Lifelong Learning
Adult lifelong learning topics continue to expand with quality instructors and at an affordable price. Pick up a current copy of the activity guide at any Westminster recreation center to see the entire schedule of adult programs and activities.
Early registration is encouraged for the following reasons:
- Class sizes are small for optimal learning and many classes fill quickly.
- Instructors need time to ready supplies and prepare to teach a quality class.
- If a class has low enrollment, it may be canceled. Your enrollment could be the one that allows the class to run.
Please call 303-658-2294 for more information on adult lifelong learning opportunities and adult special events.
Register Now
Inquiring Minds Continuing Education Ages 18+
General Classes
Cut the Cord
Are you tired of getting ripped off by internet providers and unsatisfied with their service or entertainment offerings? If so it may be time to Cut the Cord. Please join us for a two-hour presentation on how to get rid of that expensive cable bill and enjoy your TV viewing experience more. We will cover how to make the switch including equipment needed, available entertainment options, cost, and advantages of streaming.
W Dec 13 2:15-4:15 p.m. $4/$6 MAC 2412938-A
W Feb 14 2:30-4:30 p.m. $4/$6 MAC 2412938-B
T Apr 23 5:45-7:45 p.m. $4/$6 MAC 2412938-C
Gardening
Planning Your Vegetable Garden
Like with any project, good planning is essential to ensure a bountiful harvest down the road. Learn about soil, planting for sun and shade, and how to choose the right type of vegetables for your location in this introductory class.
T Feb 20 6-7 p.m. $13/$15 MAC 2412935-A
Starting Vegetables from Seed
Starting your vegetables from seeds indoors is an exciting way to begin the gardening season. Learn all about equipment and lighting needs, when and how to start seeds, and how to harden off your seedlings before they go into the ground.
T Mar 5 6-7 p.m. $13/$15 MAC 2412936-A
Composting 101
Composting is a great way to recycle your yard and kitchen waste. Learn about types of containers for composting, what materials to use, how to care for your compost once it’s started, and much more composting information.
T Apr 30 6-7 p.m. $13/$15 MAC 2412937-A
Cooking
Chocolate Cookery
For many of us, the fact that chocolate may improve our health only reinforces our love for it. Learn how to prepare delicious (yet healthy) dishes using chocolate. Recipes and samples will be provided!
T Feb 6 6-7 p.m. $17/$19 MAC 2412932-A
Fun Family Meals
Preparing and eating meals together as a family can provide more than just nutrition. Learn how to prepare a variety of quick and easy meals that the whole family can participate in cooking and everyone will enjoy eating.
T Mar 26 6-7 p.m. $17/$19 MAC 2412933-A
Discover Great Grains
There are many fun and exciting grain alternatives to wheat! Learn about a variety of “exotic” grains, their nutritional benefits, and how to prepare them. You’ll have the opportunity to taste grains such as quinoa, millet, and barley.
T Apr 16 6-7 p.m. $17/$19 MAC 2412934-A
Emergency Preparation Classes
Heartsaver CPR/AED - Certification
This course trains individuals and workplaces in the lifesaving skills of CPR and how to use an AED. The course is video-based with lots of hands-on practice. Attendees must be 12 years or older for certification.
Sa Feb 17 8-11 a.m. $65 PSC 2412974-A
Sa Apr 20 8-11 a.m. $65 PSC 2412974-B
Heartsaver CPR/AED/First Aid - Certification
This course trains individuals and workplaces in the lifesaving skills of first aid, CPR, and how to use an AED. The course is video-based with lots of hands-on practice. Please feel free to bring snacks. Attendees must be 12 years or older for certification.
Sa Jan 20 8 a.m.-1 p.m. $75 PSC 2412975-A
Sa Mar 16 8 a.m.-1 p.m. $75 PSC 2412975-B
Pet Nutrition
Feeding Your Diabetic Pet
While there is no “one-diet-fits-all” for your diabetic dog or cat, there are many diet changes that can be helpful. Learn diet strategies you can use to help maintain their glucose levels.
T Jan 23 6-7 p.m. $17/$19 MAC 2412930-A
Help for Pudgy Pets
While a roly-poly cat or dog may be cute, being overweight or obese can increase their risk of diseases like diabetes or put unnecessary stress on their joints (just like for humans). Learn diet strategies you can use to help your cat or dog maintain a healthy weight.
T Mar 19 6-7 p.m. $13/$15 MAC 2412931-A
Health, Fitness & Wellness
Functional Fitness Sessions
If you want guidance in how to feel healthier and more vital, Functional Fitness Sessions are for you. Enhance your ability to perform activities of daily living by improving balance, flexibility, and mobility; reducing the risk of falls;
maintaining bone density; and growing stronger. One-on-one sessions are held at The MAC with Laura Brieser-Smith, a Certified Exercise Physiologist. Call The MAC at 303-426-4310 to schedule. AGES: 55+ Fee: $42 per 1-hour session; $110 for three sessions.
Health & Wellness Coaching Sessions
Making lasting changes in health habits can be challenging. Having someone support and guide you can be helpful. During a Health and Wellness Coaching session, you will work with a health professional to gain knowledge and develop strategies to create the healthy lifestyle that you desire. Call The MAC at 303-426-4310 to schedule. FEE: $42 per 1-hour session; $110 for three sessions
Seminars
Banish Belly Fat
It’s not just that we don’t like the way it looks that makes us want to get rid of it, but belly fat is also likely to cause heart disease and diabetes. Learn why we tend to develop belly fat and tips for changing your diet and exercise program to banish it.
M Jan 22 1:30-2:30 p.m. $13/$15 MAC 2412922-A
Meditation 101
Sitting quietly without distractions and breathing is not part of many people’s regular routine, but doing so can have many benefits. Learn what these benefits are, different types of mediation, and simple techniques you can use to get started.
W Jan 31 1:30-2:30 p.m. $13/$15 MAC 2412923-A
Chrononutrition: Eating with Your Internal Clock
We know that what we eat is important, but when you eat your meals also matters. Learn about the connection between your biological circadian rhythms, timing of food intake, and the effects this has on your body weight and overall health.
T Feb 13 6-7 p.m. $13/$15 MAC 2412924-A
Benefits of Lifting Heavy
Weights We are often hesitant to lift heavy weights, but doing so can create benefits of improving functional performance as we age. Learn more about the benefits, determining how much weight to lift, and proper form to prevent injury.
M Feb 26 1:30-2:30 p.m. $13/$15 MAC 2412925-A
The Latest on Collagen
Collagen is our body’s most abundant protein. Some research studies show that it may improve bone and joint health; skin, hair, and nail quality; and more. Learn more about what collagen is and whether these benefits are true or just the latest fad.
M Mar 4 1:30-2:30 p.m. $13/$15 MAC 2412926-A
Stop Shoulder Pain
Does a painful shoulder limit your ability to do even simple tasks? Discover ways to stretch and strengthen the muscles of the shoulders, upper back, and chest to increase shoulder mobility. Wear comfortable clothes for doing exercise.
M Mar 18 1:30-2:30 p.m. $13/$15 MAC 2412927-A
Healthy Biohacking
Biohacking is about altering one’s body with various lifestyle interventions to optimize health and well-being, longevity, aesthetics, and/or performance. Learn the safety and effectiveness of many popular biohacking techniques including nutrition, supplements, wearable devices, and more.
T Apr 9 6-7 p.m. $13/$15 MAC 2412928-A
Feel Better Without Drugs
There are non-drug treatments for many of the health problems from which we suffer. While lifestyle changes may not be as easy as popping a pill, they also do not have the unpleasant side effects of many medications. Learn how you can incorporate a variety of non-drug treatments into your life.
M Apr 22 1:30-2:30 p.m. $13/$15 MAC 2412929-A
Music Classes Ages: 13+
The “AMAZING” Guitar Class
Students need to bring their own guitar. A learning packet is included. QUESTIONS? Or for low-cost guitar rentals, call Henry at 720-290-5854.
Beginning Guitar
Discover how easy it is to play fun songs. Create your own strumming rhythms and fingerpicking patterns. Improvise playing a melody in the first class. Read staff notation. Understand the benefits of effective posture.
W Jan 10-Feb 7 6:30-7:30 p.m. $70 WSC 2411953-A
W Feb 14-Mar 13 6:30-7:30 p.m. $70 WSC 2411953-B
W Mar 27-Apr 24 6:30-7:30 p.m. $70 WSC 2411953-C
Continuing Guitar
Discover the EDCAGE fretboard layout, chord symbol notations, playing “by ear”, the easier way to play using barre chords, blues articulations like hammer/tap/pull, and string bending.
W Jan 10-Feb 7 7:30-8:30 p.m. $70 WSC 2411954-A
W Feb 14-Mar 13 7:30-8:30 p.m. $70 WSC 2411954-B
W Mar 27-Apr 24 7:30-8:30 p.m. $70 WSC 2411954-C
The “AMAZING” Ukulele Class
A learning packet is included. Students need to bring their own ukulele. QUESTIONS? Call Henry at 720-290-5854.
Afternoon Ukulele Class For All Levels
Th Jan 11-Feb 8 3-4 p.m. $70 MAC 2412962-A
Th Feb 15-Mar 14 3-4 p.m. $70 MAC 2412962-B
Th Mar 28- Apr 25 3-4 p.m. $70 MAC 2412962-C
Beginning Ukulele
Learn to play easy fun songs and the basic chords you’ll need. Understand rhythmic strumming patterns and how to create your own. Playing a scale lets you improvise a melody in the first class. Awareness of good posture makes it so much easier to play.
Th Jan 11-Feb 8 5:45-6:45 p.m. $70 MAC 2412960-A
Th Feb 15-Mar 14 5:45-6:45 p.m. $70 MAC 2412960-B
Th Mar 28-Apr 25 5:45-6:45 p.m. $70 MAC 2412960-C
Continuing Ukulele
Extend your playing skills using the five positions of the same chord, reading notations, and arranging chords to fit the melody to create richer sounds.
Th Jan 11-Feb 8 6:45-7:45 p.m. $70 MAC 2412961-A
Th Feb 15-Mar 14 6:45-7:45 p.m. $70 MAC 2412961-B
Th Mar 28-Apr 25 6:45-7:45 p.m. $70 MAC 2412961-C
Westminster Ukulele Community
All levels are invited to play together and learn from each other. Bring your ukulele, paper copies of songs to share, and a music stand and tuner if available. Ages 12 and under must be with an adult. No registration necessary. FEE: Daily admission or FREE for SFC, MAC, SilverSneakers®, Renew Active®, PRIME®, One Pass®, and One Pass Commercial® members.
T Jan 16, Feb 20, Mar 19, Apr 16 6:30-7:45 p.m. MAC
The “AMAZING” Piano/Keyboard Class *NO CLASS: Mar 18
Students need to bring their own keyboard (61 keys minimum). A learning packet is included. QUESTIONS? Call Henry at 720-290-5854.
Beginning Piano/Keyboard
Learn to play fun melodies, and harmonies to accompany them, with easy songs. Play both hands together, using a scale to improvise a melody in the first class. Learn good posture, which makes it so much easier to play.
M Jan 22-Feb 12 6:30-7:30 p.m. $56 WSC 2411951-A
*M Feb 26-Apr 1 6:30-7:30 p.m. $70 WSC 2411951-B
M Apr 8-29 6:30-7:30 p.m. $56 WSC 2411951-C
Continuing Piano/Keyboard
Learn how to create better-sounding music with chord extensions and melodic devices. Discover an easier way to read staff, chord symbols, and rhythmic notations.
M Jan 22-Feb 12 7:30-8:30 p.m. $56 WSC 2411952-A
*M Feb 26-Apr 1 7:30-8:30 p.m. $70 WSC 2411952-B
M Apr 8-29 7:30-8:30 p.m. $56 WSC 2411952-C
Private Music Instrument Lessons
All ages and levels are welcome. Piano, guitar, ukulele, flute, clarinet, saxophone, half or full-hour weekly times slots to be arranged.
FEE: $40 per 1/2 hour or $60 per hour 4-PACK (30 mins): $144 | 4-PACK (60 mins): $216
QUESTIONS? Call instructor at 720-290-5854 TO REGISTER: Call 303-426-4310
M 3-6 p.m. WSC
W 3-6 p.m. WSC
Th 4-5:30 p.m. MAC
Dance Classes Ages: 18+
Drop-in Dance
No partner or experience is needed. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for dancing. Fee: Daily admission fee applies or FREE for pass holders, SilverSneakers®, Renew Active®, PRIME®, One Pass®, and One Pass Commercial® Members.
Line Dance
Learn a variety of popular line dances. No partner or experience is needed. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for dancing. This ongoing class meets every Monday. FEE: Daily admission fee applies or FREE for pass holders, SilverSneakers®, Renew Active®, PRIME®, One Pass®, and One Pass Commercial® Members. *NO CLASS:
M Jan 8-Apr 29 8-9 a.m. Improver MAC
M Jan 8-Apr 29 9-10 a.m. Beginner MAC
T Jan 9-Apr 30 1:15-2:45 p.m. Intermediate WV
W Jan 3-May 1 1-2 p.m. Intermediate MAC
Th Jan 4-May 2 5:30-6:30 p.m. Beginner MAC
F Jan 5-Mar 29 8:30-10 a.m. Intermediate MAC
F Apr 5-May 1 8-10 a.m. Intermediate MAC
Tap Class
Not sure if you’re ready for a tap class? Come explore the 5 basic sounds of tap, the building blocks of tap sounds, body awareness, and rhythms. Shoes are not required but welcome! FEE: Daily admission or FREE for MAC, Swim & Fitness Center, SilverSneakers®, Renew Active®, PRIME®, One Pass®, and One Pass Commercial® members.
T Jan 9-Apr 30 10:30-11:30 a.m. Beginner Steps MAC
Couples Dance Classes
Learn a variety of ballroom dance moves and patterns. No experience is necessary. Beginners learn basic steps while more experienced dancers refine their skills. A partner is required and must register individually. Register three working days in advance of the class start date.
Tango
T Jan 9-30 6-7 p.m. $45 MAC 2412966-A
T Feb 6-27 6-7 p.m. $45 MAC 2412966-B
Foxtrot
T Mar 5-26 6-7 p.m. $45 MAC 2412967-A
T Apr 2-30 6-7 p.m. $56 MAC 2412967-B
Sa Jan 20-Feb 17 3-4 p.m. $56 WV 2417966-A
Tango & Cha Cha
Sa Mar 30-Apr 27 3-4 p.m. $56 WV 2417968-A
Partner Optional Ballroom
Learn a variety of ballroom dance moves and patterns. No experience is necessary. A partner is NOT required. This class is accessible to all levels and abilities. Register three working days in advance of class start date.
Tango
Th Jan 11-Feb 1 10:30-11:30 a.m. $45 MAC 2412968-A
Th Feb 8-29 10:30-11:30 a.m. $45 MAC 2412968-B
Foxtrot
Th Mar 7-28 10:30-11:30 a.m. $45 MAC 2412969-A
Th Apr 4-May 2 10:30-11:30 a.m. $56 MAC 2412969-B
Adult Ballet Beginner
Perfect for an introduction to ballet or a return after years away! The class follows a traditional ballet structure to build balance and coordination skills. AGES: 18+ PUNCH CARD OPTION: $12/$14 per class NO CLASS: March 18-23 *RECITAL CLASS
*M Jan 8-Apr 15 7:30-8:30 p.m. $180/$210 CPRC 2413778-1A
M Apr 22-May 20 7:30-8:30 p.m. $60/$72 CPRC 2413778-2A
*F Jan 12-Apr 19 12:30-1:30 p.m. $180/$210 CPRC 2413778-1B
F Apr 26-May 24 12:30-1:30 p.m. $60/$72 CPRC 2413778-2B
Adult Jazz/Hip Hop
An upbeat and technical style of dance requiring precision, strength, and rhythm. Recommended for those who want to add personal style and expression to dancing! AGES: 18+ PUNCH CARD OPTION: $12/$14 per class NO CLASS: March 18-23 *RECITAL CLASS
*Th Jan 11-Apr 18 6:30-7:30 p.m. $180/$210 CPRC 2413777-1A
Th Apr 25-May 23 6:30-7:30 p.m. $60/$72 CPRC 2413777-2A
Tap Class
Brush up on your skills and learn more intricate steps. Previous tap experience is helpful and tap shoes are required.
Beginning Tap
W Jan 10-31 11:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m. $45 MAC 2412963-A
W Feb 7-28 11:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m. $45 MAC 2412963-B
W Mar 6-27 11:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m. $45 MAC 2412963-C
W Apr 3-May 1 9:15-10:15 a.m. $56 MAC 2412963-D
IntermediateTap
T Jan 9-30 11:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m. $45 MAC 2412964-A
T Feb 6-27 11:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m. $45 MAC 2412964-B
T Mar 5-26 11:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m. $45 MAC 2412964-C
T Apr 2-30 11:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m. $56 MAC 2412964-D
AdvancedTap
Th Jan 11-Feb 1 2:15-3:15 p.m. $45 MAC 2412965-A
Th Feb 8-29 2:15-3:15 p.m. $45 MAC 2412965-B
Th Mar 7-28 2:15-3:15 p.m. $45 MAC 2412965-C
Th Apr 4-May 2 9:15-10:15 a.m. $56 MAC 2412965-D
Private Dance Lessons
Take a private/semi-private dance lesson and work on your choice of dance steps or learn a dance for your wedding or other event. QUESTIONS: Call 303-658-2294 to schedule. $60/hr
Benefits
The Westminster Recreation Department offers a wide range of educational seminars, classes, and special events for adult learning, to entertain, and enrich the lives of adults in the Westminster community.
Benefits of Participation in adult lifelong learning programs:
- opens the mind and gives new perspectives
- opportunity to make new friends and establish valuable relationships
- stay on top of changing technology
- increases knowledge base on wellness topics
- feel more connected to the Westminster community