HMSC Teen Programs

Step into ancient history with a 3,000-year-old ball game played by the Olmec, Maya, and Aztec. This intense team sport, which used a heavy rubber ball, was played in stone ballcourts and players could only hit the ball with their hips—no hands or feet! The game had deep meaning, symbolizing the movement of the sun across the sky. In this workshop, you’ll learn the history and try your hand (actually hip) at the game!

This class is for teens ages 13–18

Discover the atlatl, a powerful spear-thrower used by the Aztecs! With an atlatl, warriors could launch darts faster and farther than by hand alone. Darts were tipped with sharp obsidian or bone that could pierce tough Spanish leather armor. Some atlatls were beautifully decorated and gifted to nobles, while others were plain and used by warriors. Today, people still make and use atlatls to explore ancient technology. Try this ancient skill yourself and experience history in action!

This class is for teens ages 13–18

IMPORTANT NOTE: 

This workshop will take place at Voke Park in Chelsea, MA

540 Washington Ave, Chelsea, MA 02150

Travel back in time and explore some of the world’s oldest board games from the ancient Near East! In this interactive workshop, you'll learn the origins of games like senet, mancala, the Royal Game of Ur, and al-qirkat. Play, win, and learn how strategy and luck have connected people for thousands of years. Whether you love history, puzzles, or friendly competition, this workshop is for you. Come ready to play, learn, and experience ancient fun that still inspires today!

This class is for teens ages 13–18