The Rec Academy Difference
We're not babysitters with cool toys. We're youth development professionals who use fun as a tool for growth.
More Than Just Fun
Every activity includes guided debriefs that develop communication, problem-solving & more.
Safe Enviroment
1:14 average staff-to-participant ratio with clear safety protocols and emergency procedures.
Trained Staff
Background-checked, CPR/First Aid certified instructors who know how manage groups.
Activities Change Often
We keep kids engaged by rotating through different games & challenges every 30-60 mins.
Want to learn more about our approach?
Learning happens best when there's, at minimum, a possibility of success.
We use teamwork as a way to teach kids about communication, valuing perspectives & so much more!
We build spaces where creativity thrives through guided, hands-on experiences.
After activity discussions to help foster growth.
Tons of high engagement activities that keep kids entertained and active.
Epic adventures in a structured environment? Yes please.
Perfect for kids interested in learning the basics or improving existing skills!
No more getting trampled by the big kids or waiting on the little kids to get through an activity. We prioritize the experience.
A Growth Mindset
The Growth Mindset is the belief that abilities can be developed through effort and learning — the opposite of thinking you're either "good at something" or you're not.
We believe in the power of "yet." When a child says "I can't do this," we add "yet" to the end. This simple shift changes everything.
This mindset creates upward spirals — each small challenge overcome builds confidence for the next one. A shy kid who speaks up once is more likely to do it again. A frustrated player who learns to take a breath discovers they can handle bigger setbacks.
How it works
A shy kid gets an opportunity to speak up once → more likely to do it again
A frustrated player takes a breath → discovers they can handle bigger setbacks
A team that talks through issues → participants take away new strategies to resolve conflicts
These aren't just feel-good moments — they're building blocks that compound over time, creating momentum that carries into school, friendships, and beyond.
Growth Mindset = Perseverance, Grit & Resilience
Our Proven Method
Every session follows a structured approach that turns casual play into meaningful learning.
Set Clear Expectations
Every session starts with clarity. Kids know what's expected because confusion kills confidence. When everyone understands the game, they can focus on playing it well.
Learn from Challenges
Here's what makes us different: we don't rescue kids from struggle. When someone gets frustrated or teams clash, that's our classroom. We guide them through it, teaching life skills for real situations.
Identify Teachable Moments
We listen before we lead. Kids have great ideas, and when we use them, they're more invested in the outcome. We embrace opportunities to model empathy and reinforce values.
Get Participant Feedback
After each activity, we pause and reflect. We ask "What went well?" "What could we improve?" and "How did we show up for each other?" This process turns fun into fuel for real development.
Frontload → Experience → Debrief → Repeat
The cycle that runs multiple times throughout every single session we facilitate.
A Simple Process - With A Powerful Impact
Allowing kids to walk away with
Don't Just Take Our Word For It
Hear from families and organizations who've experienced the difference.
“My daughter loved Domino Mega Builders! She came home and fully explained what a Rube Goldberg machine is—then built one across our living room. I’d say she learned a lot!”
Mellisa T.
Ladue Parent
“Foam Tipped Archery was a hit with my son. The instructors made safety fun, and he couldn’t wait to show off his new skills each week. We’ll definitely sign up again!”
James L.
Mehlville Parent
“My kids had a blast at Kickball Club! The instructors added fun new twists to the game every session, and the kids absolutely loved it. It kept them active and excited to come back.”
Erica S.
Lindbergh Parent
Multi-Week Enrichment Clubs
Where students learn how to better interact with their peers while doing things they love!
Choose Your Adventure
From active play to E-Sports, to STEM, we have the perfect club for every kid. All programs include trained staff, age-appropriate activities, and tons of fun!
Ga Ga Ball
Want a club they can't get enough of?
Use our Giant inflatable pit or get a discount by using your facility's existing pit. This program features multiple game modes!
Minecrafter's Guild
E-Sports Enrichment
Kids learn teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving through Minecraft. We provide Chromebooks or kids can bring their own!
RC Racing 101
Have a need for speed?
Learn to be a pilot, design courses, race friends, and practice teamwork. Half drone racing, RC Car racing.
Trading Card Clubs
Pokemon, Yu-GI-Oh, & More!
Pokémon, YU-GI-OH, & more! Participants work on reading, math and more! A hit at every location we've held them at!
Domino Mega Builders
Calling all future NBA stars!
Create and topple awesome designs, speed walls, and more in this hands on club!
Foam Tipped Archery
The perfect intro to archery club.
Unleash your inner Robin Hood in this one-of-a-kind program guaranteed to please. With RC Car targets & more!
Comic Book Club
Create an epic story of your own!
Kids explore storytelling and illustration, create their own characters and comics, and learn about narrative and visual design.
Kickball Club
We're bringing back a classic.
Are you a Kickball Champion? Learn and practice the skills you need to dominate at recess.
Dodgeball Club
Move, Grove, Jump, & Shake!
Kids build coordination, & quick thinking as they play high-energy dodgeball games. They’ll practice throwing, dodging, and catching skills in a safe, supportive setting.
Chess Club
Strategy at its finest.
Kids learn strategy, critical thinking, and problem-solving through chess. They'll master tactics, study classic games, and compete in friendly matches.
9 Square In The Air
Like 4-Square but on stilts.
The game everyone's obsessed with. A high-energy, fast-paced group game that builds reaction time, sportsmanship, and social skills.
Cadet Care
A combo of all our enrichment clubs
Cadet Care is a full-service school program that replaces regular care with enrichment, sports clinics & more!
Frequently Asked Questions
What ages are your enrichment clubs for?
We serve children ages 5-12, grouped within 3-year age brackets so activities are developmentally appropriate.
How many days per week can my child attend?
Our camps run 4-5 days a week for either a 3- or 7-hour period.
What discounts do you offer?
We love to help families save! We offer early bird, sibling, and multi-purchase discounts. Please note that specific offers vary by location depending on our local partner agreements.
When do registrations open?
Registration open dates vary based on several factors. However, we will always open a minimum of 60 days prior tot the start date of a session and stop taking registrations 10 days prior to the start date.
Can I change my registration?
Yes, we allo you to switch your registrations or retain a credit on file with us if you're unable to attend and provide us with at least 48 hours notice.
What activities do kids do during clubs?
While daily activities vary based on your child's specific program, our core approach ensures they are always building essential soft skills through collaborative, peer-to-peer engagement.
Are your staff background-checked?
Yes. All staff undergo background checks, hold CPR/First Aid certification, and complete mandated reporter training. We maintain a 1:14 staff-to-child ratio.
What is your refund policy?
Refunds depend on when you cancel. Programs require a nonrefundable deposit (e.g., $15–$35 per participant depending on program type). For other programs:
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30+ days in advance: 100% refund minus deposit
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15–30 days in advance: 50% refund
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14 days or less: 50% credit toward a future program or transfer to another week
No refunds for dismissals due to behavior. If you have quality concerns, contact us right away—we'll work to resolve it.
Are programs available at my school?
If enrichment clubs are available at your school, you will be emailed a link to your location's registration page by school admin.