There’s nowhere like New York City when it comes to amazing children’s classes. The city’s possibilities for afterschool, weekend, and camp programs are endless. Some establishments specialize in certain sports or arts or academic subjects, others offer an all-in-one variety of choices. But the common factor is that they all know how to engage kids, be it a movement class, language program, or soccer clinic.
14th Street Y
This community center located on the East Side in Gramercy offers a number of programs for families with kids of all ages. For babies and toddlers, classes are offered in movement, art, and music. Ages 3-12 can sign up for sports like baseball and soccer or for dance like ballet and capoeira. There are also children’s swim, tumbling, and gymnastics classes as well as courses for children with special needs. 14streety.org
74th St. MAGIC
74th St. MAGIC offers one of NYC’s most comprehensive enrichment programs, with a wide array of classes in its Mini MAP program (early preschool enrichment), MAP program (preschool alternative classes), and MAGIC program (music, art, gymnastics, and cooking classes). Sharing a building with Epiphany Community Nursery School, children will find state-of-the-art classrooms, a baby- and a fully-equipped gym as well as an outdoor rooftop playground. 74magic.com
92Y
This special gem on the Upper East Side offers so much for families and kids of all ages, including a nursery school, Wonderplay early childhood programs, and a parenting center. Afterschool classes in dance, art, music, aquatics, and sports are offered for all ages. There’s also a variety of family performances and holiday celebrations throughout the year, as well as a rooftop playground and an indoor GymMaze. 92Y.org
ABC Do-Re-ME!
Music and movement classes for infants and children up to 6 years old are offered in several locations throughout Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Astoria, Queens. Programs include: the drop-in Musical Playdate with guitar playing and children’s singing teachers; Musical Stories that feature animal songs, children’s stories, and funny instruments like nose flutes; Classical Playdate introducing kids to classical music; and Boogey Baby, a special dance class for moms and their babies in baby carriers. abcdoremenyc.com
American Museum of Natural History
This iconic museum on the Upper West Side offers classes for kids ages 2 through high school, including special workshops, camps, and institutes. A Science and Nature Program offers weekday morning and afterschool classes that let kids explore artifacts and specimens, live animal habitats, and more. The Early Adventures program, for preschoolers beginning at age 2, offers classes on observing and handling live animals and taking part in science-based art projects. amnh.org
Applause NYC
The home of Rock ‘n’ Roll Babies, Broadway Babies, and Broadway SuperStars, Applause Theatrical Workshops are designed for kids who love to perform, whether they’re newborns or in 12th grade. Theater games, improvisation, musical theater performance, acting, and dancing are offered. Workshops are located on the Upper East Side. applauseny.com
apple seeds
apple seeds is an all-in-one play space for families with children newborn to 5 years. Their flagship location is in the Chelsea/Flatiron neighborhood, and a second location on the Upper West Side opened last year. Both locations feature a state-of-the-art indoor playground with museum-quality exhibits, 100 different children’s classes per week, unique birthday parties, and an award-winning day camp. appleseedsplay.com
The Art Farm In The City
Come enjoy the award-winning petting zoo and a variety of classes and programs. Rocks, Smocks & Animals (adult and me): Meet a new animal each week, sing and dance to the guitar, and do arts and crafts. Animal Care: Spend quality time with live animals while gaining science skills. Mini-Chef: New, yummy recipes every time. M-F drop-ins: Playroom, art, cooking, and animals. Birthday parties: Nine themes ranging from farm animals to mini-chef to mad science. theartfarms.org
ArtXplorers
Kids 3.5-12 years old can sign up for live tours of more than 25 museums and art galleries in NYC with ArtXplorers at Art Muse, located on the Upper East Side. Special themes offered include Egyptian art, African masks, storytelling, Greek gods, shapes and colors, and more. Each tour includes an art project, props, and objects for kids to touch. Little ones younger than 5 must be accompanied by an adult. artxplorers.com
Asphalt Green
Active kids can head to this sports center on the Upper East Side for all their swimming, fitness, and sports needs. All ages can sign up for gymnastics, flag football, martial arts, soccer, baseball, and more. There’s also a Speed, Agility, Quickness (SAQ) Academy for ages 7-14 for improving fitness and core strengthening. asphaltgreen.org
Atlantic Acting School
Home to famous alumni like Felicity Huffman and Jessica Alba, this acting school gets kids and teens started with a variety of afterschool and summer programs. Kids get an introduction to writing, acting, storytelling, and improvisation. Ages pre-K to 6 years create stories through play and improvisational exercises, while older students learn the Practical Aesthetics technique created by David Mamet and William H. Macy. All classes culminate with a performance. atlanticactingschool.org
Baby Fingers
Based on extensive research, Baby Fingers offers a combination of American Sign Language (ASL) instruction, music, games, stories, and dramatic play to promote family communication. ASL is offered to babies and toddlers, while kids 2-6 can take Creative Play and Sign to improve speech and language and further develop literacy skills. For all ages, Sign and Stretch combines sign language with yoga. Available at multiple locations throughout Manhattan. mybabyfingers.com
Ballet Academy East
The Upper East Side’s Ballet Academy East offers ballet classes for all ages, including mother and child classes for the littlest dancers and pre-ballet for ages 3-6. Tap is offered for ages 3.5-6 to develop musicality, while drama classes for ages 4-6 incorporate group improvisations and theater games. There’s also a modern dance class offered for ages 3-5; primary ballet and enrichment classes for ages 6 and up; and ballet, tap, jazz, and zumba for teens. baenyc.com
The Ballet Club
This dance studio on the Upper East Side offers ballet classes and a Children’s Creative Dance Club for all ages. A ballet club class introduces little ones to ballet techniques, classical ballet, and the history of ballet through a special story time. The Creative Dance Club focuses on modern dance, jazz, folk dance, and natural movement. theballetclub.com
Ballet Hispanico
This ballet studio on the Upper West Side adds Hispanic culture and dance styles to traditional ballet. A special Adventures in Dance is offered for the 2-5 crowd; the general program for ages 6-18 offers over 25 classes a week in ballet, flamenco, hip hop, and salsa, as well as training in varied Latin American dance traditions. ballethispanico.org
Bija Kids
Through their yoga classes in Brooklyn, Bija Kids teaches children the basics of physical postures, breathing practices, and age-appropriate meditation techniques. In an energetic and creative setting, groups of children (crawling through tweens) and families can work on improving strength, coordination, and flexibility, while focusing on relaxation through meditation. bijakids.com
Bilingual Birdies
The foreign language and live music curriculum at Bilingual Birdies features interactive songs, movement, dance, puppetry, and theater-based games. The program is designed to teach children of all ages French, Mandarin, Hebrew, Spanish, and English (ESL) vocabulary alongside respective cultures. Find Bilingual Birdies at community centers, preschools, and indoor playgrounds throughout the city. bilingualbirdies.com
Bright Kids NYC
The Bright Kids NYC Gifted and Talented Bootcamp is a budget-friendly package of tutoring and books to prepare your child for the NYC gifted exam, offering savings of up to 30% off retail price. Last year, 88% of clients qualified for G&T programs. brightkidsnyc.com
Bilingual Buds
Programs are offered in Mandarin and Spanish at this immersion school located on the Upper West Side. Classes after school feature science, technology, the arts, and culture, as well as a mommy-and-me bonding for ages 1-3. Another supplemental program for enrolled preschoolers and summer camps are also available. bilingualbuds.com
Broadway Dance Center
Young dancers receive elite training from leading dance teachers and choreographers in state-of-the-art studios located in the Theater District. The Children’s and Teen Program (ages 3-18) offers 32 weeks of instruction in creative movement, pre-dance, ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, Triple Threat, Latin, jazz, modern, African, contemporary, jumps and turns, and lyrical dancing. Shorter workshops in a variety of styles and levels are also offered. broadwaydancecenter.com
Carousel of Languages
Kids 6 months to 12 years can learn one of many foreign languages, including Spanish, French, Italian, Mandarin, and Russian at The Carousel of Languages, located on both the Upper East and West Sides. An afterschool program for kids to continue their linguistic studies, as well as a summer program that incorporates games, music, and art, is also offered. carousellanguages.com
The Chabad Preschool at Beekman Place
This preschool offers afterschool enrichment classes as well as a weekly Baby Loves Shabbat! class for babies 6-18 months and caregivers. The gentle mommy-and-me introduction to Jewish songs is centered around a Shabbat party of music, parachute play, candle lighting, and Challah baking—bringing the joy of Jewish traditions alive while focusing on children’s development. chabadsutton.org
Chelsea Piers
Sports enthusiasts of all ages love this Chelsea complex, which features classes in every sport imaginable, including golf, baseball, basketball, bowling, boxing, dance, and gymnastics. Also on the menu: ice hockey and ice skating at the Sky Rink, fitness classes, running, soccer, sailing, rock climbing, yoga, swimming, and volleyball. chelseapiers.com
Children’s Museum of the Arts (CMA)
Professional teaching artists leads age-appropriate classes in fine art and media making at CMA in SoHo. Multi-sensory WeeArt classes for babies up to age 5 develop fine and gross motor skills. Kids 5-12 can sign up for afterschool classes like drawing, sculpting, art history, animation, and filmmaking. A more intensive teen program helps students build portfolios. cmany.org
Children’s Museum of Manhattan (CMOM)
CMOM’s popular enrollment classes are offered all year long. Intimate classes, expertly trained teachers, and unique classroom spaces make a combination offered nowhere else in NYC. CMOM’s enrollment classes are designed to support the many ways children learn and to help parents understand and guide their child’s development. cmom.org
Children’s Tumbling
Starting at 16 months old, children can learn the gymnastics behind tumbling at Children’s Tumbling. With a non-competitive approach, music, storytelling, and imagination are incorporated into active classes for kids in Lower Manhattan. For kids 6.5 years and older, stilt-walking, trapeze, and circus silk classes are available. childrentumbling.com
Child’s Play NY
Budding thespians learn the craft of acting by re-interpreting classic and contemporary children’s literature at Child’s Play NY in Carroll Gardens and Brooklyn Heights. Afterschool classes for ages 3-5 and 4-6 are offered alongside summer intensives and in-school residencies for both 3-5 and 6-9, in which kids explore storytelling, song, creative movement, theater games, and improvisation. childsplayny.com
Church Street School for Music and Art
This non-profit school for the arts in Lower Manhattan focuses on music and art classes for ages 16 months to teens and adults. An Afterschool Arts Academy features classes in comics and illustration, art foundations, hip hop dance, digital photography, CSS choristers, digital animation/sound effects, drawing, painting, sculpture, wellness, and yoga. churchstreetschool.org
Citibabes
Located in SoHo, this family membership club offers age-appropriate classes for little ones 2 months to 10 years. Besides its renowned preschool program, CitiSchool, kids can also enroll in enriching classes focusing on science, art, cooking, music, ballet and creative movement, foreign languages (like French and Spanish), American Sign Language, and family yoga. Combination classes for babies and toddlers are also offered. citibabes.com
Collina Italiana
Italian language and culture programs are offered at this Upper East Side location as well as off-site. Children’s programming, developed for toddlers through teens (2 and above), includes singing, dancing, theater, storytelling, games, and Disney films in Italian. Kids ages 5-12 will even create a play and perform it all in Italian on stage. collinaitaliana.com
Columbus Gym
Active tots and school-aged children can sign up for classes at Columbus Gym, the largest gym on the Upper West Side. Classes feature age-appropriate activities for ages 6-12 months up to 12 years old. The 3,000-square-foot gymnasium features tumbling mats, a soft jungle gym, a trampoline, beams, rings, and bars, where kids can test their gymnastics, movement, motor skills, balance, and coordination. columbusgymnyc.com
Construction Kids
ConstructionKids afterschool classes are for both experienced and new builders, grades K-2. Children learn basic tool safety and how to assemble materials in this active, creative class. Children work with drawings (blueprints), learn the history and context of building traditions, and work with a variety of materials. Vacation camps and homeschool options also offered. constructionkids.com
Cook With Class
Chef Rob Endelman teaches cooking classes for ages 5 and up. All classes use organic, local, and seasonal ingredients. Kids learn how to make over their favorite junk foods using various cooking techniques. Classes are offered throughout New York City. cookwithclass.net
The Craft Studio
In The Craft Studio’s crafting classes, let your kids create uninhibitedly with the most fun, creative, and trendy art supplies. Supportive and caring instructors, not to mention fun philosophies, help kids ages 3 and up make neon wrap bracelets, wallets and pocketbooks, multimedia self portraits, and so much more. There’s something for everyone, available in studio, your school, or other spaces. craftstudionyc.com
Creative Play for Kids
This music, movement, and play program for babies 3 months old to toddlers 3 years old is offered at several locations throughout Manhattan. Little ones will enjoy singing, dancing, open play, stories, and instrument playing. Drop-in classes and music-and-art combo classes are also available. creativeplayforkids.com
DanceSport
Located on West 34th Street, the largest ballroom and Latin dance studio in New York offers a Made4Kids music and dance education program. Little Learners, for ages 3-5, encourages individual expression and communication, free style and partner dance, and sign language fundamentals. Preschool alternative music and dance classes are also offered. Children 6-12 learn dances from different cultures, including salsa, merengue, swing, ballroom, and hip hop. dancesport.com
Dean Street
This Brooklyn restaurant’s weekly children’s events include everything from arts and crafts to story time to sing-alongs with kid-favorite musicians and bands. All programs begin at 10:30am—so stick around after for a family lunch! deanstreetbrooklyn.com
The Diller–Quaile School of Music
Since 1920, Diller-Quaile has been developing the innate musicality in each individual, inspiring participation for a lifetime. The School is comprised of early childhood, instrumental and vocal, adult, teacher training, and outreach departments. Rug Concerts, master classes, and faculty concerts occur throughout the year. diller-quaile.org
Discovery Programs
This early childhood institution on the Upper West Side hosts year-round special events, classes, camps, and programs for ages 6 months to 14 years. At each age, kids have a variety of activities to choose from. Classes include Art for Tots, ballet and jazz, gymnastics (including Baby Gym and Gym for Tots), Sumo Samurai, soccer, a Musical Theater Club, and more. There’s also an open gym and art studio. discoveryprograms.com
The Early Ear
A variety of music classes are offered at The Early Ear, a program designed to introduce musical concepts to young children. Classes are grouped by age (4-12 months, 1-2 years, 2-3 years, 3-4 years, and 4-5 years) and range from sing-alongs to musical instrument introductions. The classes are designed to help students decide what they want to study for private lessons. Located throughout the Upper East and West Sides. theearlyear.com
East Side Tae Kwon Do
At this Upper East Side gym, kids ages 2-12 learn martial arts training in Tae Kwon Do and yoga. Cardio kickboxing, warrior yoga classes, parent/child Tae Kwon Do, and bully self-defense workshops (for ages 5-7 and 8-12) are also offered. eastsidetaekwondo.com
Eastside Westside Music Together
This internationally recognized music program for babies, toddlers and children up to age seven is located on both the Upper East and West Sides. Baby and mixed age groups encourage each child to move, chant, sing, and explore musical instruments with lots of parent participation. Older kids ages 5-7 will learn basic music literacy combined with play, laying the foundation for school or private instruction. eswsmusictogether.com
East Side Yoga
Designed to build body awareness in a non-competitive environment, this kids’ yoga school on the Upper East Side offers age-appropriate classes that teach proper form, poses, and even meditation. Classes are available for kids 3-12. eastsideyoganyc.com
EBL Coaching EBL
Coaching offers afterschool and weekend courses for students in grades preK-12 in reading, writing, math, and study skills. They use research-based, multi-sensory methods that are individualized according to the needs of each student. Specialized programs for students with learning disabilities and ADHD are also available. eblcoaching.com
Education Light: School of Chess
After years of teaching chess at schools like Princeton Day and Mandell, Light Buggiani has opened a chess school at two locations on the Upper East Side. Classes are based on age and experience, with only ten students per class. Plus, each student gets a free hour of private lessons to ensure mastery. educationallight.com
ExerBlast
ExerBlast’s family gym has everything from a rotating rock wall to a light-sensored jungle gym to an obstacle course. To make it personal, training sessions are available for kids of all ages and abilities to meet individual needs. exerblast.com
Fastbreak Kids
Fastbreak is opening a brand new facility this fall, offering a variety of sports developmental programming for all levels from 1.5 to 18 years. The 7,000-square-foot indoor facility on the Upper East Side will include a state-of-the-art basketball court, private training area, parent viewing area, and party room. With basketball, baseball, flag football, soccer, and more, there’s something for every active city kid. fastbreakkids.com
French Institute Alliance Française
FIAF, located on the Upper East Side, offers education and arts classes for exploring French culture. Classes are designed for toddlers, kids, and teens to learn the French language. Kids and family events and story hours are held in the library, and other performing arts events are held during the year. fiaf.org
Freshmade NYC
This cooking school for kids 2-9 emphasizes math, science, literacy skills, and fine motor development while teaching fun, age-appropriate ways to make tasty and healthy dishes. Located in Greenwich Village, it also offers birthday parties, catering, and courses for parents like What to Eat When You’re Expecting and Navigating the Grocery Store with a Toddler. freshmadenyc.com
The Gaga Center
This is the first space in Manhattan dedicated to the kid-favorite game of gaga. Played in an octagonal pit with a soft foam ball, gaga combines the skills of running, striking, dodging, and jumping. Grades K-6 get a serious workout in the fun and easy game. One-hour classes begin with a warm-up, followed by a quick strategy lesson. gagacenter.com
German-American School
Since 1892, teachers have been educating children of all races and cultures in German at the German-American School. Meeting once weekly, classes prepare students for a variety of tests up to college level. german-american-school.org
Gymboree Play & Music
At several locations throughout Manhattan, kids can sign up for music, art, sports, family fun, and school skills classes for up to age 5. Gymboree Play & Learn, one of the most popular classes, encourages development through play, from sensory stimulation to problem-solving games and storytelling. The class is offered in a variety of age groups. gymboreeclasses.com
Gymtime Rhythm & Glues
There’s so much for kids to get involved in at this Upper East Side facility, from early enrichment and preschool alternative classes to creative art and cooking to gymnastics and sports. Classes are broken up into age groups for ages 6 months to 12 years. While babies and toddlers learn to play, move, and explore using gross motor and early language skills, older kids can create crafts or learn about nutrition in a class like Fabulous Foodies. gymtime.net
Hands On!
Using a special instrument-based curriculum, this music studio (in three Manhattan locations) introduces infants, toddlers, and preschoolers to popular folk tunes, nursery rhymes, and lullabies in the Hands On Musical Experience. Classes feature stories narrated by hand puppets, music, instrument exploration, and movement. An introductory keyboard class is also offered for budding pianists. handson4music.com
HiArt!
This art studio in Chelsea features a variety of classes that inspire kids. Ages 2 -12 can sign up for Opera ‘N Art, which incorporates visits to New York City museums, art galleries, and operas with mixed media art projects. Other classes for older kids include writing, painting, and collage making. Holiday camps and mini-camps are also offered. hiartkids.com
¡HOLA! A Playgroup in Spanish
Available in multiple locations throughout Manhattan, kids are taught Spanish using original and traditional music, movement, art, games, and props. Classes are offered for ages 12 months to 9 years. Besides reinforcing vocabulary in the language classes, kids can also take culture and movement classes in yoga, ballet, and flamenco classes taught entirely in Spanish. holaplaygroup.com
Jazz at Lincoln Center
Kids and families can participate in the family concert series, Jazz for Young People, in which they go behind the scenes and learn about famous jazz performers and jazz styles at Lincoln Center on the Upper West Side. WeBop, an early childhood jazz education program for ages 8 months to five years and their parents, teaches improvisation and lets kids jam with a live quartet, swing to nursery rhymes, and more. jalc.org
JCC in Manhattan
This 14-story community center on the Upper West Side serves families with a variety of classes and programs for members of all ages and abilities. The health club offers swimming lessons as well as sports and wellness classes. Other classes cover art, science, cooking, gymnastics, Russian language, dance, music, acting, and performing arts. Programming is also available for children with special needs. jccmanhattan.org
Jodi’s Gym
Jodi’s Gym has been providing NYC kids ages 9 months to 12 years with the highest level of fun and fitness for 30 years. Their step-by-step, positive approach ensures that every child feels a sense of accomplishment, improves his or her skills, and has tons of fun! For the tiniest tumblers to the more advanced gymnasts, class offerings include gymnastics (mommy and me, preschool, K-6th grade), gym and music combos, dance, fitness, science, holiday camps, open play, private lessons, and the best birthdays ever. jodisgym.com
Joffrey Ballet School
Kids who sign up for ballet at Joffrey Ballet School in the West Village are trained in classical and contemporary ballet as well as other forms of dance, including modern, jazz, hip hop, and character dance. A Children’s Program (ages 2-9) also offers Dance with Me (where parents or caregivers are the dance partner). A Young Dancer’s Program is offered for ages 10 and up. joffreyballetschool.com
Karma Kids Yoga
Karma Kids Yoga offers a fun and creative approach for infants through teenagers. Magical yoga adventures with puppets, songs, stories, and games keep young kids engaged; classes for older kids include simple and challenging poses for increasing strength, coordination, balance, focus, and confidence. Included are kid-friendly music, fun yoga games, and relaxation time with foot rubs. Glow-in-the-dark, pajama, and circus yoga are also available alongside birthday parties. karmakidsyoga.com
Kate Tempesta’s Urban Golf Academy (KTUGA)
Founded by Kate Tempesta—deemed a Top Young Instructor by Golf Digest—KTUGA helps kids ages 4 and up learn proper technique, etiquette, and skill in both indoor and outdoor settings. The curriculum uses imagination, play, and age-appropriate methods in combining a mixture of putting, driving, pitching and chipping to help children learn four basic shots. ktuga.com
Kick & Play
Introduce your toddler 12-24 months to the basics of soccer and fun-filled movement. From the creators of Super Soccer Stars, this pre-soccer program engages toddlers’ natural development with the help of puppet friends. Parents and children stretch to a song, enjoy a soccer warm-up and upper body activity, learn soccer skills, and play educational games. Offered at several locations. kickandplay.com
Kidberry
This music and education center in South Harlem introduces songs, movement, rhythmic rhymes, and instrument play to babies and kindergarteners with their Music Together class. The center’s My Mini School offers a “preschool in 90 minutes” concept with circle time, art, music, dance, games, free play, and snack time. Dance classes incorporate ballet, hip hop, and Latin rhythms; foreign language classes introduce kids to Spanish and Mandarin Chinese. kidberrynyc.com
Kids at Art
Kids at Art is the premiere Art Studio for Children in NYC. They focus on the basics of visual arts, with age-appropriate projects for each group from 2-12 years of age in painting, drawing, collage, and much more, all in a nurturing environment. Now at a new studio at 1412 Second Avenue between 73rd and 74th Streets. kidsatartnyc.com
Kids at Work
A variety of drop-off classes are offered for babies and tots up to age 4 at this center in Chelsea, focusing on educational policies from Bank Street and Montessori systems. Try a sensory music or art class, learn how to play soccer with Super Soccer Stars, whip up some goodies with Taste Buds Kitchen, or toddle around a toddler ballet class. Sun Sessions at a local park incorporates music, movement, stories, and songs. kidsatworknyc.com
Kids In Sports
Kids can sign up for this specialized sports program located throughout Manhattan for ages 12 months through 12 years old. Learn the fundamentals of baseball, basketball, flag football, floor hockey, lacrosse, soccer, and volleyball through multi-sport or sport-specific classes. Kids In Sports offers camps for two different age groups, both indoors, for 2.5-3 years and 4-6 years. kisnyc.com
Kidville
Child development specialists design a variety of creative classes to stimulate, engage, and entertain babies up to age 6 at this favorite kid center, located throughout Manhattan and Brooklyn. Choose from cooking, gym, art, enrichment, and music and dance classes like Rockin’ Railroad. Not sure if your child is ready for preschool? The Kidville University program offers an alternative. kidville.com
Language Workshop for Children
Stimulating language lessons are offered for babies, toddlers, and elementary school children. Original music, action games, visual aids, and vocabulary-building songs help students learn Spanish, French, Chinese, and Italian. The program is internationally recognized, using The Thibaut Technique, a whole language approach using both sides of the brain. Locations are on the Upper East and West sides. languageworkshopforchildren.com
Launch Math Achievement Center
This center on the Upper West Side teaches basic math concepts to young children, using objects and themes they encounter every day. Through small group activities, little ones 3-5 years old will learn counting, geometric designs, math vocabulary, measuring, estimation, patterns, time, and more. Kids in grades K-8 learn using fun computer-based instruction, hands-on tools, and problem-solving. launchmath.com
Lil Yogi’s NYC
The fundamentals of yoga are introduced to kids ages 12 months through the teen years in this playful, non-competitive program. Held at studios throughout the Upper West Side and in Central Park in late spring and summer, classes are designed to help kids feel stronger and more relaxed, engaging their imaginations with pictures, music, stories, interactive games, and traditional poses. lilyogisnyc.com
The Little Gym
The Little Gym’s gymnastics program for preschoolers and kindergarteners has been specially designed to help children reach developmental milestones in a structured environment that combines gymnastics with fun. Five co-ed classes are offered: Funny Bugs (3-4 years), Giggle Worms (4-5), Good Friends, (5-6), Mini Flips (3-4, advanced), and Mini Jets (5-6, advanced). thelittlegym.com
Little Maestros
This award-winning infant and toddler music program, available in several Manhattan locations, offers little ones an introduction to music with instruments, age-appropriate movement exercises, pretend play and interactive activities, original music performances, bubbles, musical storytime, puppet shows, and more. littlemaestros.com
Loop of the Loom
This hand-weaving studio on the Upper East Side offers afterschool classes for ages 8-14. Using the award-winning SAORI weaving program from Japan, kids of different levels produce their own projects with semi-private instruction. They’ll learn spinning and felting from natural fiber, dyeing, sewing, knitting, and crochet to create belts, hats, ponchos, bags, dresses and more. A homeschooler family class is also available. loopoftheloom.com
Lucy Moses School
This Hebrew arts school located at the Kaufman Center on the Upper West Side offers dance, music, and theater classes for preschoolers through teens. Preschoolers develop dance techniques through ballet, creative dance, rhythmic games, songs, and stories, while older kids learn modern dance and jazz combinations, Broadway music, and children’s theater. Music classes range from instrument instruction to composition to advanced music theory. kaufman-center.org/lms
Mad Science
Mad Science sparks imaginative learning for ages 3-8 with STEM-focused topics like Color Lab, Wacky Waves, Dry Ice Capades, Mysterious Magnets, and more. Offerings include preschool, elementary, and afterschool workshops as well as vacation camps, private home classes, birthday parties, and special events. madscience.com/manhattan
Make Meaning
Make Meaning is a first-of-its-kind destination for kids and adults to have fun with creativity. They offer more than 50 activities like cake decorating, jewelry making, and more, featuring mediums like candles, soap, glass, ceramics, paper, jewelry. You can also get creative with your crew in one of our stunningly designed private party spaces for all ages. Located on the Upper East and West Sides. makemeaning.com
Mathnasium
Located on the Upper East and West Sides and in Brooklyn, this learning center helps increase your child’s math skills, understanding of concepts, and overall school performance. Kids attend two or three times a week for about an hour. mathnasium.com
Moey’s Music Party
This award-winning Off Broadway songwriter/mom-rocker and her band perform children’s concerts throughout NYC playgrounds and birthday parties in the New York Metro area. Summer classes are offered in Central Park, featuring songs, dances, instruments, musical fairy tales, weekly themes, and lessons in counting and phonics for infants through preschoolers. moeysmusicparty.com
Moonsoup
Babies 2-12 months, toddlers, and elementary schoolers up to age 8 can get a feel for sensory play, including music, art, and American Sign Language at this early childhood learning center in multiple Manhattan and Astoria locations. Classes incorporate messy art projects, dress up costumes, puppets, drumming, dancing, and more, as children work on taking turns and sharing. moonsoup.net
Musical Kids International
Interested in teaching your child another language? Musical Kids International on the Upper East Side teaches kids Spanish through interactive activities that incorporate music, dance, art, and movement. Professional educators who are native speakers work with imported materials and with their own award-winning products, including reading rugs and play areas. imbilingual.com
Music for Aardvarks and Other Mammals
Children 6 months to 5 years will enjoy singing, dancing, musical story telling, instrument jam sessions, and puppet play at this music class featuring original music that reflects growing up in an urban environment. Classes are held at multiple locations. musicforaardvarks.com
My Gym UES
At My Gym on the Upper East Side, little ones ages 6 weeks to 13 years learn sports skills, gain fine and gross motor proficiency, and strengthen manipulative skills. In all age groups, teaching physical skills is a top priority, but children also develop social skills as they become good listeners, follow directions, and cooperate. my-gym.com/manhattan.aspx
My Gym UWS
My Gym on the Upper West Side has spent 30 years building children’s self-esteem and nurturing a love of fitness and activity through fun. Gym, yoga, and martial arts classes are offered in a clean, safe, and fun environment for children 6 weeks to 6 years. Member benefits include unlimited summer classes and free plays as well as exclusive savings on parents’ night out, summer camp, and birthday parties. Now also at a new location in Harlem. mygym.com/uws
National Academy Museum & School
The Academy’s art classes for young students incorporate drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpture, and mixed media in a learning environment that encourages creativity and self-expression. With classes taught indoors and out, young students explore Museum Mile and Central Park as well as the newly redesigned Academy. nationalacademy.org
New York Jazz Academy
This fast-growing music school offers an introduction to jazz curriculum in locations throughout Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, and Long Island. Ages 9-13 can audition for a Junior Jazz Workshop, which introduces improvisation and styles while teaching note reading, music theory, instrument technique, ensemble performance, and more. Even infants and preschoolers get an introduction to jazz with Jelly Jamz in Jackson Heights. nyjazzacademy.com
New York Theatre Ballet
Ballet School NY in Murray Hill is the official training school of New York Theatre Ballet, offering graded classes like pre-ballet (ages 4-7), Ballet I and Ballet II (ages 8-11), and advanced Ballet III and Young Artists Program (ages 11 and up). The Children’s Division, by audition only, performs its “Once Upon a Ballet” series at Florence Gould Hall. Ballet is taught as an art form, with strong technical skill and discipline. nytb.org
NYChessKids
One of the largest youth chess programs, NYChessKids spreads its love for the game through organizing tournaments, afterschool programs, and chess camps. Instructors also host classes at the New York Public Library and offer private lessons. nychesskids.com
NY City Explorers
This team of educators and artists offers enrichment classes, preschool programs, and adventure camps for kids of all ages. Five-hour walking adventures to each of the five boroughs are available for 2- to 16-year-olds to explore parks, museums, and attractions with the Daytrippers program. nycityexplorers.com
NY Kids Club
Sign your child up for classes at one of these six children’s enrichment centers, located throughout Manhattan and Brooklyn. There are baby fitness and music classes for infants 2-5 months old plus a variety of classes for preschoolers and school-age children. Choose from art, music, dance, gymnastics, fitness, cooking, preschool learning, or combo classes. nykidsclub.com
Peridance Capezio Center
The renowned School at Peridance has been recognized as a pioneer in dance education. The PeriChild Program for students 18 months to 18 years features a progressive interdisciplinary approach to dance training, emphasizing a thorough understanding of various dance techniques while promoting self-expression and creativity. Classes include ballet, modern, jazz, tap, hip hop, musical theater, salsa, and African. peridance.com
Physique Swim School
Physique Swimming offers classes year-round at all skill levels, starting at 6 months. In addition to swim lessons, Physique Swimming offers a summer camp in Battery Park City with swim instructions, an educational art program, and exciting sports activities every day. Seven locations throughout Manhattan. Register online and receive 10% off. physiqueswimming.com
Planet Han
At Planet Han, it’s Mandarin for all with learning, fun, and confidence! Kids and adults can learn Mandarin through group classes, afterschool programs, and private tutoring. They’ll send you MP3 files after each class to recap what the children have learned. planethanchinese.com
Playgarden
Offering classes in ballet, hip hop, sports, karate, music, and more, Playgarden enriches growing minds and bodies in the early years. This indoor playground and activity center located in Tribeca is geared toward children ages 0-5. playgardennyc.com
Poppyseed Pre-Nursery
Meeting two or three times a week, tots and twos with adults enjoy frequent contact and a daily routine of singing and dancing, playing with toys, arts and crafts, mini-gym, and snack and story time. Poppyseed is the perfect bridge between home and nursery school. poppyseedprenursery.com
Prenatal Yoga Center
The first yoga center of its kind in NYC, the Prenatal Yoga Center’s schedule includes Pre- and Postnatal Yoga, New Mother’s Support Groups, Childbirth Education and a Breastfeeding Support Circle, all conducted in a calm, peaceful environment. Locations in Manhattan and Brooklyn. prenatalyogacenter.com
Private Picassos
Kids ages 18 months and up can learn all about fine art with this group of weekly classes at a variety of locations around New York City. Customized, in-home art lessons or arranged museum and gallery tours also let kids explore legendary artists. Kids get involved with interactive projects that increase fine motor skills such as crafting their own jewelry or making their own books. privatepicassos.com
Reebok Sports Club/NY & Sports Club/LA
Programs here are created with a developmental approach to learning. Offerings include a 2s separation program, classes in which 2s and 3s can explore project play, plus other programs focused on tennis, zumba, and other sports. Both camps and afterschool options are available. reeboksportsclubny.com; thesportsclubla.com
Riverside Piano Studios
Musically inclined kids can get jazzed over individual classes at Riverside Piano, which moved into a new Columbus Circle location last fall. Six teachers instruct in classical, jazz, and pop piano lessons and songwriting. The new location offers afterschool, evening, and weekend openings to new students. riversidepiano.com
Riverside Music Studios
One of the Upper West Side’s most beloved piano teachers has opened a small school in Columbus Circle where little musicians will find rooms and varied lessons in individual violin, cello, guitar, flute, voice instruction, and more. Traditional piano instruction will remain a focus while The Piano Games program, suitable for 3 and up, includes activities to inspire piano-technique building. riversidemusicstudios.com
The School at Steps
The School at Steps is a training ground for students ages 2-18, offering year-round programs with classes in ballet, modern, tap, jazz, theater dance, hip hop, and Pilates. Beginning with the Young Dancers Program and continuing through technique classes and the pre-professional Program, young dancers learn and experiment with technique and enrich their appreciation for the various forms of the art. stepsnyc.com/the-school-at-steps
SciTech Kids
Working alongside real scientists, children ages 3-15 engage in experiments and building projects that teach them to think and problem solve like the pros. The program offers age-based classes with a curriculum integrating numerous branches of science and invention-based activities like robot building and CSI forensic studies. Summer camp, preschool and afterschool programs, and special events are also available. sci-techkids.com
Simply Sports
This athletic program in Manhattan for ages 3-13 offers a range of age-appropriate sports that are scheduled after school, on weekends, and on school holidays at various locations. Kids can choose baseball, basketball, flag football, or soccer in clinics, leagues, and competitions. Fun sports events like capture the flag and miniature golf are also organized throughout the year. simplysports.net
Soccer by Coach Fher
The well-known and much-respected Coach Fher offers a specialized development program to bring out the best soccer skills in kids ages 2.5-10. Classes are offered year-round throughout New York’s boroughs in both indoor and outdoor settings with a low coach to child radio. coachfher.com
socialsklz:-)
Fun, interactive workshops teach children more than basic manners; this organization on the Upper West Side also teaches fundamental social skills and etiquette. Lessons include making good first impressions, introducing oneself, starting conversations, dining and phone skills, making a toast at a party, and safe Internet use. Classes are divided into age groups (4-7, 8-12, 13-17). socialsklz.com
SocRoc
A former soccer professional and certified strength and conditioning specialist teaches soccer and fitness classes year-round throughout Manhattan, Queens, and Brooklyn. Kids ages 2-14 will develop core, upper body, and lower body strength, as well as learn soccer basics and enhance flexibility and endurance. jcsocroc.com
SPORTIME Randall’s Island
This impressive facility includes 20 indoor/outdoor hard courts, a 20,000-square-foot clubhouse, and a fitness and training center. SPORTIME’s Junior Tennis program and John McEnroe Tennis Academy for Elite Players are designed to excite kids about the world of tennis and nurture young players into world class athletes. Summer camp sessions are also offered. sportimeny.com
StageCoach Theatre Arts
Singing, drama/acting and dance classes are offered for budding thespians (ages 4-18) at this Upper East Side part-time performing arts school. Kids learn vocal articulation and modulation, acting techniques, characterization, and advanced choreography. stagecoachschools.com
Super Soccer Stars & Super Soccer Stars Premier
Super Soccer Stars teaches soccer skills in a fun, non-competitive and educational environment. Though their age-specific curriculum, they use soccer to nurture, build self-confidence, and develop teamwork. Kick & Play, the parent/child pre-soccer program, is perfect for tots ages 12-24 months. Advanced young soccer stars can check out Super Soccer Stars Premier development classes and the NY Stars Premier competitive travel teams. Classes at 250+ locations throughout the tri-state area. supersoccerstars.com; starspremier.com
SwimJim
SwimJim classes are a fun way to learn swimming and water safety year-round. They believe children learn best in a friendly, loving environment where they feel safe and at ease, which enables young swimmers to learn basic and advanced skills while helping parents feel reassured. With five NYC locations and classes ranging from infants to adult, SwimJim has a class for everyone. swimjim.com
TADA! Youth Theater
Sing, dance, and act! TADA! Youth Theater runs weekly musical theater classes—and whenever school is out, TADA! is in with one-day and week-long camps. Toddlers through 8th graders build performing skills with original TADA! music. tadatheater.com
Take Two Film Academy
Aspiring movie makers ages 8-15 will love this filmmaking and film-acting program, available afterschool, on weekends, and over the summer. The Upper West Side facility invites students to write, act, shoot, and edit their own film and submit to the New York International Children’s Film Festival. Cameras, audio and editing software and other equipment are provided. taketwofilmacademy.com
Taste Buds Kitchen
Kids ages 2 through teens can sign up for weekly cooking classes and have a new culinary adventure each week at Taste Buds Kitchen, located in the Fashion District. They’ll learn to make everything from cupcakes to mac and cheese to special cuisine from around the world. Sign up to learn how to cook with the whole family. Special summer camps and day-long or week-long camps are also available during school holidays. tastebudskitchen.com
TLB Music
TLB Music is a music studio and playspace located on the Upper East Side. Group classes for ages 4 months to 6 years are designed to enhance development while introducing children to all genres of music and classical and folk instruments. Its eco-friendly playroom for children ages 6 months to 6 years is perfect for playdates and birthday parties. tlbmusic.com
West Side Taekwondo
This martial arts center on the Upper West Side offers Tae Kwon Do training for kids of all ages. Age-appropriate classes include Pee Pods (ages 3-4), Pee Wee (ages 4-5), children’s program for beginners, intermediate and advanced (ages 6-11), teens and adults. westsidetkd.com
YMCA
Located throughout New York City, local branches of the Y offer a variety of programs for kids of all ages, from pre-K through teen. There are traditional sport clinics, parent/child and group swimming lessons, fitness, art, music, dance, performing arts and visual art classes, and, for older kids, martial arts training and academic enrichment classes. ymcanyc.org
Yogi Beans
This Upper East Side yoga studio for kids offers flexible drop-in classes for babies, toddlers, children and teens year-round. Age-appropriate classes help kids with breathing exercises and proper poses, while props like storybooks, songs, and games will keep them entertained. yogibeans.com
FURTHER READING
How To Avoid Overscheduling Your Child
Tips For Getting Creative With Your Class Search
Educator Gabriella Rowe’s Case For Boredom
