The 10 Best Kids Afterschool Programs and Activities in Manhattan
Listings are in alphabetical order
Parents know that finding an afterschool program can be challenging. It is all-important. We want the activity portion, the hours, and most significantly, to be an enriching experience for our kids.
There are many reasons, some personal and others obvious (our workload, afterschool stimulation is beneficial for kids), that a parent chooses to place their child in an afterschool program. Thankfully, we live in New York where we have amazing resources. But let’s get Uber-focused on the Manhattan area. As you prepare for the upcoming school year, we have the 10 Best Activity and Afterschool programs standouts for you to choose from that will not only make you happy, but your child too!
Academy at Steps
2121 Broadway, 4th fl.
332-334-4177, academy@stepsnyc.com
stepsnyc.com/academy
The Steps on Broadway Academy provides comprehensive dance education for students ages 2-18. Led by internationally acclaimed faculty members, their classes include ballet, pointe, hip-hop, jazz, theater dance, tap, contemporary, and modern styles. The Steps Academy is home to three divisions which are tailored to suit the needs of a wide range of dance students: First Steps (for ages 2-6), Youth Division (for ages 7-18), and the audition-only Pre-Professional Division (for ages 10-18). Whether your child wishes to dance once a week or aspires to become a professional, the Steps Academy allows for flexibility and empowers all to strive towards excellence. Register for the Fall season today to secure your spot and join a dance community unlike any other.
The Ailey School
405 W. 55th St.
212-405-9000
alvinailey.org/school/first-steps-and-bounding-boys
alvinailey.org/school/programs/junior-division
The Ailey School’s Junior Division offers a highly structured curriculum for conservatory training. Students in the Pre-Professional program (ages 7 to 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 are added to their training such as jazz, Horton, modern, pointe, tap, and West African. In First Steps and Bounding Boys (ages 3 to 6), children develop an understanding between dance, rhythm, and music through a weekly series of fun exercises.
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, for children ages 18 months to 6 years, instills the joy of dance within an environment focused on developing individual potential and creativity through age-appropriate, structured classes. The Primary Division, for First Graders, focuses on developing strength, coordination, and flexibility. The Pre-Professional Division, for ages 7-19, combines comprehensive ballet training with professional-caliber performance opportunities to prepare students for success in the dance world. The Children and Teen Division offers inspiring and enriching dance classes to ages 7-15, with no audition required. For adults, the Open Adult Division offers ballet classes for all levels and abilities as well as fitness classes.
Bloomingdale School of Music
323 West 108th St.
212-663-6021, registrar@bsmny.org
bsmny.org/fall-2024/
Now celebrating 60 years serving generations of New York families, Bloomingdale School of Music is the Upper West Side’s destination for music education. Lessons and classes are available for students of all ages and skill levels, from early childhood to adults, and beginner to college prep. Bloomingdale’s expertly vetted faculty of professional musicians teach over 20 instruments in multiple genres. Private lessons at Bloomingdale offer individual attention, customization, and a personalized curriculum. Call the school to arrange a 30-minute trial lesson for only $30. Other options include beginner group classes, string orchestras, vocal ensembles, guitar orchestras, jazz ensembles, music theory classes, and much more. Enrollment is ongoing, and you can check their website to learn about upcoming sales, promotions, and free family events.
Broadway Dance Center Children and Teens
37 W. 65th St.
212.457.0035, w65info@bwydance.com
broadwaydancecenter.com/children-teens/about-children-teens
Broadway Dance Center Children and Teens offers comprehensive dance education programs for young movers ages 3-18 with over 40 years of experience. Classes are conveniently located at their Lincoln Center facility on W. 65th Street and Times Square studio on W. 45th Street. They provide a variety of programs, including their Annual Program, Fall and Spring Semester Program, as well as summer options including weeklong and day camps, and workshops for advanced dancers. Our mission is to foster a healthy environment where dancers can connect socially and artistically, build confidence, positive self-image, and a strong work ethic. The center is dedicated to educating the whole student, aiming to inspire them to dance and share their passion with others.
Dedimus Potestatem
718-954-1357, info@potestatem.co
potestatem.co
Dedimus Potestatem provides fun, engaging programs that teach coveted leadership skills. Founded by an educator who has worked with local and national governments, UN-affiliated organizations, and nonprofits worldwide, the company is creating the next generation of world leaders. Their students have won awards at local and national tournaments and alumni have created their own national nonprofits, applications, and educational programs. Their offerings include Leadership, Model United Nations, Debate, Mock Trial, Philosophy, Model Congress, Computer Programming, Academic Writing, Financial Literacy, Self-Defense, and more. All programs are student-focused, taught by seasoned educators. Dedimus Potestatem offers programs to elementary, middle, and high school students, both in-person and online. They also offer private group classes and private lessons in New York.
New York City Ninja Academy
625 W. 55th St.
917-903-7535, ninjanewyorkcity@gmail.com
nycninja.com
Every kid wants to be a ninja warrior! New York City Ninja Academy offers unique and fun after school ninja warrior obstacle training classes for kids with fun and challenging ninja warrior obstacles, just like on TV’s American Ninja Warrior. Lessons are taught by certified ninja coaches, some of whom have been featured on the TV show! The progressive program teaches participants how to overcome ninja warrior obstacles by learning new skills and techniques for climbing, swinging, agility, balance, and strength. Kids gain confidence as they master each obstacle, and gain strength. There is no better feeling than the ultimate thrill of hitting the buzzer at the end of a course, complete with exciting sound effects and lights!
The School at Peridance
126 E 13 St.
212-505-0886, sap@peridance.com
peridance.com/sap.cfm
Discover the magic of movement at Peridance, the premier East Village Children’s Dance School that has nurtured creativity and confidence for over 40 years. The expert instructors offer vibrant classes across all skill levels and ages in ballet, hip-hop, jazz, tap, modern, and contemporary. The staff at Peridance is dedicated to providing a supportive environment that fosters lasting skills and encourages every student to reach their full potential. Conveniently located in the heart of Union Square, the school is a hub of artistic activity that is easily accessible. Join in for a transformative journey through dance, where every step helps children grow and shine. Enroll today to give a child the opportunity to thrive on stage and beyond.
Play On! Studios
263 West 86th St.
347-709-4149, info@playonstudios.com
playonstudios.com
Play On! Studios offers theater classes after school and on Saturdays on the UWS that are guaranteed to give kids a great experience full of acting, music, and fun they won’t soon forget. Young actors will rehearse and perform in a showcase or full production, work with professional NYC actors/teaching artists, build up skills in a nurturing, non-competitive environment and play lots of drama games. Their classes are great for beginners or more experienced actors, whether your child is just starting out, or ready for Broadway! Creative Drama, Theater Lab, Musical Theater Revue, and Musical Theater Performance classes all offer different levels of commitment for kids of all ages. Classes are available for grades PreK-8, after school or on Saturdays.
Super Soccer Stars
Multiple Locations in Manhattan
212-877-7171, info@soccerstars.com
soccerstars.com
Soccer Stars has been Manhattan’s #1 soccer provider for 24 years. Their program is designed to develop skills, teamwork, and confidence on the field. Each session is a blend of fun, education, and character development, ensuring that every child finds joy in the game and improves at their own pace. Their coaches are not just seasoned soccer professionals; they are mentors dedicated to inspiring your stars. With a deep understanding of working with children, their coaches make every class engaging and focus on each player’s personal development. Their curriculum is thoughtfully crafted, combining soccer, early childhood learning and life skills. It’s adaptable, catering to various age groups and skill levels, ensuring that every child gets the most out of their soccer experience. Fall registration is now open!
