Sound Scholars™ 2026 Fall Term – Otter Pod (SHELTON – IN PERSON)

About Sound Scholars at the Shelton Family YMCA:

Great Bend Center for Music’s Sound Scholars™ is a joyful, research-based early learning program that uses music to build kindergarten readiness, confidence, creativity, and the social-emotional skills children need for long-term success in school and life. Through singing, movement, rhythm games, storytelling, and creative play, children develop early literacy, numeracy, self-regulation, listening, and cooperation—all while discovering the joy of making music together.

By combining exceptional music education and water confidence into one free afternoon experience, Sound Scholars at the Shelton Family YMCA helps children grow intellectually, socially, emotionally, physically, and creatively before they ever step into kindergarten.

This special collaboration with the Shelton Family YMCA combines two outstanding programs into one afternoon experience. Every registration includes both a 30-minute Sound Scholars music class and a YMCA swim lesson immediately afterward—at no cost to participating families. Families register through Great Bend Center for Music, and children do not need to be YMCA members to participate.

Otter Pod (Ages 2–5):

Otter Pod is designed for children ages 2–5 and introduces young learners to the wonderful discovery that they are already musicians. Through songs, movement, rhythm instruments, musical games, imaginative play, and age-appropriate creative activities, children learn to find and feel the beat, recognize high and low sounds, explore fast and slow tempos, and express themselves confidently through music.

Along the way, they’ll build friendships, strengthen language and motor skills, develop independence and self-confidence, and create a strong foundation for future learning—all while having an incredible amount of fun.

Classes meet Monday through Friday during the 10-week Fall Term, with each daily session including:

• 30-minute Sound Scholars™ music class
• YMCA swim lesson immediately following
• No cost to participating families

Families may register for either of two daily sessions:

• 1:00 PM
• 2:00 PM

Fall Term: September 14 – November 13, 2026