Valentine’s Day themed craft will be featured.  Class will be held at the Berlin Community Center.  Fee is $15.00 for residents and $25.00 for non-residents (price includes cost for materials).

Soccer Madness “Soccercise” Program – Soccer Madness “ Soccercise” program for girls and boys 3 ½ to 5 years old (age determined by first day of class).  Explore a combination of soccer and exercise.  Learn basic soccer skills through unique games and fun activities.  Parents are welcome to participate in the fun and games with the children.  Parents that do participate must sign their name to the release agreement on their child’s registration form.  All children will receive a t shirt and ball for participating.  Dino Rocco former Newington High School Girl’s Varsity Assistant Coach and a Berlin Youth Soccer coach will conduct the program.  The program will be held at the Berlin Community Center, Multi-purpose Room, is one hour long and meets twice a week for 6 weeks.  The minimum number of participants is eight or more and the maximum class size is fifteen.  Fee for residents will be $85.00 and for non residents $95.00.  Monday and Wednesday 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. February 7 – March 21, 2012

Performing Arts Inc., Berlin Community Center - Mondays, February 6 – March 26, 2012- No class February 20.  Seven weeks.  Grades K – 2: 4:15 – 5:00 p.m.  Grades 3 – 6: Acting: 5:05-5:55 p.m.  Some of the things that will be covered: Theater games concentration exercises, voice and speech, improvisational exercises, acting terminology, sense memory, subtext, stage skills and script work.  Classes will also offer exciting activities for the more experienced participant as well!  Fee for each class is $90.00 for residents, $100.00 for non-residents to register by mail, or $87.00 for residents on line or by phone, non residents $97.00.  Two classes must run one after the other for programs to be offered.  There is a minimum of 7 and a limit of 22 for each class.  Registration accepted by Performing Arts Inc., only.  To register online go to www.town.berlin.ct.us   Department  & Officials then Parks & Recreation and look for link in program information, or go directly to www.performingartsprograms.biz, to get reduced price.  Each individual registration needs to be entered separately.  Enter coupon code PAPCLASS at checkout for each individual.  By phone: 860-432-9890, or by mail: Performing Arts Program, Inc., P.O. Box 633, South Windsor, CT 06074.  Registration forms for mail registration are available at the Berlin Parks and Recreation Department.  Performing Arts Programs, Inc. accepts VISA, American Express, Master Card, PayPal and Discover for online or phone registrations.  All refund requests follow the Berlin Parks and Recreation Department policy listed in the winter brochure with the following exceptions, funds for refunds will be issued by Performing Arts Programs, Inc. fees paid by credit card will be refunded by credit card, exceptions to refund policy will be made jointly by Performing Arts Programs Inc. and the Director of Berlin Parks and Recreation.  If joint decision cannot be made then decision will be sole decision of Director of Berlin Parks and Recreation Dept.

Red Cross Babysitting course –is for youths 11 years old and up will help prepare students to supervise children in the absence of parents or guardians. This course offer the youths the opportunity to develop skills in leadership and professionalism, learn how to take care of children from infants up to school age, child development, basic care, simple cooking and crafts, safety, safe play and first aid.  Students will receive a babysitting manual and a certificate (upon successfully completing the course).  Fee for residents is $55.00 and non residents $65.00.  Class will be held at the Berlin Community Center.Class 1: January 24 and 31 – 5:00 – 8: 15 p.m.  Class 2: February 22 and 29 – 5:00 – 8:15 p.m.

Basketball Girls 2nd Grade  -Will be held beginning Saturday, January 7 at Griswold School Auditorium from 1:00-2:00 p.m. This is an instructional program, there will be limited time set aside each week for games.  Program will run for 8 weeks.  Fee is $60.00 for residents, $70.00 for non-residents.  Class space is limited.  Indicate t-shirt size on registration form.

Basketball Boys 2nd Grade - Will be held beginning Saturday, January 7 at Griswold School Auditorium from 12:00-1:00 p.m. or 2:00-3:00 p.m.  This is an instructional program, there will be limited time set aside each week for games.  Program will run for 8 weeks. Fee is $60.00 for residents, $70.00 for non-residents.  Class space is limited.  Indicate t-shirt size on registration form.

Men’s 31+ Basketball - Tuesday’s at McGee Middle School.  The program will run 6:00-9:00 p.m. from December 6 through March 27.  There is a $60.00 fee for the season for residents, $80.00 for non residents or you can drop-in and pay $5.00 at the door for residents or $10.00 for non residents. Drop-ins must provide verification of eligibility at the door. Teams will be formed on a nightly basis.

Women’s 30+ Volleyball - Wednesday’s at the Berlin High School A gym.  The program will run 6:00-7:30 p.m. from January 4 through April 4.  There is a $55.00 fee for this program for residents, $75.00 for non residents or you can drop-in and pay $5.00 at the door for residents or $10.00 for non residents.  Drop-ins must provide verification of eligibility at the door. Teams will be formed on a nightly basis.

Jazzercise – 18 and older.  Jazzercise is the number one dance fitness program in the world.  This is a dance based fitness program consisting of aerobics and strength training.  Held at the Community Center on Tuesdays and Thursday nights, 5:45-6:45 p.m. starting Tuesday, December 13.  There is a fee of $75.00 for residents, $85.00 for non-residents.  There is also an option of including eight Saturdays mornings in addition to Tuesday/Thursdays for an additional $25.00 for residents, $30.00 for non-residents starting December 10 from 8:30-9:30 a.m.  You are welcome to bring your own mat and free weights, if desired.  Limit of 30.

Pilates – Our Pilates classes are held at the Berlin Community Center. Instructors are from Personal Euphoria, Wethersfield.  For more information on Pilates visit www.pilatesct.com  Co-ed 18 years of age and up.

Core Blast Pilates: Exercises are designed to strengthen and stretch every muscle in the body while also improving balance.  Focus is also on developing a strong core while also increasing flexibility and movement.  This class is based on traditional Pilates exercises with a modern flare and upbeat music to help keep you energized.  Come ready to work your abs, back, arms legs, and glutes.  Every exercise can be modified for beginner and intermediate levels.   Wear comfortable clothes, bring a mat and water. Multi – Purpose Room ,  10 weeks, Limit of 15 participants. Fee: $87.00  residents   $97.00  non-residents  No Class on Jan. 16, Feb. 20, Mondays, 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. Jan. 9 to March 26 Mondays, 7:00 – 8:00 p.m. Jan. 9 to March 26

Power-Up Pilates: Like our regular Pilates class, this class will provide a full body workout.  You’ll work your arms, legs, abs, back, and butt, but use props that will help to strengthen, tighten and tone the entire body quickly and safely.  Power-Up Plates integrates the lengthening and stretching principles of traditional Pilates and add strength training.  Though exercises might feel more intense, every exercise can be modified for beginner and intermediate levels.  Wear comfortable clothes, bring a mat and water.  Fee: $87.00 residents   $97.00 non-residents   No class on March 14  Wednesday, 7:00 – 8:00 p.m. Jan. 11 to March 21   Multi–Purpose Room, 10 weeks  Limit of 15 participants

20/20 FUNKtion Pilates - A 20 minute dance workout with fun, funky music that will get your spirit and energy up! Followed by a 20 minute strength and conditioning segment using bands, balls, ( and occasionally small weights)  this easy- to – follow, calorie burning workout is not only fun, but functional movement-designed by Pilates instructors. We’ll activate every major muscle group so be prepared to sweat and burn calories.  All fitness levels are welcome and no prior dance experience is required.  Time will fly-you’ll get in, get out, and get energized.  The music and instructors will help motivate you to move, and you just might walk out the door dancing.  Wear comfortable clothes, bring a mat, water  and we’ll provide the rest.  Get fun, funky and functional.  Fee: $70.00 residents   $80.00 non-residents   No class on March 14  Wednesday, 6:15 – 7:00 p.m. Jan. 11 to March 21 Multi–Purpose Room,  10 weeks  Limit of 15 participants.

Stretch Pilates for Seniors: 60 years and older.  Pilates was developed to benefit all individuals, no matter what their fitness level, making Pilates a wonderful exercise option for everyone. In addition to strengthening the core and maintaining loose, limber limbs, particular attention will be made to help improve posture and balance. Additional stretching exercises will be provided to help increase flexibility, which can often be lost with aging. The exercises will help create body awareness, maintain muscle strength, improve balance, and maintain range of motion in joints in order to help keep you mobile and active.  Pilates should help reduce back and joint pain.  Pilates doesn't just make muscles strong, it is designed to keep the muscles working together so that the body can move harmoniously throughout daily activities.  That is what kept Joseph Pilates doing the exercises into his eighties.  Variations and modifications will be available for all body types. This class will be focused towards seniors although all are welcome to attend. If you are concerned about working out on the floor, please contact Park and Recreation so that we can address those questions. Fee: $87.00 residents   $97.00 non-residents  No Class on Jan. 16, Feb. 22  Mondays,  9:30 – 10:30 a.m.  Jan. 9 to March 26,  Multi-purpose Room   10 weeks   Limit of 15 participants 

Tai Chi for Osteoporosis and Fall Prevention for ages 60 and older - Tai Chi consists of fluid gentle movements that are relaxed and slow in tempo.  It has been proven to work by slowing down bone loss, improving balance, reducing falls and improving quality of life.   Dress comfortably.  This class meets 12 times. Both classes held at the Berlin Community Center.     Fee is $72.00 for residents and $82.00 for non-residents. A minimum of six participants is needed to conduct the class with a maximum of twenty participants.  Wednesdays starting January 4 through March 21, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., or Thursdays starting January 5 through March 29, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., no class on January 19.

DOG OBEDIENCE CLASSES  –  All classes are held at the former Pistol Creek Golf course, 600 Spruce Brook Rd., East Berlin.  Dog handlers should be at least 16 years of age. Instructor is Wendy McGurgan, Professional Dog Trainer, Assistant Trainer is Shirley Coulombe.Kindergarten

Puppy Training – The class is for puppies aged 2 ½ months to 6 months old.  We will work on leash walking and the come, sit and down commands.  Your puppy will also develop social skills and confidence.  Learn how to praise and correct your puppy appropriately.  Start a great relationship with your pup!  We will address problems like chewing, housebreaking and crate training.  The first class is mandatory unless you are excused by the instructor.  You will need a 6 ft. leash and we will discuss leashes and collars in the first class.  First class is held without dogs.  Please bring a copy of your puppy’s current vaccinations to the first class.  Fee $55.00 for residents and $65.00 for non-residents.  Seven weeks, Thursdays January 5-February 16 from 6:00-7:00 p.m.  Limit of 10.

Basic Dog Obedience – The class will cover basic commands for the family dog.  Commands include sit, down, stay, heel, come and stand.  You will learn how to correct bad habits such as jumping up and pulling on the leash.  Learn how to praise, correct and discipline your dog appropriately.  Dogs should be at least 6 months old. The first class is mandatory unless you are excused by the instructor.  You will need a 6 ft. leash and we will discuss leashes and collars in the first class.  First class is held without dogs!  A copy of your dog’s current vaccinations including Bordetella must be given to instructor at the first class.  Fee $55.00 for residents, $65.00 for non-residents.  The class will run for seven weeks, on Tuesdays, from January 3-February 14 from 6:00-7:00 p.m.  Limit of 10.

Better Basic Class – This class is for dogs and handlers that have completed Basic Dog Obedience.  Emphasis will be on improving and sharpening the skills learned in basic class.  We will concentrate on the stay, heel, come and recall exercises.  We will work with a greater level of distraction and on skills that you and your dog need help on by giving you more insight into your dog’s behavior.  You will need a six-foot leash.  We will reward our dogs with verbal and physical praise, not food.  Please bring a copy of your dog’s vaccinations to the instructor if she does not have this already on file.  Fee $55.00 for residents and $65.00 for non-residents.  The class will run for six weeks, on Wednesdays, from January 4-February 8 from 6:00-7:00 p.m.  Limit of 10.