Explore Digital Arts at Mission Valley YMCA Digital Studio
Mission Valley YMCA Digital Studio at Mission Valley YMCA offers a learning environment outfitted with high-tech tools for Esports, programming/coding, LEGO robotics, 3D design and more.
Mission Valley YMCA Digital Studio provides a safe, out-of-school learning opportunity for students from under-resourced communities. The Digital Studio is the first of its kind in San Diego. It serves as an after-school outlet where local youth can tap into their passions and develop skills.
The studio features professional-quality equipment, including 20 computers — loaded with the latest programming and 3D design software and fast gaming PCs.
BENEFITS OF A PLAY PASS MEMBERSHIP
This membership will allow participants ages 8-17 to use any open station freely during our open hours. Open hours are Monday-Friday from 4:00pm-7:30pm.
Some perks of the membership are:
- Three 2-hour visits per month
- One free class per visit
- Member rates on Digital Studio programs
- Open space for gaming, socializing and school/work
- More to come in the future!
GAMING & FUN
Looking for a fun and inviting social environment to spend your free time? The Mission Valley YMCA’s newly renovated digital studio offers access to 20 PC or gaming stations with high-speed internet. As a member, you will also receive discounts on our programs, gaming tournaments, leagues, birthday parties and more.
Enjoy playing your favorite games on 20 PCs or one of our Nintendo Switches, including Super Smash Bros, Overwatch, Fortnite, Rocket League, Minecraft, League of Legends and many more!
CURRENT OFFERINGS
Mission Valley Y’s Digital Studio provides a safe and supervised digital gaming opportunity for students and is the first of its kind at the Y in San Diego. It serves as an after-school outlet where youth can tap into their passions and develop technology skills in a learning environment outfitted with high-tech tools for designing and building robots, 3D printed creations, gaming, exploring the world of making and more. Ages range from 6-17.
Programs and offerings are subject to change month to month. Please check out our calendar to see what programs are offered this month!
MINECRAFT AND ESPORTS
SEE PROGRAMS (CLICK TO EXPAND)
Minecraft: Builders
Ages 6-11
Where creativity and teamwork come to life! Each week, kids dive into a themed build — from theme parks and castles to farms — exploring different aspects of the Minecraft universe while sharpening their building skills and making new friends. It’s perfect for both beginners and those with Minecraft experience.
Minecraft: Modded
Ages 8-14
This exciting program introduces young gamers to the world of modded Minecraft, where they’ll explore a variety of mods while working on guided builds tailored to each modded environment. It’s ideal for kids with some Minecraft experience.
Super Smash Bros League
Ages 6-14
Where fun meets friendly competition! Designed for gamers ages 6-14, this league provides an exciting space for players to showcase their skills, make new friends and dive into the action-packed world of Super Smash Bros. Each participant can look forward to monthly tournaments!
Roblox
Ages 6-14
Children dive into the vibrant world of Roblox, sharpening their teamwork and creativity through exciting esports challenges. With fun tournaments and collaborative projects, they’ll build friendships while mastering game strategies and unleashing their imaginations.
Fortnite
Ages 8-16
Children can team up to sharpen their gaming skills and strategize in an exciting esports environment. Participants will develop teamwork, problem-solving skills and sportsmanship while competing in friendly tournaments and creative build challenges.
DIGITAL DESIGN
SEE DIGITAL DESIGN PROGRAMS (CLICK TO EXPAND)
3D Design TinkerCAD
Ages 8-14
This program introduces young creators to Tinkercad, an easy-to-use online tool that lets them design and build their own 3D models. Throughout several sessions, participants will unleash their creativity and bring their ideas to life in a fun, engaging environment. At the end of the month, we’ll print out their designs!
Character Design
Ages 8-14
This program invites kids to bring their unique characters to life through fun, engaging concepts. Each month, participants will receive a different prompt designed to spark creativity and encourage self-expression. If a child has a character they want to develop, we can provide the time and support they need. Using drawing pads and the Krita program, children will bring their creations to life.
PROGRAMMING AND CODING
SEE PROGRAMMING AND CODING PROGRAMS (CLICK TO EXPAND)
LEGO WeDo
Ages 6-11
This program blends creativity and technology as participants build and program using LEGO WeDo kits. Kids will take on exciting projects that promote problem-solving, teamwork and engineering skills, making it a great introduction to creativity and early programming concepts!
Python
Ages 10-16
This engaging program introduces kids to Python, one of today’s most popular programming languages. Through fun, interactive projects, participants will learn coding fundamentals while building problem-solving skills and creativity.
Arduino
Ages 10-16
This hands-on program introduces kids to Arduino, an open-source electronics platform. Through exciting projects, participants will explore circuits, programming and problem-solving while bringing their creative ideas to life.
LEARNING CLUBS
SEE LEARNING CLUBS (CLICK TO EXPAND)
Homework Help
Here, kids receive personalized assistance to tackle their assignments and enhance their understanding! With a team of friendly mentors, students will gain confidence and learn effective study skills while completing their homework in a supportive environment. This program focuses specifically on helping children finish their homework, rather than providing tutoring.
Typing Club
A club where kids can enhance their keyboard skills through exciting and interactive typing games! As they play, participants will improve their speed and accuracy while gaining confidence in their typing abilities, all within a supportive and lively environment.
ADULT PROGRAMS
SEE ADULT PROGRAMS (CLICK TO EXPAND)
Magic the Gathering
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a curious newcomer, this is the perfect chance to sharpen your skills, make new friends and immerse yourself in thrilling matches.
Dungeons & Dragons
Calling all adventurers! This program features immersive storytelling, strategic battles, and unforgettable camaraderie. Whether you’re a seasoned campaigner or a newcomer, everyone is welcome to explore fantastical realms and forge legendary tales!
GAMING LEAGUES
Esports Leagues are video game competitions for individuals and teams that take place online. As with all YMCA leagues, YMCA esports will encourage and promote healthy kids, families and communities by placing a priority on involvement and healthy competition rather than rivalry. Esports leagues encourage team building, individual development and participation over winning as well as building a positive self-image and mutual respect for others. We also offer leagues for kids and adults!
GAMING TOURNAMENTS
Are you ready to battle it out in the ultimate gaming showdown? Join us at the Digital Studio for our Super Smash Bros Tournament! Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just looking to have some fun, this tournament is perfect for players of all skill levels. Bring your friends, show off your skills, and compete for the title of Smash Champion!
We offer tournaments for adults and kids!
Contact Us
For more information about the digital studio and its programming contact:
Contact Digital Studio Coordinator, Thomas Beamon at tbeamon@ymcasd.org.