Editor’s note: Click HERE for expert tips on choosing the right class or program for your child.
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 activities like baseball, soccer, ballet, and martial arts. There are also children’s swim, tumbling, and gymnastics classes, as well as courses for children with special needs. 14streety.org
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 ages 6 and under are offered at 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; and Classical Playdate introducing kids to classical music. abcdoremenyc.com
ACT Programs
At the Cathedral of St John the Divine in Manhattan, ACT Early Years offers affordable, nonsectarian classes for toddlers up to 4 years introduce them to structure, learning, music, art, and cooperation. Specialized Nursery classes include Spanish, Music & Movement, Science, and Games. The ACT experience can continue with day camps and afterschool programs. actprograms.org
Advantage Tennis Club
Offering a QuickStart program, children ages 4 and older can learn the game of tennis in a calmer environment. Your children will start on smaller courts with smaller rackets. All equipment is provided as your child takes part in this program taught by experts. advantagetennisclubs.com
American Museum of Natural History (AMNH)
This iconic museum on the UWS 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 and Broadway Babies, Applause theatrical workshops are designed for kids who love to perform, whether they’re newborns or in grade 12. 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 ages newborn to 5. Their flagship location is in the Chelsea/Flatiron neighborhood, and a second location on the UWS opened in 2012. Both locations feature a state-of-the-art indoor playground with museum-quality exhibits, more than 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, including Rocks, Smocks & Animals (for kids and caregivers), Animal Care, and Farm Foodies Cooking; Monday-Friday drop-in activities, and birthday party options in a variety of themes. theartfarms.org
ArtMuse
ArtMuse offers exceptional art experiences in local museums, galleries, art fairs, and artists’ studios. They offer fun and interactive private tours, for ages 3 and up, that are available based on different themes and exhibitions. artmuseny.com
Asphalt Green
Active kids can head to this sports center 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, and more. There’s also a Sports Performance School (SPS) for ages 7-14 for improving fitness and core strengthening. asphaltgreen.org
Atlantic Acting School
Boasting 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. Kids in pre-K through Kindergarten 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 classes for children and adults of all ages. The programs offered include the Petite Dancer classes for 18 months to 2 years as well as Pre-Ballet, Tap, and Modern for ages 3-6. The primary ballet class for ages 6-7 leads into the Pre-Professional Division for ages 7-19 and the less intensive Enrichment program for ages 7-12. Adults and teens of all levels can join the many ballet, tap, jazz, modern, Zumba, yoga, and Pilates classes, which are offered seven days a week. baenyc.com
The Ballet Club
The Ballet Club is a unique program that offers professional training in a nurturing environment, as well as a foundation of life skills and intellectual stimulation. It includes the Children’s Creative Dance Club Division for ages 3-8, and the Performing Arts Pre-Professional Division for more intensive study for students ages 7 and older. Classes incorporate classical technique with a modern approach and emphasize technique, creativity, choreography, and performance. 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 more than 25 classes a week in ballet, flamenco, hip hop, and salsa, as well as training in varied Latin American dance traditions. ballethispanico.org
Barrow Group Acting School
The Barrow Group Acting School offers teen and tween acting classes in Manhattan and Brooklyn, including afterschool, weekend, and on-camera film/TV kids’ acting classes. During the summer they offer a more intensive youth acting program. These classes are taught by experienced Barrow Group actors and teachers. Teens and tweens learn how to break down a script and how to be more natural in their performances. barrowgroup.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
Book Nook
Children ages 2-5 can experience Book Nook’s warm and welcoming environment—which promises to create a place to learn that little ones will love. Located on the Upper West Side, this program teaches your children responsibility and developmental skills, starting at a young age. booknooknyc.com
Bounce & Flip
Learn the art of gymnastics and tumbling with trained instructors in Midtown West. Children ages 1-16 can experience all that the gym has to offer using trampolines, a tumble track, the foam pit, and a rock wall. Private lessons are offered along with customized birthday parties. bounceandflip.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 percent off retail price. Last year, 90 percent of clients qualified for G & T programs. brightkidsnyc.com
Broadway Dance Center
Young dancers receive elite training from leading dance teachers and choreographers in Broadway Dance Center’s 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 levels are also offered. broadwaydancecenter.com
Brooklyn Boulders
For the adventurous kid in your family, Brooklyn Boulders offers its daily Kids Academy program. Ages 5-12 will learn the basics of bouldering, top-rope rock climbing, and slack-lining in a safe and encouraging environment. Plus, parents will love the fact that climbing can increase concentration, strengthen problem-solving skills, and improve hand-eye coordination. brooklynboulders.com
Carousel of Languages
Kids ages 6 months to 12 years can learn one of many foreign languages, including Spanish, French, Italian, Mandarin, Hebrew, and Russian at Carousel of Languages, located on both the Upper East and West Sides. An afterschool program allows kids to continue their linguistic studies, and 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 months to 2 years with their 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, football, dance, and gymnastics. Also on the menu: Ice hockey and ice skating at the Sky Rink, fitness classes, soccer, tennis, and rock climbing. chelseapiers.com
Child’s Play NY
Budding thespians learn the craft of acting by reinterpreting classic and contemporary children’s literature at Child’s Play NY in Brooklyn’s Carroll Gardens and Brooklyn Heights. Afterschool classes for ages 3-5 and 4-6 are offered alongside summer intensives and in-school residencies for ages 3-5 and 6-9, in which kids explore storytelling, song, creative movement, theater games, and improvisation. childsplayny.com
Children’s Museum of the Arts (CMA)
Professional teaching artists lead age-appropriate classes in fine art and media making at CMA in Tribeca. Multi-sensory WeeArt classes for babies up to age 5 develop fine and gross motor skills. Kids ages 5-12 can sign up for afterschool classes like drawing, sculpting, photography, 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
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 such as Piano Discovery, Drawing, Painting & Sculpture, Drumming of the World, Improv & Theater, and Creative Arts Club. churchstreetschool.org
Citibabes
Located in SoHo, this family membership club offers age-appropriate classes for kids ages 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. 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 (2 and up) through teens, includes singing, dancing, theater, storytelling, games, and Disney films in Italian. Kids ages 8-12 can even create a play and perform it all on stage in Italian. 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 10-12 months up to 12 years. The 3,000-square-ft 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
ConstructionKids
ConstructionKids afterschool classes are for both experienced and new builders ages 2-8. Children learn basic tool safety and how to assemble materials in these active, creative classes. Children work with blueprints, learn the history and context of building traditions, and work with a variety of materials. Vacation camps and home-school options are also offered. constructionkids.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 2 and up make neon wrap bracelets, wallets and pocketbooks, multimedia self-portraits, and so much more. There’s something for everyone, available in the studio, your school, or other spaces. craftstudionyc.com
Creative Play for Kids
This music, movement, and play program for ages 3 months to 3 years is offered at several locations throughout Manhattan. Little ones will enjoy singing, dancing, open play, stories, and instrument playing. Music-and-art combo classes are also available. creativeplayforkids.com
Cumbe Center for African and Diaspora Dance
Children ages 1-5 can enroll in creative movement classes at the Cumbe Center’s Brooklyn venues. Classes focus on African rhythms, stories, drumming, songs, and games to engage children in a safe environment. cumbedance.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 newborns to age 14. At each age, kids have a variety of activities to choose from. Classes include Art for Tots, ballet and jazz, gymnastics (including Baby Gym & Music and Gym for Tots), Sumo Samurai, soccer, Parkour, and more. There’s also an open gym and art studio. discoveryprograms.com
East Side Tae Kwon Do
At this Upper East Side gym, kids ages 3 and up learn martial arts training in Tae Kwon Do. A Korean Ninja Warriors class, a black belt class, and competition training 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
EBL Coaching
EBL Coaching offers afterschool and weekend courses for students in grades pre-K-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. Summer courses and specialized programs for students with learning disabilities and ADHD are also available. eblcoaching.com
Fastbreak Sports
Fastbreak offers a variety of developmental sports programming for all levels from ages 2-18. The 7,000-square-ft indoor facility on the Upper East Side includes a state-of-the-art basketball court, private training area, parent viewing area, and party room. With basketball, baseball, flag football, soccer, lacrosse, floor hockey, and more, there’s something for every active city kid. fastbreakkids.com
French Institute Alliance Française (FIAF)
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 ages 2 and up 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 private classes for parents like Caregivers Cook and Moms Night Out Cooking Class. freshmadenyc.com
Fukasa Kai Martial Arts
Through martial arts, your child can build confidence, self- control, and inner peace. Students will receive different belts based on their level of skill and learning. Classes are offered after school on weekdays and held at several locations around the city. fukasakai.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-5 get a serious workout during 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. No previous German language knowledge is required. 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 for 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 7 months to 13 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 Kids in the Kitchen. gymtime.net
Hands On!
Using a special instrument-based curriculum, this music studio introduces infants, toddlers, and preschoolers to popular folk tunes, nursery rhymes, and lullabies. Hands On! Musical Experience classes feature stories with puppets, music, instrument exploration, and movement. handsonformusic.com
HiArt!
This art studio in Chelsea features a variety of classes that inspire kids. Ages 2-8 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 painting, sculpting, and manga drawing. 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 7 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
HudsonWay Immersion School
HudsonWay Immersion School starts a new semester of its hands-on and interactive After School Enrichment (for kids in pre-K and K-2) in the fall. Classes are offered in both Mandarin and English. hwis.org
I’m Bilingual
Interested in teaching your child another language? I’m Bilingual 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
Intellectual Kids Club
Intellectual Kids Club is an interactive and immersive program of enrichment for pre-K through high school. They provide education through entertaining and original methods in the greatest world literature and drama, philosophy and inquiry, mythology, operas, ballets, art history and scientific achievements through inspiring biographies, creative writing, playwriting, and more. intellectualkidsclub.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 5 years and their parents, teaches improvisation and lets kids jam with a live quartet, swing to nursery rhymes, and more. jazz.org
The JCC 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 over 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, and grades K-6), gym and music combos, dance, fitness, 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 Youth Ballet Program is also offered for ages 8.5 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. Pre- and post-natal yoga, CircusYoga, and private sessions are also available. 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. Private lessons and birthday parties are also available. ktuga.com
Kick & Play
Introduce your toddler, ages 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. kickandplay.com
Kids at Art
Kids at Art is one of NYC’s premiere art studios for children. They focus on the basics of visual arts, with age-appropriate projects for ages 2 and up in painting, drawing, collage, and much more, all in a nurturing environment. 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 while Cooking with Julie, or toddle around a toddler ballet class. Sun Sessions at a local park incorporate 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 8 years. Learn the fundamentals of baseball, basketball, flag football, floor hockey, soccer, and volleyball through multi- sport or sport-specific classes. Kids In Sports also offers two indoor camps for different age groups (ages 2.5-3 and 4-6) and an outdoor camp for ages 4-8. 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, with locations throughout Manhattan and Brooklyn. Choose from 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
Kumon
Kumon is the world’s largest afterschool math and reading program. The Kumon Method has helped millions of children achieve more than they ever thought they could. At Kumon, your child will build skills that lead to success inside and outside the classroom. kumon.com
La Scuola Di’Italia
The Scuola Marterna Preschool program is designed for the pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten years. It focuses on the development of the child from an intellectual, cognitive, social, emotional, spiritual, and physical standpoint—all with bilingual Italian/English instruction. lascuoladitalia.org
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. They also offer Kids MusicRound classes. Located on the Upper East Side and in Manhasset. languageworkshopforchildren.com
Launch Math & Science Centers
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 ages 3-5 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
Let’s Gogh Art
Let your children express their creativity through art. Children ages 2-12 can engage in art in multiple ways at Let’s Gogh Art. Whether your children are painting, dancing, or creating stories, the fun never seems to end. Let’s Gogh Art is offered at several locations throughout New York City and also hosts birthday parties with an abundance of themes. nyletsgoghart.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 offers gymnastics, sports, karate, and dance classes for ages 4 months to 12 years. Its gymnastics program has been specially designed to help children reach developmental milestones in a structured environment that combines gymnastics with fun. Five co-ed gymnastics 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 5-14. 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. Family classes are also available. loopoftheloom.com
Lucy Moses School at the Kaufman Music Center
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 of New York City and Westchester
Mad Science sparks imaginative learning for ages 3-10 with STEM-focused topics like Color Lab, Wacky Waves, Dinosaurs, Magnificent 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
MAGIC Activity Center
MAGIC offers one of NYC’s most comprehensive enrichment programs, with a wide array of classes in its MAP program (early-preschool and 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. magicactivitycenter.com
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 and plaster painting, and feature mediums like candles, soap, glass, ceramics, and more. You can also get creative with your crew in one of their stunningly designed private party spaces for all ages. Located on the Upper East Side. makemeaning.com
Manhattan Mandarin
At Manhattan Mandarin on the Upper East Side, parent & me classes are offered for children ages 1-3 and their caregivers. Here they will be taught Mandarin through songs with their moms. Children ages 4-5 can take classes that focus on the vocabulary of the Chinese language in a fun and educational manner. nycmandarin.com
Manhattan Tennis Academy
As your child’s skills grow in tennis, their equipment will change along with their instruction. As they become more familiar with the sport, they will start to learn more fundamentals. Manhattan Tennis is located in Midtown and offers indoor classes for children ages 4-16. manhattantennisacademy.com
Mathnasium
With various locations throughout NYC, 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
MusiBambino Music & Dance Program
Starting at a young age, children can immerse themselves in music and dance at MusiBambino. Music classes are offered for children ages 4 months to 5 years. Youngsters will start out with sing-alongs and eventually learn to play instruments. Dance classes are also offered for children ages 2.5-5. musibambino.com
Music for Aardvarks and Other Mammals
Children ages 6 months to 5 years will enjoy singing, dancing, musical storytelling, 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
My Gym, which has five franchise locations throughout NYC, has a history of building children’s self-esteem and nurturing a love of fitness and activity through fun. Gym and movement classes are offered in a clean, safe, and fun environment for children 6 weeks to 9 years. Member benefits include unlimited summer classes and free plays as well as exclusive savings on Parents’ Night Out, summer camp, and birthday parties. mygym.com
National Academy Museum & School
The Academy’s art classes for young students incorporate drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpture, mixed media, and portfolio development 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 Code + Design Academy
The New York Code + Design Academy offers programs designed for teens 13-18 without any prior experience in web design or development—including their Web Development for Teens afterschool course, which provides instruction in the core skills and technologies of web development including HTML, CSS, and JavaScript with some Ruby. nycda.com
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 Jedi
The force is alive and well here in NYC, thanks to the New York Jedi and their SaberKids program. SaberKids, which is described as a “juniors and tweens stage combat class for learning the art of Light Saber,” launched in Manhattan last summer and is going strong. The lightsaber classes for kids ages 7-13 combine a love of all things “Star Wars” with actual technical stage combat know-how. newyorkjedi.com & saberkids.com
New York Theatre Ballet
Ballet School NY, the official training academy of New York Theatre Ballet, offers graded classes for ages 3 and up at its new location in the East Village. The school teaches dance as a total art form, developing strong technical skill and discipline. Classes are kept small, with teaching assistants in every class to guarantee highly individualized instruction. For qualified students, the School’s relationship with NYTB provides unique performing opportunities throughout the year in ballets featuring roles for children. nytb.org
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 ages 2-15 to explore parks, museums, and attractions through the Backpacks and Binoculars Camps. nycityexplorers.com
NY Kids Club
Sign your child up for classes at one of these eleven children’s enrichment centers, located throughout Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens. There are baby fitness and music classes for infants ages 2-5 months, plus a variety of classes for preschoolers and school-age children. Choose from art, music, dance/theater, fitness, cooking, science, Spanish, or combo classes. nykidsclub.com
NYChessKids
One of the largest youth chess programs available, NYChessKids spreads its love for the classic game through organized tournaments and afterschool chess programs throughout the city. nychesskids.com
Pazzi Pasta
In addition to being a great family-friendly destination for dining in Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn, Pazzi Pasta offers pasta-making classes throughout the year. Past examples of classes include: Potato Gnocchi & Squash Gnocchi with Sun Dried Tomato Pesto; Baked Pasta—How to Make & Assemble the Perfect Meat and Vegetable; and Stuffed Pasta—Ravioli, Tortellini, and Caramelle. pazzipasta.com
Peridance Capezio Center
The renowned School at Peridance has been recognized as a pioneer in dance education. The PeriChild Program for students ages 6-12 features a progressive interdisciplinary approach to dance training, emphasizing a thorough understanding of various dance techniques while promoting self-expression and creativity. Teens (ages 13-17) enrolled in the PeriTeen Program will learn styles such as ballet, modern, jazz, tap, hip hop, musical theater, salsa, and African. There’s also a Young Movers program for ages 18 months-5 years and a Pre-Professional Training program for ages 7.5-16. 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 at the Pine Street School with swim instruction, an educational art program, and exciting sports activities every day. 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 2s with adults enjoy frequent contact and a daily routine of singing and dancing, playing with toys, arts and crafts, a 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, Mommy & Me Yoga, Infant Massage, and a Breastfeeding Support Circle, all conducted in a calm, peaceful environment. 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. Birthday parties are also available. privatepicassos.com
RoboFun
Children ages 3-12 will love building robots using LEGOs. During LEGO Pre-Robotics, parents of kindergarteners can join in on the fun and create a battery-powered robot together. Using creativity, children can build their own robots using motors and sensors during LEGO Robotics. In Stop Motion Animation, children in grades 4-6 can create their own animations using their own script and designs. robofun.org
Royal Athletic Swimming
Royal Athletic offers a variety of class levels from Beginner to Swim Team. Their program, which has locations throughout Manhattan and Brooklyn, is designed for swimmers to move smoothly from one level to the next as they progress in their swimming capabilities. royalswim.com
Rutgers Community Programs
Focusing on social, emotional and cognitive development, children will enjoy all that these programs have to offer. Categories include Arts & Crafts, Chinese Language & Culture, Music, Movement & Dance, and Sports. Workshops and discussion groups are offered for parents as well, helping them through the stages of parenthood. Additionally, the On My Own Playgroup helps toddlers adjust to being on their own with hands-on activities and allowing children to work at their own pace. rutgerschurch.org
The School at Steps
The School at Steps cultivates young dancers, ages 3 months to 18 years, from their first step in a dance studio through their pre-professional training. Students discover their individual artistic voices in a creative environment with the guidance of an internationally recognized faculty. The personal attention the school provides encourages students to mature as dancers, grow as individuals, and enrich their passion for the art form. School at Steps graduates go on to dance with professional companies, study at top college dance programs, and perform on Broadway. stepsnyc.com
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
Shooting Stars NYC
Shooting Stars NYC is an award-winning company centered around the genres of hip-hop, jazz precision, Broadway dance, and lyrical. Dancers can start competing at age 6, and girls under 6 can take non-competitive classes. For ages 3-5 there’s a class called Rising Stars, with the next level being a class called Little Stars for ages 5-7. After that, all teams for ages 7-18 are competitive. shootingstarsnyc.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 basketball 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 ratio. 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 one’s self, 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-ft 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 and Brooklyn Heights 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. Through 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. 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 it to the New York International Children’s Film Festival. Cameras, audio and editing software and other equipment are provided. taketwofilmacademy.com
Tennis Innovators
Starting at a young age, children can learn the basics of tennis and become interested in the sport. Lessons are taught by trained instructors creating a positive energy towards the sport. There are seven different Tennis Innovators locations throughout New York City. tennisinnovators.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. A music-inspired art class and Spanish and French language immersion music classes are also available. 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), and the Children’s Program for beginners, intermediate and advanced (ages 6-11) students. Teen and adult classes are also available. westsidetkd.com
Wildlife Conservation Society
Spend time learning at the zoo! Children will discover the natural world around them in this exciting wildlife adventure at classes at NYC’s zoos. Youngsters will participate in a variety of hands-on activities including live animal encounters, exhibit visits, crafts, and more! wcs.org/programs
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
Yorkville Youth Athletic Association (YYAA)
The goal at YYAA is for kids to have fun playing sports. Their programs operate all week long, for boys and girls in grades pre-K-12. YYAA exists to serve the children and families of New York City through quality programs that promote community and friendship. Their motto is: “Competition, Camaraderie, and Community.” yyaa.org
