Got Class?: New York Family’s Winter Classes Preview

74th St. MAGIC
74th St. MAGIC

Many winter/spring classes will be gearing up in the weeks to come. This preview, which highlights some of the many children’s enrichment venues that we love, serves as an opening act for the ultimate roundup of 2014’s coolest classes coming in our next issue. Use the below to start thinking about where to enroll, then check back in January for the specifics!

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 are also a variety of family performances and holiday celebrations throughout the year, as well as a rooftop playground and an indoor GymMaze. 92Y.org

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. Farm Foodies Cooking: New and yummy seasonal recipes every time with a new fruit or vegetable each class. M-F Drop-Ins: Playroom, art, cooking, and animals. Birthday parties: Nine themes ranging from farm animals to Pirate and Princess to Mad Science. theartfarms.org

Asphalt Green
Active kids can head to this sports center with locations on the Upper East Side and in Battery Park City for all their swimming, fitness, and sports needs. All ages can sign up for gymnastics, flag football, martial arts, soccer, baseball, circus arts, cultural arts, cooking classes and more. There’s also a Speed, Agility, Quickness (SAQ) Academy for ages 7-14 for improving fitness and core strengthening. asphaltgreen.org; asphaltgreenbpc.org

Karma Kids Yoga
Karma Kids Yoga

Basketball Stars of NY
Basketball Stars is a full service youth basketball organization made up of former NBA and Division I college basketball players and coaches that work with children ages 3-17 through afterschool programs, private training, travel basketball teams (BSNY TITANS!), position-specific mini-camps, summer camps, and birthday parties. Certified coaches assist in helping to build self-confidence, character, and discipline through practice and teaching the game they love. basketballstarsofny.com

BookNook
Within their comfortable and welcoming ambiance, this early childhood enrichment program on the Upper West Side offers classes in everything related to literacy, from reading and phonics to handwriting and kindergarten readiness. The 90-minute classes are capped at six students each and divided into five different age-appropriate levels for ages 1.5-7. booknooknyc.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, ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, musical theater, Latin jazz, contemporary, jumps and turns, and lyrical. Shorter workshops in a variety of styles and levels are also offered. broadwaydancecenter.com

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, rock climbing, yoga, swimming, and volleyball. chelseapiers.com

Swim Jim
Swim Jim

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 trampoline, beams, rings, and bars, where kids can test their gymnastics, movement, motor, balance, and coordination skills. columbusgymnyc.com

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, and other spaces. craftstudionyc.com

The DillerQuaile School of Music
Founded in 1920, Diller-Quaile is comprised of early childhood (ages 4 months to 6 years), instrumental and vocal, adult, teacher training, and outreach departments. Rug Concerts, master classes, and faculty concerts occur throughout the year. New early childhood classes begin in January 2014. diller-quaile.org

Fastbreak Kids
Fastbreak opened a brand new state-of-the-art sports facility this past November. Offerings include developmental sports programming for ages 2-5, along with basketball and multi-sports programs for all levels for kids 5-18. The 7,000-square-foot indoor facility on the Upper East Side  includes a top-tier 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

Jazz at Lincoln Center
Jazz at Lincoln Center boasts a diverse range of educational offerings for all ages. WeBop is an early childhood jazz education program that teaches families the core concepts of jazz. Classes are grouped by age, from 8 months to 5 years old. The Jazz for Young People Family Concert series teaches key musical concepts via interactive concerts that illuminate the subject at hand based on a major performance of the season. Concerts are suggested for kids 6-12 years in age. jalc.org

The JCC in Manhattan
This 14-story UWS community center serves families with a variety of classes and programs for all ages and abilities. The Marti Ann Meyerson Center for Health & Wellness offers swimming lessons as well as pre- and post-natal fitness classes. Programs through the Wassserman Center for Family Life include art, science, cooking, gymnastics, martial arts, and multiple sports classes including tennis, lacrosse, and basketball. The center’s new Birthday Party program offers many unique options for celebrating your child’s special day. 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 32 years. Their step-by-step, no-fail approach ensures that every child feels a sense of accomplishment in the most positive and caring environment. There’s something for everyone, from the tiniest tumblers to advanced gymnasts. Classes include gymnastics, music, science, fitness, yoga, holiday and summer camps, free open play for members (50 per semester!), member perks, playgroups, private lessons, and the best birthday parties ever. jodisgym.com

TLB Music
TLB Music

Joffrey Ballet School
Kids who sign up for ballet at Joffrey Ballet School in the West Village receive training that builds creativity and physicality in classical and contemporary ballet as well as other forms of dance, including modern, jazz, hip hop, and character dance. A Children’s Program (for 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, and games keep young kids engaged; classes for older kids include simple and challenging poses for increasing strength, coordination, focus, confidence, and more. Included are kid-friendly music, fun yoga games and activities, and calming relaxation time with yummy-smelling foot rubs. Look for special events such as Glow-in-the-Dark Yoga, Pajama Yoga, CircusYoga, Superhero Yoga, American Girl Doll Yoga, and more. Unique birthday parties are also available. karmakidsyoga.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 ages 2-12 in painting, drawing, collage, and much more, all in a nurturing environment. Also offering fashion/sewing classes and musical theater classes led by TADA! Youth Theater, Arty and Karaoke birthday parties! kidsatartnyc.com

Kids In Sports
Children can sign up for this specialized sports program located throughout Manhattan for ages 12 months through 12 years. 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, for 2.5-3 years and 4-6 years. kisnyc.com 

Let’s Gogh Art NYC
Let’s Gogh Art NYC is a mobile, creative arts entertainment and enrichment company delivering exciting art-based programs for ages 2-12. Get your groove on and learn some fun dance moves while creating rock star-worthy projects with combo classes like Let’s Gogh Dance—or focus on making some cool creatures in Where the Wild Things Art. For the younger set, teacher can read favorite books in an entertaining way and lead students in creating amazing, related art projects. nyletsgoghart.com

My Gym
My Gym has spent 30 years building children’s self-esteem and nurturing a love of fitness and activity through fun. A variety of age appropriate programming—including gym, yoga, and martial arts classes—are offered in a clean, safe, and fun environment for children 6 weeks to 13 years (programs vary by location). Member benefits include unlimited summer classes and savings on parents’ night out, summer camp, and birthday parties. Locations on the Upper West Side and Harlem: mygymisfun.com; locations on the Upper East Side: mygym.com.

NY Kids Club
Sign your child up for classes at one of these nine children’s enrichment centers, located throughout Manhattan, Williamsburg (coming in January), other parts of Brooklyn, and Long Island City (coming in September). There are baby fitness and music classes for infants 2-5 months old, plus classes for preschoolers and school-age children. Choose from art, music, dance, gymnastics, fitness, cooking, or combo classes. Day camps, parties, and events also available. nykidsclub.com

Jodi's Gym
Jodi’s Gym

Playgarden
Offering classes in ballet, hip hop, sports, music, and an early education Montessori-based program (Playgarden Prep), 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

The School at Steps
The School at Steps is a training ground for students ages 2-18, offering academic and summer 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, children are provided with an opportunity to explore the world of dance and enrich their appreciation for the various forms of the art. stepsnyc.com/school

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 with TADA! Youth Theater. They run 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

TLB Music
TLB Music is a music studio and play space 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. It’s eco-friendly playroom is also perfect for playdates and birthday parties. tlbmusic.com

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Brooklyn Robot Foundry - Virtual Classes

<p><span style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: small; background-color: #ffffff;">Brooklyn Robot Foundry offers super fun online robot-building classes for children 2-13 years old!</span><span style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: small; background-color: #ffffff;">  </span><span style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: small; background-color: #ffffff;">Each week, students are introduced to new engineering concepts and components while building that day’s robot in their own “workshop”.</span><span style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: small; background-color: #ffffff;">  </span><span style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: small; background-color: #ffffff;">All classes maintain a very low student-to-teacher ratio, allowing for plenty of individualized instruction and socializing. The supplies are shipped in advance and classes are led by amazing instructors, taking all the pressure off parents.</span><span style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: small; background-color: #ffffff;">  </span><span style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: small; background-color: #ffffff;">The Foundry’s main focus however, is that kids have fun, get creative, and enjoy being part of this STEAM-loving community!</span><span style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: small; background-color: #ffffff;"> </span></p>

The Tutorverse

<p><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; background-color: #ffffff;">Join The Tutorverse for the highest quality in academic enrichment and test preparation! Whether your student is gearing up for the </span><strong style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; background-color: #ffffff;">state exams, ISEE, SSAT, SHSAT, or SAT/ACT</strong><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; background-color: #ffffff;">, our team of </span><strong style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; background-color: #ffffff;">experienced and local professional educators</strong><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; background-color: #ffffff;"> can help. Have your student join a </span><strong style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; background-color: #ffffff;">small-group class</strong><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; background-color: #ffffff;"> at our downtown or Upper East Side locations. Or, they can meet with a </span><strong style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; background-color: #ffffff;">private tutor when and where it’s most convenient for your family</strong><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; background-color: #ffffff;">. Does your student need help building study skills or improving grades? Whether your middle or high schooler needs help with </span><strong style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; background-color: #ffffff;">STEM or humanities</strong><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; background-color: #ffffff;">, our patient and affirming tutors will teach them how to build </span><strong style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; background-color: #ffffff;">confidence and content mastery</strong><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; background-color: #ffffff;">. </span><a style="color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; background-color: #ffffff;" href="mailto:[email protected]" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Send us an email</a><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; background-color: #ffffff;"> or give us a call—we'd love to hear more about how we can help!</span></p>

Dedimus Potestatem

<p>Dedimus Potestatem provides fun, engaging, academically challenging programs to students in primary, middle, and high school. Programs include Leadership, Debate, Model United Nations, Computer Programming, Financial Literacy, Filmmaking, Philosophy, Model Congress, Mock Trial, Etiquette, Bioethics, Stem and Bioethics, and more. We currently offer both virtual and in-person private, semi-private, and group sessions and after-school programs. Contact us to bring us to your school today!</p> <p>Sessions</p> <p>We currently offer both virtual and in-person private, semi-private, and group sessions as well as after-school programs. To register, visit <a href="https://www.potestatem.co/bookclassesnow" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.potestatem.co/bookclassesnow </a>or email us at <a href="mailto:[email protected]?subject=REGISTER" target="_blank" rel="noopener">[email protected]</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.potestatem.co/leadership" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Leadership: Middle School ages 10-13, High School ages 14-18</a></p> <p>This is a unique leadership course that gives students the skills they need to succeed in life. Using an activity-based syllabus centered around character traits most sought and admired in leaders (initiative, honesty, self-control, adaptability, empathy, persuasiveness, resourcefulness, diligence, tolerance, determination, generosity, punctuality, courage, reliability, endurance, deference, creativity and integrity) students learn how to deal with situations they encounter in life. These building blocks will ensure they grow to become the leaders so sought after by our burgeoning society. Our grading rubric was adapted with the permission of Neil Mercer, the Director of research and Head of Faculty at The University of Cambridge.</p> <p><a href="https://www.potestatem.co/little-leaders-prek-and-kindergarten" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Little Leaders: Primary School Ages 6-9</a></p> <p>Developed by former pre-school and elementary teachers, this ethics-centered program utilizes a play-based method to encourage students to explore and apply soft skills in their daily lives. While cultivating the skills they will need to build strong, successful relationships, they will learn how to find their voice and showcase themselves in the best way. Students will learn to communicate and negotiate so they can be better team leaders and team players. Students will learn how to deal with situations they encounter in life, such as bullying, cheating, conflicts between two or more parties, and more. The inculcation of these values in our children's formative years will ensure they grow to become the leaders so sought after by our burgeoning society.</p> <p><a href="https://www.potestatem.co/classes/beginnersdebate" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Speech & Debate</a> (competitive and non-competitive programs available)</p> <p>This online after-school program prepares students for formal and informal presentations. Participants learn to craft and present arguments and inform, persuade, and motivate an audience in a variety of ways. According to the English Speaking Union, debate is a natural fit for students and compliments common core standards. Debate builds literacy and multi-media research skills, fosters critical thinking and expanded perspectives, enhances public speaking skills, increases confidence, trains students to listen effectively, supports diverse learners and strengthens civil engagement and discourse. </p> <p><a href="https://www.potestatem.co/model-un" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Model United Nations (Ages 11-18)</a></p> <p>Model UN simulates the six major organs of the United Nations. Students role play as delegates from a country of their choosing and learn to write and present resolutions based on topics they are passionate about-just as if they were representing member states of the United Nations. We utilize materials from National Model UN and video tutorials to teach students how to write and present position papers, working papers, and draft resolutions. Students use debate and negotiation to enlist the support of other delegates for their resolution. Model UN is a great way to teach students leadership skills like communication, conflict resolution, negotiation, and delegation.</p> <p><a href="https://www.potestatem.co/self-defense-classes" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Self Defense and Empowerment</a></p> <p>Developed by a veteran Krav Maga specialist, this self-defense program will focus on the principle of healthy minds in healthy bodies. Students will focus on de-escalation techniques as well as safe and active means of self-defense. Through active games and fun drills, students will learn the disciplined focus, critical thinking, adaptability, and resilience necessary to achieve goals, as well as gain valuable social insights into leadership and teamwork. Students will expend energy and reduce stress while learning to stand and present confidently.</p> <p>Mock Trial (<a href="https://www.potestatem.co/classes/mock-trial-classes" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Fairy Tale Mock Trial for ages 7-9</a>, regular <a href="https://www.potestatem.co/mock-trial-classes" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mock Trial Ages 10-18</a>)</p> <p>Mock trial is a hands-on simulation of the American judicial system. The goal is to help participants acquire a working knowledge of our judicial system, develop analytical abilities and communication skills, display leadership in a court of law, and gain an understanding of their obligations and responsibilities as participating members of our society. Materials for this course are provided by The American Bar Association.</p> <p><a href="https://www.potestatem.co/model-congress" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Model Congress: Ages 10-18</a></p> <p>This civics course simulates the legislative process. Students will learn about the electoral process, lobby for issues they are passionate about, draft and deliver bills, amend legislation, debate international policy, and learn how to effectively represent a constituent body of their choosing. We utilize materials from The Constitutional Rights Foundation, ICivics (founded by Justice Sandra Day O’Connor) and the National Model U.S. Congress. These resources have been proven to improve students’ civic knowledge, presentation, and core literacy skills. New research has also shown that the use of the aforementioned materials has also led to increased participation in the democratic process. Our objective in this course is to educate the next generation, nurture and inculcate a passion for civics and history and encourage young people to advocate for themselves.</p> <p><a href="https://www.potestatem.co/philosophy" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Philosophy</a></p> <p>The focus of the Philosophy class is to examine and understand the ideas behind the most popular philosophies embraced throughout the world. To do this, students examine ethical situations through the lens of these philosophies and engage in a Socratic style debate. Students are presented with an ethical question and they must identify stakeholders and players within the dilemma, discuss the key moral issues and present opposing viewpoints. This class was built for students who wish to <a href="https://nhseb.unc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">compete in the middle or high school Ethics Bowl</a>. </p> <p><a href="https://www.potestatem.co/classes/money-matters-financial-literacy-for-kids-afterschool">Money Matters: Financial Literacy for Students</a></p> <p>The Money Matters course is built to help students manage their personal finances, from building credit and loan applications to interest rates and investing strategies. This class will cover the basics of financial health, savings, spending habits, and budgeting. After learning how to store, track, and spend responsibly, students will learn about risk management, APRs, and tax preparation. This class will use real-life examples and teach students how to set and achieve financial goals. This course is ideal for middle and high school students.</p> <p><a href="https://www.potestatem.co/stem-dna-ethics" target="_blank" rel="noopener">STEM and Bioethics: (Ages 10-18)</a></p> <p>Our STEM program will give kids the opportunity to think critically about science and society, and to practice communicating scientific topics in ways everyone can understand. To be a successful scientist in our modern world, one must not only have a broad understanding of scientific material learned at school, but also the ability to communicate effectively and share that knowledge with others. Each week of this program will build on the previous while also introducing new scientific topics for discussion.</p> <p><a href="https://www.potestatem.co/classes/virtual-after-school-etiquette" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Etiquette (Ages 5 and up)</a></p> <p>Due to increasing popular demand from groups and individuals, we have decided to offer our etiquette course as an eight week after-school class. Students will not only learn how to introduce themselves and their friends, they will explore appropriate language for quotidian and special occasions, how to enter and leave conversations, proper table behavior for different scenarios, effective strategies for conflict resolution and negotiation, the importance of tone, expression, and body language in every social interaction and why manners and soft skills are essential to a successful life.</p> <p><a href="https://www.potestatem.co/classes/essay-writing" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Speech and Essay Writing: Ages 10-18</a></p> <p>This group class includes eight one-hour online sessions focused on the creation, development, and delivery of informative and persuasive speeches. This program is tailored to the needs of the individual(s) in question and can include essay writing, use of stylistic devices, and persuasive rhetoric and/or instructions on how to craft and deliver a persuasive or informative multidimensional presentation with compelling slides, audio, and videos.</p> <p><a href="https://www.potestatem.co/classes/visual-storytelling" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Visual Storytelling</a></p> <p>Multimedia platforms have increasingly become more popular for educators, artists and businesses. Young people all over the world have begun using media to amplify initiatives, educate, share science, poetry, art, movement, culture and more. In this class students will learn to capture brief videos that share their voice and vision with the world.</p> <p>College application course </p> <p>Discover the fundamentals of style, narrative, and theme for the ideal college application essays! In these sessions, you will begin by examining outstanding Personal Statements and by brainstorming your own. Then, move on to draft and edit the specialized supplemental essays for each college on your list. Space is limited to ensure personalized attention.</p> <p><a href="https://www.potestatem.co/classes/essay-writing" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Academic writing</a> </p> <p>These are sessions focused on academic writing. Our tutors have years of experience in drafting, editing, and teaching essay writing. Each package will include a consultation with our tutors to assess individual needs. </p> <p><a href="https://www.potestatem.co/classes/test-prep-sat-shsat-act-gre-gmat-asvab-tachs-more">Test Prep: SAT, SHSAT, ACT, GRE, GMAT, ASVAB, TACHS + more</a></p> <p>These classes are focused on identifying the quickest and most efficient path toward improving students' standardized test scores. Starting with a diagnostic practice exam, this program will target the key subject matter your students need to master while integrating timing, triage, and practice strategies. We aim to regularly emulate the real-life conditions of tests until students are comfortable working quickly, accurately, and efficiently. Sessions can be one hour or two hours in length, as needed.</p> <p>Computer Programming: Coding for Kids</p> <p>In these sessions, we start by discussing the basics of computer programming, what it is, what it can do, and what it was built on. Then we will begin experimenting with block-based programming languages. Students will learn the basics of computer architecture, binary code, compilers, and algorithms. By the end of the course, students will be able to produce small programs of their own. The cost of materials is not included. This class is available to younger students (Ages K-1) and middle and high school students. </p> <p> </p> <p> </p>