The Independent’s 2010 After-School Guide

The start of school signals the beginning of the end for most back-to-school goers. From summer sunsets spent along the S.B. shore to all-nighters cozying up on the couch to the tunes of their favorite tracks, school usually indicates the demise of all their free time. Yet, all at once, the introduction of fall evokes enrichment of all kinds, particularly of the after-school type. So be prepared to brush up on that ballet barre, kick it in karate class, explore the natural world, and, of course, hit the books with help for subjects of all kinds—The Independent’s annual After-School Guide is here to help keep your tyke’s summer transition a smooth one, with a wide array of educational activities all at your fingertips.

GENERAL PROGRAMS

Girls Inc. of Greater S.B.

After-school programming at Girls Inc. allows girls to participate in enriching, research-based, educational, and fun activities that inspire them to be strong, smart, and bold. Activities incorporate sports, science, art, cooking, dance, reading, drama, computers, and homework help.

Mon.-Fri., Aug. 30 - June 1, 10am-6pm. Two locations: Goleta Valley Ctr., 4973 Hollister Ave., and Santa Barbara Ctr., 531 E. Ortega St. $90/week, full-time, or $50/week, part-time ($50 membership fee applies). Ages 4½-18. Call 967-0319 (Goleta Ctr.) or 963-4017 (S.B. Ctr.); email info@girlsincsb.org, or visit girlsincsb.org.

Montecito Family YMCA After-School Program

This after-school program offers opportunities for primary school-aged children to develop self-awareness, social and physical skills, self-confidence, new interests, and new friends. Curriculum is designed to provide fun, enriching experiences while participating in a variety of activities, such as sports, games, crafts, cooking, field trips, and swimming. The Montecito YMCA is state-licensed and staffed by mature, caring professionals. Five-, four-, and three-day per week options are available, in addition to hourly care. Note: Staff will walk participating children from Montecito Union School to Y’s campus at the end of each school day.

Mon.-Fri., Aug. 30 - June 8, 3-6pm. Montecito Family YMCA, 591 Santa Rosa Ln., Montecito. Grades K-6. Five-day option: $475/month; four-day option: $450/month; three-day option: $425/month; financial assistance is available. (Program also available at $10/hour; maximum two days per week.) Call 969-3288, email yvonne.rubio@ciymca.org, or visit ciymca.org/montecito.

S.B. Parks and Recreation After-School Program (RAP)

Crafts, clubs, field trips, free sports leagues, and homework.

Six 30-day sessions. Registration begins Mon., Aug. 2; registration forms available at 620 Laguna St., sbparksandrecreation.com, and at all participating school offices. Available to Adams, Monroe, Roosevelt, Washington, and Open Alternative students. $140/session. Grades 1-6. Call 564-5495.

S.B. YMCA After-School Care

A licensed after-school care program at two local schools, offering homework help, arts and crafts, games, and character development.

Mon.-Fri., end of class-6pm. Hope Elementary School, 3970 La Colina Rd., and Monte Vista Elementary School, 730 N. Hope Ave. Monthly fees vary depending on schedule; financial assistance available. Grades K-6. Call 687-7720 x266, or email andrea.opfer@ciymca.org.

Santa Ynez Family YMCA After-School Program

Homework assistance, sports, organized games, and themed arts and crafts are the means by which the Stuart C. Gildred YMCA leaders strengthen character through values development and behavior incentives. Program strengthens social, cognitive, and behavioral skills, increases self-esteem. Each day, children receive healthy snacks and get at least 30 minutes of physical fitness or sporting/outdoor activities. Full- and part-time schedules (five or three days), as well as afternoons- or mornings-only options, available. Two locations in the Santa Ynez Valley.

Buellton location: Mon.-Fri., Aug. 25 - June 8, 7-8:15am and 1:30-6pm. Oak Valley Elementary School, 595 Second St. #128, Buellton. Kindergarteners: $355/full-time, $295/part-time per month. Grades 1-7: $275/full-time, $250/part-time per month.

Santa Ynez location: Mon.-Fri., Aug. 25 - June 10, 1-6pm. Santa Ynez Elementary School, 3325 Pine St., Bldg. #27. Kindergarteners: $365/full-time, $285/part-time per month. Grades 1-8: $285/full-time, $220/part-time per month. Call 686-2037, or email michelle.bradley@ciymca.org.

San Marcos Parent-Child Workshop

A Parent Cooperative Early Childhood Program offering parent education and half-day preschool. Daily curriculum addresses all areas of early childhood development in a nurturing and age-appropriate environment.

Mon.-Fri., Sept. 13 - Dec. 17, 8:30am-12:30pm, and Wed., 7-9:30pm. San Marcos High School campus, 4750 Hollister Ave. $40/day. Call 964-8994, or visit smpcw.org.

Preschool, Toddler, and Baby and Me Programs

Mommy and Me Ballet

Your budding ballerina will get off to a great start in this new class from popular ballet instructor Susan Manchak. Little ballerinas will explore the basics of ballet in a supportive environment. Participation from a parent or guardian is required in this class; adults will enjoy gentle exercise while introducing their child to the world of dance.

Tue., 11am-noon. Four sessions: Sept. 14 - Oct. 19, Oct. 26 - Nov. 30, Jan. 4 - Feb. 8, Feb. 15 - Mar. 22. The Davis Ctr., 1232 De la Vina St. $74/$67* RDC per session, or $14/$12* per day drop-in fee. Ages 2-3. Call 451-2034, or register online at sbparksandrecreation.com.

Nature Adventures for Tykes

Fun for toddlers and their caregivers, too! A five-week class series with station-based classes including stories, games, and engaging hands-on activities perfect for budding scientists. A wonderful introduction to science and nature, in a setting surrounded by natural beauty at the SBMNH campus nestled along Mission Creek.

Thu., Oct. 7 - Nov.4, 10:15-11am. S.B. Museum of Natural History, 2559 Puesta del Sol. $75/members; $95/nonmembers (cost is for one child and one adult). Ages 2-4. Call 682-4711 x171, or visit sbnature.org/education.

Santa Ynez Valley YMCA Itty Bitty Sports

A popular program where “itty bitty” children will develop basic sports skills, learn team play, and gain self-confidence in a noncompetitive environment. Sessions offer a variety of sports, including soccer, basketball, T-ball, and hockey.

Wed., 2:30-3:15pm. Four six-week sessions: Sept. 22 - Dec. 8, Jan. 5 - Mar. 23, Mar. 30 - June 22, June 29 - Aug. 17. Stuart C. Gildred YMCA, 900 N. Refugio Rd., Santa Ynez. $24/members; $36 nonmembers. Ages 3-5. Call 686-2037, or email patty.espinoza@ciymca.org.

Art, Dance, Music, and Theater

Art from the Heart

Multigenerational classes are offered for babies, toddlers, young children, and teens, in a retirement-home setting. Parents can stay with younger children or drop off older ones.

Mon., Sept. 13, Oct. 11, Nov. 8, Dec. 13, 1:30-2:30pm. Maravilla Retirement Community, Memory Care Unit, 5486 Calle Real, and Samarkand Retirement Community, Brandel Hall, 2550 Treasure Dr. Free. Call 966-9078, or visit artfromtheheartwithkaren.com.

Art Programs for Girl Scouts

Learn about ceramics while meeting badge requirements. Open to all Junior, Cadette, and Senior scouts in currently registered local Girl Scout troops. An instructor will lead troops in projects tailored to meet badge requirements.

Reservations and a $25 nonrefundable credit card deposit required. Cost: $210 (up to 13 participants for 90 minutes); $12/extra student. Maximum 15 children. Call 897-2568.

Capoeira Lessons

A Brazilian martial art form combining music and acrobatic movements.

Now enrolling. Ages 3-6: Thu., 4:15-5pm; ages 7-12: Mon. and Wed., 4-5pm; ages 12+: Wed. and Thu., 5-6pm. Capoeira Sul da Bahia, 617 E. Gutierrez St. $50/month. Call 637-5355, email capoeriasb@gmail.com, or visit capoeirasb.com.

Ceramics Parties for Children

A unique party idea where children can celebrate by making a special project with friends. Instructor-led activities; refreshments and decorations are provided by the parents.

Parties must be reserved at least two weeks in advance and require a $25 nonrefundable credit card deposit. Cost (up to 13 children): $200; $12/extra child. Maximum 15 children. Call 897-2568.

Children’s Ballet Classes

The City of S.B.’s youth ballet classes are perfect for children who already love to perform, and they help build confidence in those who may be a bit shy. Focus on basic moves, like balances, turns, and jumps. Attire: leotard and tights, or leggings and T-shirt, plus ballet slippers.

Six-week sessions; classes begin Thu., Sept. 16. Ages 3-6: Thu., 4:30-5:30pm; ages 3-5: Fri., 4-5pm; ages 6-10: Fri., 5-6pm. The Davis Ctr., 1232 De la Vina St. $63/57* per session, or $12/$10* drop-in fee. Call 451-2034, register online at sbparksandrecreation.com, or sign up at the first class.

Endowment for Youth Committee’s Music Club

An out-of-class music experience for underprivileged youth with an interest in music who cannot afford private lessons or private clubs. Instruments are provided; curriculum includes elements of music literacy, reading and general theory, plus instrument and vocal instruction.

Wed., 3-5pm, during the S.B. public school system’s academic year. Meets at Franklin Elementary auditorium, 1111 E. Mason St. Available to Cleveland Elementary, Adelante Charter, and Franklin Elementary students. Grades 5-6. Call 730-3347, or visit eyc4kids.org.

Montecito School of Ballet Dance Lessons

Daily classes after school for students in a range of styles, including classical ballet, hip-hop, jazz, and more; all levels are taught. Dancers are welcome to take part in performances, held four times per year, or simply take lessons. Classes are taught by licensed professional dance teachers, providing high-quality instruction, fun classes, and new and original dances.

Classes begin Tue., Sept. 7. 529 E. Gutierrez St. Ages 4-18. Call 560-0597.

S.B. Dance Arts

S.B. Dance Arts is now celebrating its 14th year under the direction of Alana Tillim and Steven Lovelace. Learn from Broadway veterans and internationally trained professionals in classes for all levels and ages. Classes include jazz, hip-hop, Broadway, lyrical, ballet, tap, and tiny tots.

Enrolling now. S.B. Dance Arts, 1 N. Calle César Chávez, #100. Call 966-5299, email alana@sbdancearts.com, or visit sbdancearts.com.

Santa Ynez Family YMCA Piano Lessons

Half-hour private piano lessons are available for participants of all ages and abilities. Students will learn rhythm, note recognition, theory, how to read music, and practice playing the piano. Beginning students will start on the keyboard and progress to a standard piano.

Flexible schedules Mon.-Fri. Four sessions:

Sept. 20 - Dec. 10, Jan. 3 - Mar. 25, Mar. 28 - June 24, June 27-Aug. 19. Stuart C. Gildred YMCA, 900 N. Refugio Rd., Santa Ynez. $25-$38/lesson or $135-$205/six lessons. Ages 5+. Call 686-2037, or email hannah.valdez@ciymca.org.

Youth Acting Program

Students role-play, improvise, and learn mime through theater games and activities. Led by experienced instructor Brendan Fleming; small class sizes. No memorization required.

Tue., 4-5pm. Four sessions: Sept. 14 - Oct. 19, Oct. 26 - Nov. 30, Jan. 4-Feb. 8, or Feb. 15-Mar. 22. The Davis Ctr., 1232 De la Vina St. $165/$150* per session. Ages 6-12. Call 451-2034, or register online at sbparksandrecreation.com.

Young Singers’ Club Solo Singing and Choir Classes

Students practice vocal warm-ups and exercises, and learn to perform solos and choir numbers, culminating in performances at SOhO Restaurant & Music Club, retirement homes, and Camino Real Marketplace. Themes include Broadway, Disney, and Taylor Swift.

Fall session runs Sept. 13 - Nov. 8; once- and twice-weekly schedules available. Located near San Marcos High School. $150-$500. Aged-based group classes for students 4-12+. Call 681-7078, email youngsingers@aol.com, or visit youngsingersclub.com.

TEENS

Club ’86

In 1886, Ellen Brown was hired as the first female YMCA employee at the YMCA in Buffalo, New York. Today, more than 60 percent of the YMCA staff is female. This is a program that provides a safe setting for young ladies to discuss common concerns faced by girls today and accept who they are so that they might lead others to make history in their communities. It aims to help girls discover what it is that makes a true leader and learn how to use their gifts and talents to fundamentally help others and the community.

Tue., 7pm, starting Sept. 14. The majority of special events will occur between Sept. 2010 and Apr. 2011. S.B. Family YMCA, 36 Hitchcock Wy. Call 687-7720 x259, or email megan.bishop@ciymca.org.

Endowment for Youth Committee’s Yes, I Can! Program

A multifaceted program aimed at providing Santa Barbara youth with the tools to succeed in high school and beyond. During the course of a nine-month program involving workshops, volunteer assignments, group activities, and event planning, participants will obtain heightened confidence, civic awareness, and leadership skills.

Program runs concurrently with the S.B. public school district system’s academic schedule. Grades 9-11. Call 730-3347 or visit eyc4kids.org.

YMCA’s Youth and Government Program

Delegates will learn the roles and responsibilities of state legislators and court assemblies at training and election conferences. During weekly meetings, delegates learn how to write bills, fundraise, and improve team-building skills. Elected student officials will be able to attend conferences with other teens from across California, including a three-day trip to Sacramento in February.

Wed., Sept. 8 - Oct. 20 or Oct. 27 - Dec. 8, 3:15-4pm. S.B. Family YMCA, 36 Hitchcock Wy. $25/members; $35/nonmembers. Grades 6-8. Call 687-7720 x259 or email megan.bishop@ciymca.org.

YMCA Model United Nations (MUN)

“It’s Your World!” Participants take on the roles of ambassadors of countries to address global issues, write resolutions, discover other cultures, and make new friends. MUN is designed to expand awareness of and engagement in global issues, teach public speaking, develop leadership skills, promote social development and fellowship with peers, and enhance personal growth reflecting the YMCA core values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility.

Tue., Sept. 7 - Oct. 19 or Oct. 26 - Dec. 7, 3:15-4pm. S.B. Family YMCA, 36 Hitchcock Wy. $25/members; $35/nonmembers. Grades 6-8. Call 687-7720 x259 or email megan.bishop@ciymca.org.

SPORTS AND NATURE

Ken Ota’s Aikido, Ki, and Judo

Boost your child’s self esteem with aikido, the martial art with class! Powerful and effective, but nonviolent. Students develop focus through discipline, plus confidence and coordination. Respect and positive attitude stressed. Children’s and teens’ classes: one hour aikido/ki, plus one hour judo, for a two-hour class.

Ongoing classes run Tue. and Thu., 4-6pm. 255 Magnolia Ave., Goleta. Call 967-3103.

Kidz Love Soccer Clinics

For all age groups. Drills for younger players; advanced moves for older players. Each participant receives a soccer ball and spring break camp T-shirt. Bring a full water bottle and a snack.

Mommy, Daddy, and Me Soccer (ages 2½-3½): 8:30-9am.

Tot Soccer (ages 3½-4): 9:15-9:45am.

Pre Soccer (ages 4-5): 9:45-10:20am

Soccer 1 (ages 5-6): 10:20-11:05am

Soccer 2 (ages 7-8) and 3 (ages 9-12): 11:05am-12:05pm.

Fall session: Sat., Sept. 25 - Nov. 13; winter session: Jan. 15 - Mar. 5. Dwight Murphy Park Softball Field, Niños Dr. and Por la Mar St. $98/$89 RDC*. Call 564-5422 or register online at sbparksandrecreation.com.

Montecito Family YMCA Swim Lessons

Teaching of swimming techniques, safety in and around water, introduction to water sports, and healthy choices.

Sept. 13 - Oct. 14. Montecito Family YMCA, 591 Santa Rosa Ln., Montecito. $40/members; $100/nonmembers. Ages 6-14. Call 969-3288.

Montecito Family YMCA Swim Team

Swimmers engage in fine tuning of swimming techniques, endurance building, introduction to water sports, and participate in local meets.

Sept. 13 - Nov. 19. Montecito Family YMCA, 591 Santa Rosa Ln., Montecito. $40/members; $100/nonmembers. Ages 6 months-14 years; swimmers must be approved by team coach. Call 969-3288.

Montecito Family YMCA Volleyball

Players receive instruction and coaching on volleyball fundamentals and healthy choices. Coed program.

Tue., Sept. 21 - Nov. 23. Ages 5-8: 3:30-4pm; ages 8-12: 4-5pm. Montecito Family YMCA, 591 Santa Rosa Ln., Montecito. $67/members; $92/nonmembers. Call 969-3288.

Montecito Family YMCA Youth Wellness Classes

Single-sport instruction in karate, ballet, hip-hop dance, and inline skating. Designed to introduce movement and help participants learn new skills.

Two sessions: Sept. 13 - Oct. 15 (registration deadline: Sept. 8), and Oct. 25 - Nov. 26 (registration deadline: Oct. 18); schedules vary by activity. Montecito Family YMCA, 591 Santa Rosa Ln., Montecito. Call 969-3288.

Nature Adventures

Go beyond the classroom and reconnect to nature! Children will have opportunities to experiment, experience, and observe the natural world around them, while engaging in the scientific process. Nature Adventures assists children with the development of their sensory and observational skills, while expanding their curiosity and appreciation for nature.

Two five-week class series. Ages 4-5: Tue., Oct. 5 - Nov. 2,

3:30-5pm; ages 6-10: Wed., Oct. 6 - Nov. 3, 3:30-5pm. S.B. Museum of Natural History, 2559 Puesta del Sol. $75/members; $95/nonmembers. Call 682-4711 x171, or visit sbnature.org/education.

Nature Adventures Astronomy Club

Climb aboard for an exploration of rocket ships, stars, and deep space! Learn about the constellations and how to navigate by the stars from here on Earth. Enjoy special planetarium presentations and working with the magic planet. Then, discover how astronauts prepare for their trips, and how rockets work.

Sat., Oct. 9, Nov. 13, Dec. 11, 9-11am. S.B. Museum of Natural History, 2559 Puesta del Sol. $50/members; $75/nonmembers. Ages 8-12. Call 682-4711 x171 or visit sbnature.org/education.

Pony League Baseball: Ages 7-14

This program offers kids the opportunity to have fun while receiving instruction from experienced coaches. Cosponsored by the City of S.B.’s Parks & Recreation Department.

Age divisions: Pinto AA (7); Pinto AAA (8); Mustang (8-10); Bronco (11-12); and Pony (13-15). Visit sbpony.org, or email santabarbarapony@gmail.com.

Rhythmic Gymnastics

Both a sport and an entertainment, joined in a most feminine way, rhythmic gymnastics combines elements of gymnastics, dance, and apparatus manipulation (such as the ball, rope, hoop, and ribbons). Classes are taught by USA Gymnastics-certified instructor Tatiana Mysko, and will emphasize strength, balance, coordination, and flexibility.

Tue. and Thu., Jan. 4 - Feb. 10 or Feb. 15 - Mar. 24, 3:30-5pm. Carrillo Recreation Ctr. Ballroom, 100 E. Carrillo St. Call 451-2034, or register online at sbparksandrecreation.com.

S.B. Family YMCA iCare Program

Doesn’t everyone enjoy the outdoors? YMCA’s iCARE program for middle school-aged children recognizes people’s love for nature and believes that environmental awareness is a key component of health in spirit, mind, and body. Participants will engage in outdoor activities, take part in environmental education programs, go on new adventures in open-air settings, and learn more about taking responsibility for the Earth.

Thu., Sept. 9 - Oct. 21 or Oct. 28 - Dec. 9, 3:15-4pm. Meets at S.B. Family YMCA, 36 Hitchcock Wy. $25/members; $35/nonmembers. Grades 6-8. Call 687-7720 x259, or email megan.bishop@ciymca.org.

S.B. Family YMCA Youth Soccer League

This coed program will provide young players with an opportunity to enjoy soccer in a positive and fun learning environment. The season will feature clinics, scrimmages, and games.

Sat., Sept. 18 - Nov. 6. Pre-K: 9:15-10am; kindergarten: 10-10:50am; grades 1-2: 11am-12:15pm; grades 3-4: 12:30-1:45pm. S.B. Family YMCA, 36 Hitchcock Wy. $75/members; $100/nonmembers. Call 687-7720 x261, or email aaron.martinez@ciymca.org.

Santa Ynez Valley YMCA Swim Lessons

These classes teach pool safety, water adjustment, and the development of independent movement in the water. Children learn to float and to use floatation devices, to paddle stroke and flutter kick, to do front and back paddles,and to do the sidestroke. Once a child can swim one length of the pool (25 yards) on their front, back, and side, they will be introduced to the front and back crawl, sidestroke, breaststroke and elementary backstroke.

Mon. and Wed., 10:30am-7:30pm; half-hour lessons. Four six-week sessions: Sept. 20 - Dec. 8, Jan. 3 - Mar. 23,

Mar. 28 - June 22, June 27 - Aug. 17. Stuart C. Gildred YMCA, 900 N. Refugio Rd., Santa Ynez. $72/members; $108/nonmembers. Ages 6 months-12 years. Call 686-2037, or email patty.espinoza@ciymca.org.

Santa Ynez Valley YMCA Sea Otters Pre-Swim Team

This program is geared for young, competitive hopefuls. At this level, students should have refined the front crawl, breaststroke, backstroke, sidestroke, and be able to swim 50 yards continuously. Children will improve all strokes while increasing endurance. This class may be used in prep for the Seals Swim Team.

Mon.-Wed., 4-4:45pm. Four sessions: Sept. 20 - Dec. 8, Jan. 3 - Mar. 23, Mar. 28 - June 22, June 27 - Aug. 17. Stuart C. Gildred YMCA, 900 N. Refugio Rd., Santa Ynez. $72/members; $108/nonmembers. Ages 6-12. Call 686-2037, or email patty.espinoza@ciymca.org.

Santa Ynez Valley YMCA Seals Swim Team

The YMCA Seals are a competitive team of swimmers who are able to swim four lengths of the pool (100 yards) without assistance. Local YMCA swim meets encourage team bonding and emphasize strong character traits like trust, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring, and citizenship.

Mon., Wed., and Fri., 4:30-5:30pm. Four six-week sessions: Sept. 20 - Dec. 10, Jan. 3 - Mar. 25, Mar. 28 - June 24, June 27 - Aug. 19. Stuart C. Gildred YMCA, 900 N. Refugio Rd., Santa Ynez. $108/members; $163/nonmembers. Ages 6-17. Call 686-2037, or email patty.espinoza@ciymca.org.

Santa Ynez Family YMCA Youth and Teen Wrestling

A program designed to introduce and reinforce fundamental wrestling skills, as well as demonstrate unique wrestling moves, techniques, and conditioning exercises. Wrestlers of all skill levels, from beginner to experienced, will benefit from this program.

Tue. and Thu. Ages 5-8: 2:45-3:30pm; ages 9-15: 3:35-4:30pm. Four six-week sessions: Sept. 21 - Dec. 9, Jan. 4 - Mar. 24, Mar. 29 - June 23, June 28 - Aug. 18. Stuart C. Gildred YMCA, 900 N. Refugio Rd., Santa Ynez. $72/members; $108/nonmembers. Call 686-2037, or email patty.espinoza@ciymca.org.

Tennis Classes

Beginning classes that focus on basic eye-hand coordination and stroke production to advanced drills for footwork. All classes are taught by experienced USPTA-certified instructors. Cosponsored by the City of S.B.’s Parks & Recreation Department.

Ages 4-18: year-round classes; ages 7-14: Sat. clinics. Municipal Tennis Courts, 1414 Park Pl. Call 564-5422, or register online at sbparksandrecreation.com.

Wilderness Youth Project After-School Programs

A nature-based program that provides young people with experiences designed to promote positive choices, cultivate confidence, and build healthy relationships with them others and the natural world. WYP is committed to a participant-to-staff ratio of 4:1. Students will explore the greater Santa Barbara area, from the Santa Ynez River to Summerland Beach.

Mon.-Fri. Ages 3-6: 9:30am-12:30pm. Ages 5-16: 3-6pm. Meets at Tucker’s Grove Park, 805 San Antonio Creek Rd. $210-$350/seven-week session, based on a sliding scale. Call 964-8096 or visit wyp.org.

Youth Swim Lessons

Sponsored by the City of S.B., based on American Red Cross swim programs. Non-swimmers and beginners learn to swim for safety, develop basic swim techniques and vital water safety skills, and learn how to have fun in an aquatic environment.

Mon.-Fri., Aug. 30 - Sept. 10, 4-5:50pm; half-hour lessons. Ortega Park Pool, 600 N. Salsipuedes St. $58/$53 RDC. Ages 4-7. Call 564-5422, or register online at sbparksandrecreation.com.

Tutoring

Dubin Learning Center

The Dubin Learning Center celebrated its 31st summer this year, having helped thousands of students in Santa Barbara reach their potential. Programs are available for students of all levels, from underachievers to gifted and talented, as well as educational therapy for learning differences, dyslexia, Asperger’s syndrome, and ADD. Instruction is individual, with a goal of developing abilities, as well as academic skill. Tutoring is available in all subjects, in addition to test prep for exams like the SAT and more.

Now enrolling. 112 W. Cota St. Grade K-12. Call 962-7122, or visit dubinlearningcenter.com.

Gateway Educational Services Academic Programs

Instructors help students create success by guiding them through any academic challenges and road blocks that keep them from achieving in the classroom.

Programs available year-round. The Education Gateway, 4850-C Hollister Ave. Grades K-12. Call 895-1153, or visit gatewaycamps.com.

Endowment for Youth Committee’s Putting It Back Program

An after-school program that aims to provide children who are at risk of failing the California Standardized Testing exams with targeted tutorial services that focus primarily on helping each individual pass, or excel, at the required state assessments. While preparing students to achieve their goals, EYC provides every child with a positive mentoring experience with a tutor.

Tutoring runs concurrently with the S.B. Elementary School District’s academic schedule. Available to Cleveland Elementary, Adelante Charter, and Franklin Elementary students. Grades 2-6. Call 730-3347, or visit eyc4kids.org.

Endowment for Youth Committee’s Science, Mathematics, Engineering, and Technology Program (SMET)

A one-of-a-kind education odyssey that takes learning out of the classroom and into “real life.” SMET is designed to provide enhanced exposure to the physical sciences. Each week, middle school-aged students explore the world of science and technology, as well as all of the founding principles that apply. Mathematics, engineering, physics, and chemistry inspire and inform the program’s experiments, lesson plans, and field excursions.

Tue., 2:30-5:30pm. Meets at Twelve35 Teen Ctr., 1232 Chapala St. Grades 6-8. Call 730-3347, or visit eyc4kids.org.

Winter Break Camps

Art from the Heart Winter Camps

Parents can stay with younger children or drop off older ones.

• Christmas Cookie Camp: Children stir up fun with music, stories, creativity, and cookies they can take home.

• Polka Dotted Animal Art: Children will create their favorite polka dotted animals. Movement and music will be part of memory-making activities, art projects, and games.

Mon.-Thu., 9:15am-12:15pm. Christmas Cookie Camp: Dec. 20-23; Polka Dotted Animal Art: Dec. 27-30. MacKenzie Park Adult Bldg., 3111 State St. $120 registration, plus $50 materials fee. 6 months-8 years.] Call instructor Karen Putnam at 966-9078 for more info, or register online at sbparksandrecreation.com.

The Great Escape Winter Drop-in Program

Trained and certified staff will work with your child on a variety of activities, including holiday games, crafts, and walking field trips. This program offers the flexibility for your child to come and go according to your needs over the holidays.

Full and partial day care available Tue.-Fri., Dec. 21-24, and Tue.-Thu., Dec. 28-30. McKinley School, 350 Loma Alta like last year?] $44/day, $175/four-day week, or $314/all 7 days; preregistration requested. Grades 1-6. Call 451-2034, or register online at sbparksandrecreation.com.

Lego Holiday Workshop

Create a fun, festive holiday village, including a motorized Polar Express, during this one-day workshop. Parents drop off their engineer and return to view their fabulous creation and enjoy holiday goodies.

Ages 5-7: Mon., Dec. 20, 1-4pm; ages 8-12: Tue., Dec. 21, 1-4pm. MacKenzie Park Adult Bldg., 3111 State St. $50. Call 451-2034, or register online at sbparksandrecreation.com.

Nature Adventures Winter Camps

Discover the wonders of the natural world at the Museum of Natural History and the Sea Center! Imagine being a scientist, astronaut, or an oceanographer, explore the ocean floor, take a virtual flight to outer space, and more. Small class sizes, with a staff-to-camper ratio averaging 3:15.

Mon.-Thu., 9am-3pm. Two sessions: Dec. 20-23 and Dec. 27-30. S.B. Museum of Natural History, 2559 Puesta del Sol. $235/members; $250/nonmembers (extended day care available for an additional fee). Ages 4-12. Call 682-4711 x171, or visit sbnature.org/education.

S.B. YMCA Winter Camp

The YMCA offers care during local schools’ winter break schedules. Winter Camp activities include arts and crafts, games, swimming, kids’ gym, character development, and more!

Mon.-Thu., 7:30am-6pm. Two sessions: Dec. 20-23 and Dec. 30. Meets at Hope Elementary School, 3970 La Colina Rd., and Monte Vista Elementary School, 730 N. Hope Ave. $125. Grades K-6. Call 687-7720 x266, or email andrea.opfer@ciymca.org.