The 10 Best Kids Afterschool Programs and Activities in Manhattan
Listings are in alphabetical order
While academics lay the foundation for a child’s education, the learning doesn’t stop when the school day ends. Afterschool programs offer valuable opportunities for kids to explore new interests, develop hidden talents, and build confidence outside the classroom. Whether it’s dance, music, theater, sports, or STEM, extracurricular activities can help children discover what truly excites them. With the new school year fast approaching, now’s the perfect time to explore the many programs available across New York City. To help you get started, we’ve rounded up some of our top picks for after-school programs and activities—each thoughtfully designed by experienced educators to foster growth, creativity, and plenty of fun.
Alvin Ailey
The Joan Weill Center for Dance
405 West 55th St.
ailey.org/training/junior-division
The Ailey School’s Junior Division offers a highly structured curriculum for conservatory training. Students in the Pre-Professional program (ages 7-17) participate in after-school and weekend classes during the school year. All levels include training in ballet and at least one other technique. As students progress, more techniques such as jazz, Ailey Horton, modern, pointe, tap, and West African are added to their training. In First Steps and Bounding Boys (ages 3-6), children develop an understanding of dance, rhythm, and music through a weekly series of fun exercises.
Atlantic Acting School
76 Ninth Ave., Suite 313
212-691-5919, education@atlantictheater.org
atlanticactingschool.org/kids-and-teens/fall-classes
Atlantic Acting School’s Fall Classes for ages 4–18 are now enrolling! Atlantic invites young stars to play, create, and form lifelong friendships in after-school and weekend theater classes. In addition to creating characters and scripts, young actors have opportunities to produce their own work. Atlantic’s exciting acting classes offer unique focuses, from musical theater to sketch, improv, scene study, film/TV, and more, all rooted in the Atlantic Acting Technique! Plus, save $50 when you register early by using the discount code EARLYFALL2025. Visit atlanticactingschool.org for yearlong class offerings.
Ballet Academy East
1651 Third Ave.
212-410-9140, info@baenyc.com
balletacademyeast.com
Ballet Academy East is home to aspiring dancers of all ages. The Young Dancer Division, designed for children ages 18 months-6 years, focuses on nurturing individual potential and creativity through structured, age-appropriate classes that emphasize the joy of dance. The Primary Division for first graders focuses on developing strength, musicality, coordination, and flexibility. The Pre-Professional Division, designed for serious dancers ages 7-19, offers comprehensive ballet training alongside professional-caliber performance opportunities, preparing students for success in the dance world. The Children + Teen Division offers inspiring and enriching ballet classes for ages 7-15, and no audition is required for participation. For adults, the Open Adult Division features ballet classes at all levels, introductory to advanced, as well as excellent fitness classes.
Collina Italiana
1556 Third Ave., Suite 602-603
212-427-7770, info@collinaitaliana.com
collinaitaliana.com/children
From the artwork and literature to the cuisine and culture, the Italian language connects children to a world of beauty. Collina’s immersive after-school programs for kids and teens ages 2-16 and morning drop-off for toddlers ages 2-4 are the perfect way for students to start their journey with the Italian language. Collina Italiana also offers special events, workshops on Saturdays, and all-year-long language mini-camps for kids ages 3-10.
German Language School of Greater New York
Manhattan and Long Island
212-787-7543, kidslearngerman@aol.com
german-american-school.org
The German Language School of Greater New York (dba German-American School Association) has taught German to children since 1892 and welcomes children of all backgrounds. Lower grades receive bilingual instruction while upper grades are taught in German. Accredited by NY State Regents since 1911, the school’s students complete the FLAC exam. College-bound students take AP training and are encouraged to take A1/A2 exams.
Greenwich House Music School
46 Barrow St., West Village
212-242-4770
greenwichhousemusicschool.org
This fall, Greenwich House Music School offers music and dance classes that nurture creativity, confidence, and focus in children ages 0 to 13. Early childhood programs include. Music Together®, Intro to Piano, Music Makers with small, supportive classes led by experienced teachers. Children ready for more can enroll in private lessons in piano, voice, guitar, drums, and more, with monthly performance opportunities. In ballet classes from beginner to advanced levels, kids build confidence and strengthen coordination through expressive movement in a fun environment. Located in Greenwich Village, GHMS provides a welcoming space for young artists to explore music and dance at every stage of their journey. Fall classes begin September 8.
Kids ‘N Comedy
152 W 25th St., 10th Floor
212-877-6115, info@kidsncomedy.com
kidsncomedy.com
Got a teen who loves to make people laugh? Kids ’N Comedy offers stand-up comedy classes for ages 10–18, where young comics write and perform their own material while building confidence and community. Taught by professional comedians, the classes help students find their voice—whether they’re shy, silly, or somewhere in between. Over eight weeks, kids sharpen their comedic chops, form friendships, and finish the session with a live performance at NYC’s iconic Gotham Comedy Club. It’s more than an after-school activity—it’s a chance to connect, create, and take the stage. Founded by Jo Ann Grossman and Stu Morden, Kids ’N Comedy is where future comics begin their journey.
NY Kids Club
Multiple Locations Throughout NYC
nykidsclub.com
NY Kids Club enrichment classes empower young learners and ignite lifelong passions. From dance to art, music to gymnastics, sports to STEM, and more, enrichment classes foster a lifelong love for learning. Their unique, state-of-the-art gym spaces keep children active, help develop motor skills, and teach the importance of teamwork, while our classrooms inspire curiosity, encourage creativity, and spark passions. With highly trained instructors and a thoughtfully crafted curriculum, each class is designed to support children’s growth, both socially and intellectually. At NY Kids Club, every child has the opportunity to discover new interests, develop their talents, and learn to love learning in a fun, nurturing environment. Limited spaces are available—learn more and enroll today!
Peridance
126 E.13 St., Manhattan
212-505-0886, sap@peridance.com
peridance.com/sap
Peridance, the East Village’s leading dance school since 1983, builds a warm, inspiring community where young dancers thrive. Serving students ages 18 months to 17 years, Peridance blends top-notch technique with creativity across ballet, jazz, hip hop, tap, modern, and more. Classes are designed to support dancers of all levels, from beginners exploring movement for the first time to advanced students refining their craft. Families trust Peridance for its nurturing environment, passionate instructors, and vibrant programs that foster growth, confidence, and joy both on and off the dance floor. With a long-standing reputation for excellence and inclusivity, Peridance remains a cornerstone of youth dance education in NYC. Fall registration is now open. Discover more at peridance.com.
Play On! Studios
263 West 86th St., Manhattan
3477094149, info@playonstudios.com
playonstudios.com
Play On! Studios provides engaging theater classes after school and on Saturdays on the Upper West Side, offering children an unforgettable experience filled with acting, music, and enjoyment. Young actors rehearse and perform in a showcase or full production, collaborating with professional NYC actors/teaching artists. They develop skills in a supportive, non-competitive setting while participating in various drama games. Classes cater to all skill levels, from beginners to those ready for Broadway. Creative Drama, Theater Lab, Musical Theater Revue, and Musical Theater Performance classes offer varying levels of commitment for children in grades PreK-8, available after school or on Saturdays.
