Multi-Service Venues
14th Street Y
The 14th Street Y offers a full spectrum of fitness, Mommy and Me, early childhood, afterschool, summer camp and family arts programming. In addition to their award-winning preschool and their signature “2×2” program, they recently launched “Now We Are Three” (for the almost 3 years old set) and weekend family programming for children with special needs. 344 East 14th Street, 212-780-0800, 14streety.org. (Ages newborn to 18 years)
92nd Street Y
92Y’s “Wonderplay” offers age-appropriate classes for children under 5, plus parent get-togethers and family activities like cooking. A new membership option offers savings, exclusive access, and a place in the Wonderplay community. After-school classes, private instruction, music ensembles and dance troupes are offered for children ages 6-18. 92Y also offers kids’ fitness and sports classes like “Fitness Fusion.” This month, Creative Broadway Kids introduces little ones to jazz and tap, to help develop rhythmic coordination. 1395 Lexington Avenue, 212-415-5500, 92Y.org. (Ages newborn to 18 years)
Apple seeds
Apple seeds is an all-in-one play space featuring over 100 different children’s classes per week, a children’s boutique, unique birthday parties, an award-winning day camp, a kid-friendly café and a kid’s hair salon. The newest addition to the class lineup is bookworms, a book club for kids. With books, kids can explore faraway places, make new friends, learn and most importantly share quality time with parents and caretakers. 10 West 25th Street, appleseedsnyc.com. (Ages newborn to 5 years)
Art Farm in the City
Children’s classes cover live animals, music, art, baking and more. The adult participation class “Rock, Smocks and Animals” includes music, art, storytime and up-close animal encounters. Every other week the class will pull out the paint, glue, feathers, sand and more to create an animal masterpiece. The after-school club Animal Care educates children about live animals and how to care for them. Art, Adventures and More is a sophisticated Art Class where children create masterpieces on canvas and learn various artistic styles. 419 East 91st Street, 212-410-3117, theartfarms.org. (Ages 14 months to 8 years)
Asphalt Green
Asphalt Green’s first-class curriculum inspires, educates and provides the tools to build lifetime sports skills and fitness habits for all ages on our 5.5-acre Upper East Side campus. We have expert instruction in soccer, flag football, gymnastics, baseball, martial arts, and swimming. Join us this summer for Summer Day Camp, AG Elite Sports Camps and our Jump Into Summer Camp! 555 East 90th Street, 212-369-8890, asphaltgreen.org. (Ages 4 months to 16 years)
Bronx Zoo
The Bronx Zoo has great programs for kids this summer. “Pablo Python Looks at Animals” introduces children to animal sizes, shapes, colors, textures, patterns, locomotion, and diet. In this five-day adventure, children will go on safari to the African Plains, observe butterflies in the Butterfly Garden, ride the Bug Carousel, and have up-close encounters with animals. Animal Kingdom Camp is a journey of sorts through Madagascar during which children will learn ways to protect animals and habitats and then have a chance to teach zoo visitors what they’ve learned. 2300 Southern Boulevard, 718-220-5100, bronxzoo.com. (All Ages)
Central Park Zoo
The Central Park Zoo offers family educational programming like Toddler Time Series. Little ones can meet a variety of furry, scaly, and feathery zoo animals in these interactive classes for toddlers and their caregivers. Youngsters will compare how animals feel, move, and even eat. Live animals, movement and musical activities, and crafts are part of the fun. Youth programs also include Animal Adventures, Penguin Exploration, Junior Keepers and Be a Wildlife Photographer! Southeast Corner of Central Park, 212-439-6500, centralparkzoo.com. (All Ages)
Chelsea Piers
From gymnastics to golf and ice skating to basketball, Chelsea Piers has it all. Not only does the complex offer sports for kids and adults of all ages, but it also recently added a hair salon, Chelsea Shears, new birthday party options including Glamour and Dance parties, and additional drop-in programs including the popular Rock-N-Roll. This year, the Golf Club built an Elite Junior Program for advanced young golfers and Skating School at Sky Rink is more popular than ever with classes year-round. 23rd Street & the Hudson River, 212-336-6666, chelseapiers.com. (All Ages)
Children’s Museum of Manhattan (CMOM)
CMOM is a wonderful combination of interactive exhibits (PlayWorks™ for newborns – 4 years) and learning opportunities for newborns to kids 6 & older. Enrollment offerings include a great Parent/Child class for 18 months – 2 years (Preschool Adventures), two Gentle Separation classes for 2-3 years (Preschool Prep or Preschool Steps) or three Drop-Off classes for 3-6 years (Art Adventures, Science Sampler or Modern Masters). 212 West 83rd Street, 212-721-1223, cmom.org. (Ages 6 months to 6 years)
Church Street School for Music and Art
Church Street School for Music and Art is the only community school for the arts in downtown Manhattan offering music and art experiences for all ages. Programs include: Music and Movement, Visual Arts, Arts Express Preschool and Pre-K Program, Afterschool Arts Academy, Private and Group Instrumental Lessons, Rock Band, and Weekend Drop-in Classes. 74 Warren Street, 212-571-7290, churchstreetschool.org. (Ages 16 months and up)
Citibabes
The deluxe downtown family membership club offers a full array of children’s and family classes, including art, cooking, dance, language, music, yoga, sports, and science. Citibabes has some exciting new classes this year including CitiChefs, where citichefs prepare a wide range of delectable dishes that are healthy and fun to make all while learning about measurements; CitiDance: Pop! where children are introduced to the exciting world of dance; and CitiMix, a special combination of CitiArt and CitiSongs. 52 Mercer Street, 3rd Floor, 212-334-5440, citibabes.com. (Ages 3 months to 10 years).
Columbus Gym
Columbus Gym’s Tiny Tot Fitness Program concentrates on balance, coordination, and fine motor skills along with sports, props, and circle time. Mini gym/super gym classes provide an introduction to basic skills using all pieces of apparatus (vault, balance beam, bars, floor, and trampoline). 606 Columbus Avenue, 212-721-0090, columbusgymnyc.com. (Ages 12 months to 12 years)
Discovery Programs
Discovery Programs offers a wide range of innovative and arts-based classes that inspire, educate and nurture children of all ages. Early Childhood Programs include Almost On My Own, On My Own, Practically Preschool and Summer Camp. 251 West 100th Street, 212-749-8717, discoveryprograms.com. (Ages newborn to tween)
Gymboree Play & Music
Classes offered at six sites throughout Manhattan. Choose from: Play & Learn–Gymboree’s most popular class! Grown-ups and little ones work to encourage development through play. Art, Music, Sports–Drop-off classes that inspire imagination & healthy living. School Skills/Bubble Camp–Pre-school alternative. Develop social and intellectual skills. Various locations in Manhattan, 877-496-5327, gymboreeclasses.com. (Ages newborn to 5 years)
Gymtime Rhythm & Glues
Gymtime Rhythm & Glues offers best-in-class early childhood enrichment and movement classes. Gymtime’s premiere class offerings include Art, Music, Cooking, Educational-Movement, Gymnastics, Tae Kwon Do, and much more! The beautifully renovated 25,000 square feet facility has a new upstairs 5,000 square-foot Gymnastics Center, HEPA air filtration system, Energy Efficient Lighting, Allergen Free Carpeting, Green Cleaning Products, and more. 1520 York Avenue, 212-861-7732, gymtime.net. (Ages 6 months to 12 years)
The JCC in Manhattan
The JCC’s menu of activities is full of classes in art, dance, cooking, chess, computers, science, special needs, theater, and more. Sports classes, including yoga, karate and swimming, are also offered. Basketball courts are available for teams and pick-up games. 334 Amsterdam Avenue, 646-505-4444, jccmanhattan.org. (Ages newborn to 18 years)
Jodi’s Gym
Jodi’s Gym has been providing fun, friends and fitness to New York kids for 30 years. Programs for children 9 months-5th grade include: Teeny Tumblers, Mighty Muscle Movers, Rockin’ Rollers, Tumbling Tots, Creative Cartwheeling Kids, Fun-Tastic Gymnastics, Accelerated & Advanced Gymnastics, Totally Tumbling, Motion Evolution and Creation Station Dance classes! Jodi’s also offers free open play to members, Jodi’s Gym Perks, playgroups, Jodi’s To Go, as well as summer and holiday camps. 244 East 84th Street, 212-772-7633, jodisgym.com. (Ages 9 months-12 years)
Kids at Work
Kids at Work offers an all drop-in schedule of Mommy-and-me classes in music, movement and sensory art. PlayGroups and Camp programs as well as Open Play are also offered in Chelsea and the WestVillage. Classes focus on process-oriented and age-appropriate activities and include Mess It Up—a sensory-based art and science class for active, curious children. 242 West 27th Street, #4A, 212-488-8800, kidsatworknyc.com. (Ages newborn to 4 years)
Kidville
Kidville operates upscale facilities, catering to young children and their families. In addition to offering developmental classes, including Little Maestros, Run Wiggle Paint & Giggle, My Big Messy Art Class, Kidville Sports and Kidville University (Kidville’s Pre-School Alternative Program), Kidville also features an indoor playspace, a retail boutique, the Kidville Salon and birthday parties. Various locations in Manhattan, 212-772-8435, kidville.com. (Ages newborn to 5 years)
Manhattan Movement & Arts Center
Kids can take classes in different genres of dance, pursue their love for the stage in musical theater classes, or join the circus in their Circus Arts program. MMAC also offers dance, music, art, movement and fitness, and the Afro-Brazilian martial art known as Capoeira. Kids can get a taste of everything MMAC has to offer in their performing arts intensive during the month of July. 248 West 60th Street, 212-787-1178, manhattanmovement.com. (Ages 6 weeks to teens)
Moomah
Moomah is a beautifully designed cafe in Tribeca, serving up wholesome, healthy and delicious food for adults and kids alike. Drop-in art projects are always available and carefully designed by local artists and educators. Imaginative classes abound, from a music class featuring a song written about your child to animation to adult craft evenings. There’s even Counter Culture coffee and wine for the big kids. 161 Hudson Street, 212-226-0345, moomah.com.
Musical Kids International
Children engage in language immersion activities through music, art, dance, puppets and games using the “I’m Bilingual” approach, designed by award-winning educator Yolanda Borrás. Toddlers may also opt to attend MKI’s unique Immersion Preschool Alternative program. French and other languages are available, as well. 1296 Lexington Avenue, 212-996-5898, musicalkids.net. (Ages 6 months to 10 years)
New York Kids Club
The New York Kids Club, now in its tenth season, is New York’s premier children enrichment center renowned for creative and innovative kids classes, day camps, birthday celebrations, and special events! Children enjoy a variety of exciting enrichment classes including gymnastics, ballet, cooking, martial arts, preschool musical, rock climbing, art, music, and sports time. Various locations in Manhattan, 347-706-4700, nykidsclub.com. (Ages 6 months to 12 years)
Poppyseed Pre-Nursery
Offers classes for children in arts and crafts, music, singing and dancing. They also feature a “Mommy and me” program and nursery school. Classes meet two to three times a week and include participation of a parent or caregiver. 424 West End Avenue at 81st Street, 212-877-7614. (Ages 1 to 3 years)
Reebok Sports Club/NY and The Sports Club/LA
“For Kids Only” also offers enrichment programs for both members and non-members. Created with a developmental approach to learning, parents can choose from: Summer and Fall Tennis, Just For Me 2’s Separation Program, and Fall Mighty Muscles (at The Sports Club/LA-UES), and Outdoor Summer Camp, Summer Tennis Camp, Fall Zumba, and Fall After School Sports (at Reebok Sports Club/NY). Reebok Sports Club/NY: 160 Columbus Avenue, 212-362-6800; The Sports Club/LA: 330 East 61st Street, 212-355-5100, thesportsclubla.com. (Ages 6 months to 12 years)
74th St. MAGIC
Offers engaging classes in music, art, gymnastics, cooking, science and preschool alternatives, all housed in the same building as Epiphany Community Nursery School. Be sure to check out Busy Bee Time, a unique “on my own” class that gives children the opportunity to explore a variety of activities as part of first-time separation. Fall semester begins September 14. 510 East 74th Street, 212-737-2989, 74magic.com. (Ages 6 months to early teens)
Two By Two Preschool
Two By Two Preschool offers mommy and me, infant, toddler, preschool, prekindergarten, kindergarten, and afterschool programs. Incorporating Montessori, Reggio Emilia, creative curriculum and high scope philosophies, Two By Two strives to achieve preschool, dramatic arts and academic enrichment for students. 441 Grand Street, Brooklyn, 718-812-1910, 2by2preschool.net. (Ages 6 weeks to 14 years)
YMCA
Today, there are 19 YMCA branches throughout the five boroughs. A strong focus of the centers is on youth, swimming, karate, music, art, dance and various sports lessons are offered at each branch. For YMCA locations and class listings, visit the YMCA of Greater New York website. Various locations in Manhattan, 212-630-9600, ymcanyc.org. (Ages 6 months and up)
Arts & Crafts
ArtKids
Children can visit over 25 different museums and galleries in New York City for interactive, fun and educational art tours completed with related art projects. Book private family tours, group tours, book club tours, vacation tours, birthday tours and special thematic tours. 646-785-9759, artmuseny.com. (Ages 3.5 to 12 years)
Children’s Museum of the Arts (CMA)
Hands-on art and music classes are offered to preschoolers. Older children learn about animation, Japanese art, theatre and fine art techniques. 182 Lafayette Street, 212-274-0986, cmany.org. (Ages 10 months to 12 years)
Color Me Mine
From kindergarten through 8th grade (ages 3 to 13 years), children can learn how pottery works and use colors to paint pottery in one of summer classes at Color Me Mine Tribeca studio. 92 Reade Street, 212-374-1710, tribeca.colormemine.com. (Ages 3 to 13 years)
The Craft Studio
Exciting seasonal workshops and drop-in painting sessions accommodate both the flexible and those pressed for time. For the walk-in painting, children choose a piece of plaster, ceramic, terra-cotta, canvas, or wood on which to paint their own masterpiece. Each month also offers a special seasonal walk-in like real pumpkins, herb gardens, etc. 1657 Third Avenue, 212-831-6626, craftstudionyc.com. (Ages 3 years and up)
Hi Art!
Now in its fifteenth year, the city’s most exhilarating arts immersion offers some of the snazziest classes on the planet for kids of all ages! From the renowned Opera ‘N Art -alternating hands-on art opera museum and gallery visits for kids as little as 2, to the most incredible bigger kids programs: Manga, Madly Mixed Mixed Media, Paint with Ellen Berkenblit, and more! 227 West 29th Street, Studio 4R, 212-209-1552, hiartkids.com. (Ages 17 months to 14 years)
Kids at Art
Kids at Art focuses on the basics of visual arts, with age-appropriate art projects for ages 2-11. Classes are limited in size so that each child receives individual attention. They now offer a summer-camp workshop for ages 4 . Or create your own class for 5-10 children, one time or once a week! Kids at Art offers fantastically creative birthday parties too. 431 East 73rd Street (at Little Shop of Crafts), 212-410-9780, kidsatartnyc.com. (Ages 2 to 11 years)
Loop of the Loom
Artistic growth is encouraged through the creation of various handmade crafts such as weaving, fashion sewing, dying, and felting from natural fiber. At Loop of the Loom boys and girls experience, learn and grow as fiber artists! This weaving studio teaches children the art of Saori, a type of weaving that emphasizes free expression and results in one-of-a-kind pieces. A calming environment with over 500 different colors of yarn. 227 East 87th Street, 212-722-2686, loopoftheloom.com. (Ages 5 and up)
Make Meaning
Make Meaning is a first of its kind destination for fun with creativity for kids and adults! Featuring six different creative Experiences (Glass, Candles, Paper, Ceramics, Soap, and Jewelry), guests of all ages can get busy with a myriad of interactive, hands-on activities. Make Meaning also offers private parties, a café and retail boutique. 329 Columbus Avenue, 212.362.0350, makemeaning.com. (For All Ages)
Metropolitan Moms
This culture-themed social group for moms and kids takes part in regular private museum tours, gallery walks, architectural and historical neighborhood walks, artist studio visits, culinary excursions and more—all with their little ones in tow! Activities are available for moms of babies, toddlers and school-aged kids. 212-206-7272, metropolitanmoms.com. (Ages newborn to adult)
Scribble Press
At this “make your own book” store, kids can write and illustrate their own books and collaborate on calendars, crafts and games. Like Glee? Then you’ll love Scribble Press’s brand new songwriting class. Budding music stars will create and record their own song and explore the power of music to tell a story. We will have a blast using classic rock and pop songs to learn about rhythm and rhyme. 1624 First Avenue, 212-288-2928, scribblepress.com.
Cooking
Cook With Class
Chef Rob Endelman offers cooking classes in the comfort of your own home with his private one-on-one and group lessons for children 6 years and older. 163 Amsterdam Avenue, #318, 917-704-9056, cookwithclass.net. (Ages 6 years and up)
Taste Buds
Calling all chefs! With creative and unique cooking classes for kids and families ages 2-teen, Taste Buds has something for everyone. Moms call it, “an absolute blast” for their kids! Don’t miss their semester and holiday classes, summer camps and birthday parties – each event is a unique lip-smacking culinary adventure. 109 West 27th Street, 212-242-2248, tastebudscook.com. (Ages 2 to 16 years)
Home Cooking New York
Class offerings: Teens Cooking Camp, French BistroF, Fresh Pasta Workshop, The Sweet Basics, Thai Favorites, Farmers’ Market Cooking, How to Cook Fish, and cooking birthday parties for all ages. 236 West 26th Street, 917-803-6857, homecookingny.com. (Ages 8 and up)
The Institute of Culinary Education
Offers classes in French pastry, one-pot family meals, lunch box meals from around the globe, family sushi for parents and teens, pizza-making, cake-decorating, cupcakes and Brazilian and Thai cooking. 50 West 23rd Street, 1-800-522-4610, rec.iceculinary.com. (Ages 10 years and up)
Dance
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater
Two-year-olds will love the Ailey Extension’s Tiny Steps creative movement program while teens ages 12-17 can enjoy Teen Extension, high energy classes in Ballet, Hip-Hop, Jazz and Samba/Afro-Brazilian. All levels welcome. Weekly classes taught in a “no-pressure” environment allows students to gain confidence in their dancing abilities and in themselves. 405 West 55th Street, 212-405-9500, aileyextension.com. (Ages 3 to 17 years)
American Youth Dance Theater
Classes in pre-ballet, classical ballet, tap, jazz, musical theater/Broadway, hip-hop, modern dance and flamenco for ages 2.5 to teens. 428 East 75th Street, 2nd Floor, 212-717-5419, americanyouthdancetheater.com. (Ages 2.5 years through teens)
Ballet Academy East
Ballet Academy East offers classes to both children and adults of all levels. The programs include the pre-professional ballet division for ages 7-18, pre-ballet, tap and modern for ages 3-6, Mother & Child classes for 2-years-olds and adult ballet, tap, Pilates and yoga. Summerdance immerses children ages 4-8 in fun and creative activities mainly centering on the arts. Activities include ballet, tap, jazz, musical theater, art, drama, swimming, cooking, origami, yoga, Zumba and more! 1651 Third Avenue, 3rd Floor, 212-410-9140, baenyc.com. (Ages 2 years to adult)
The Ballet Club
The Ballet Club is a unique ballet 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 and the Performing Arts Pre-professional Division. The Ballet Club also specializes in ballet training tailored for figure skaters. 328 East 61st Street, 2nd Floor, 212-204-6348, theballetclub.com. (Ages 3 to 18 years)
Ballet Hispanico
This venue offers a balanced curriculum in ballet, Spanish dance and creative movement. Pre-professional classes are also available. The Ballet Hispanico Dance Explorers Camp engages boys and girls ages 6-9 in the balanced exploration of dance and the culture of Latin America and Spain. Students receive excellent instruction, grounding in primary techniques, and specialized exposure to this rich cross-section of dance traditions. 167 West 89th Street, 212-362-6710, ballethispanico.org. (Ages 2.5 years to adult)
Joffrey Ballet School
The Children’s Division offers classes in creative movement (ages 3-4), pre-ballet (ages 5-7) and ballet or intermediate ballet (ages 7-15), alongside street hip hop, jazz, jazz hip hop fusion, & musical theater for kids. 434 Avenue of the Americas, 212-254-8520, joffreyballetschool.com. (Ages 3 years and up)
Lower East Side Dance Academy
This newly opened dance school offers classes in ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, Zumba and more in a 2500 square foot loft with two large studios and plenty of stroller parking in the lobby. Dance birthday parties are available, too. 62 Orchard Street, 2nd Floor, 212-343-1620, lesdanceacademy.com.
Lucy Moses School at Kaufman Center
New York’s largest community arts school offers music, dance and theater classes as well as private lessons for children and teens, including Instrument Discovery, where kids age 4-5 can learn about new instruments and the basic elements of music by trying out the violin, cello, piano, recorder, drums and xylophones. 129 West 67th Street, 212-501-3360, kaufman-center.org/lms. (Ages 2 years and up)
New York Theatre Ballet
The Children’s Division offers pre-ballet through advanced ballet classes in Cecchetti syllabus plus six-week workshops in modern, character and theater dance. Qualified children appear in performance throughout the year with New York Theatre Ballet in special roles for children. Enrollment by invitation or audition for summer and fall programs. 30 East 31st Street, 5th Floor, 212-679-0401, nytb.org. (Ages 3 years and up)
Peridance Capezio Center
The School at Peridance offers dance classes at all levels from toddlers to teens. With almost 30 years of knowledge and experience in
children’s dance education, Peridance presents a diverse array of class disciplines including Ballet, Modern, Jazz, Tap, Musical Theater, Hip-Hop, Salsa, African, Creative Movement and more! 126 East 13th Street, 212-505-0886, peridance.com. (Ages 18 months and up)
The School at Steps
The School at Steps offers a diversified year-round dance program. The Adventures in Dance summer program introduces body coordination and rhythmic awareness, opening a path to each student’s creativity and imagination. Twice each week students take a Pre-Dance and a Pre-Tap class linked with a supervised snack break. These classes are a part of the Little Steps Young Dancer Program. Summer 2011 sessions run through mid-August. 2121 Broadway, 4th Floor, 212-874-3678, stepsnyc.com/school. (Ages 2 to 18 years)
Educational and Cultural Enrichment
American Museum of Natural History
Educational, science-focused classes are offered for all ages. A Brain Camp for 4th and 5th graders will delve into the mysteries of the brain and explore the fascinating field of neuroscience. A sampler camp offers children going into 1st grade a taste of what hands-on learning is all about with three fun days that focus on Astrophysics, Frogs, and Dinosaurs. 79th Street and Central Park West, 212-769-5200, amnh.org. (Ages 3 and up)
FasTracKids
Classes are proven to prepare children for school and life by improving their communication and leadership skills. Through their interactive Smartboard, experiments, role play and art projects, children have so much fun they don’t realize how much they are learning! Topics include Natural Science, Technology and Math. Schedule a trial class and see for yourself. UES and UWS locations, 212-737-3344, manhattanenrichment.com. (Ages 3.5 to 7)
Liberty Science Center
Liberty Science Center is home to hundreds of hands-on exhibits. From the thrill of balancing on an I-beam 18 feet up in the air to experiencing an engaging film in the nation’s largest IMAX Dome Theater, there are hundreds of things to do, see and learn. Families with children ages 2-5 will especially enjoy the We Explore program on weekdays through August. 222 Jersey City Boulevard, Jersey City, 201-253-1310, lsc.org. (Ages 2 and up)
Take Two Film Academy
Take Two Film Academy offers wonderful classes in filmmaking and acting for kids and teens 5-15. Take Two has everything from Green Screen, to Screenwriting, to Production, to Acting Reels, to Documentary and beyond. Classes are a great way for aspiring filmmakers and actors to learn techniques from professional in the field. 795 Columbus Avenue, 917-546-6816, taketwofilmacademy.com. (Ages 5 to 15)
Tribeca Learning Center
The Tribeca Learning Center offers academic and creative programs for children with special developmental needs. Programs include lessons in reading, writing, math, exercise, arts and crafts, music, dance, computers, Mommy/Daddy & Me and much more. 21 Saint Johns Lane, 718-812-1910, tribecalearningcenter.org. (Ages 2-6)
Gymnastics
My Gym
My Gym offers classes that incorporate music, dance and games, and are designed to build self-esteem and confidence through age-appropriate, non-competitive gymnastics and fitness activities. The state-of-the-art facility can also host action-packed birthday parties. 250 East 60th Street, 212-421-9496, my-gym.com. (Ages 6 weeks to 9 years) 22 West 66th Street, 212-724-3400. (Ages 6 weeks to 9 years)
Language
Baby Fingers
Babies, toddlers and children and adults learn American Sign Language through music, guitar lessons, drama or storytelling classes. Music therapy is available. Manhattan and New Jersey Infant Massage classes also available. Various locations in Manhattan, Queens and Brooklyn, 212-874-5978, mybabyfingers.com. (Ages newborn to 6 years)
Bilingual Buds
Bilingual Buds’s After School program focuses on all areas of language acquisition: listening, speaking, reading and writing. During each session, students enter a full immersion environment where inspired, native-speaking teachers bring lessons to life. Science, the arts, culture and technology are integrated into high-energy themes and creative projects. Class placement is determined by both age and proficiency to ensure the best fit. Beginners welcome. 175 Riverside Boulevard (at 68th Street), 212-787-8088, bilingualbudsnyc.com (Ages 5 to 10 years)
Bilingual Birdies
Bilingual Birdies is a foreign language and live music program for children. They offer group classes in Spanish, French, Mandarin and Hebrew. Children learn through live music, movement, puppetry, and games. Each class ends with an awesome bubble dance party! Original music CDs, in-home private classes, birthday parties, and concerts by the Bilingual Birdies Band are available. This fall Bilingual Birdies launches a drop-off afterschool program. Various locations in Manhattan, Brooklyn and Queens, 646-443-1313, bilingualbirdies.com. (Ages 8 months to 5 years)
Carousel of Languages
The Carousel of Languages seeks to enrich the minds and spirits of young children through the beauty and discovery of a foreign language. Hourly classes available in Italian, Mandarin, French and Spanish for children from birth to age 12. 1300 Madison Avenue and 144 West 72nd Street, 212-501-8524, carousellanguages.com. (Ages 6 months to 12 years)
Collina Italiana
Toddlers can pick up basic Italian words and phrases through songs, games, dance, film and arts and crafts. Classes also available for elementary and middle-school kids. Specialty theater, cooking and arts and crafts classes and homework help also available. 212-427-7770, collinaitaliana.com. (Ages 2 years to adult)
French Institute/Alliance Fran%uFFFDaise
Children between the ages of 1 and 5 can enroll in “%uFFFD petits pas,” a fun program that uses games, songs, dances and stories to teach basic French. Summer camp for children ages 6-10 is stratified by fluency level and includes arts and crafts, theater, cooking classes and more. 22 East 60th Street, 646-388-6612, fiaf.org. (Toddlers, Kids, Teens and Adults)
%uFFFDHOLA! A Playgroup in Spanish
For ten years, %uFFFDHola! has followed a natural approach to help develop oral skills. Programs focus on a wide repertory of concepts to build vocabulary and help acquire the correct use phonetics. Classes are taught through use of original and traditional music, movement, games, props and art. %uFFFDHOLA! will be offering a 5 week Summer Program at all locations. Various locations in Manhattan, 917-648-5006, holaplaygroup.com. (Ages 12 months to 8 years)
Iberian American Institute
This new Spanish language school in Manhattan offers Saturday classes, and provides a safe and encouraging atmosphere in which to learn. The consistent, year-round program is taught by experienced, native-speaking teachers. Classes taught at Church of the Epiphany, 1393 York Avenue, 212-688-6619. (Ages 3 years to adult)
Instituto Cervantes
Instituto Cervantes offers year-round Spanish language courses for kids and teenagers, including one-week summer camps in July and August. Through a unique immersion program imparted by native instructors, children learn to understand and express themselves in Spanish, while improving their communication skills. 211 East 49th Street, 212-308-7720, Ext. 3, newyork.cervantes.org. (Ages 4 )
Language Workshop for Children
Original LWFC songs, visual aids and games are used to teach French, Spanish, Italian and Chinese. Classes, Camps, & Preschools. This fall, LWFC begins offering mixed age Languages for Tots%uFFFD classes for kids 6M-3Y. Many educators advocate mixed age classrooms because they mirror the way that children learn at home. Various locations in Manhattan, 212-396-0830, languageworkshopforchildren.com. (Ages 6 months to 9 years)
Music & Performance
ABC Do-Re-ME!
Offers enriching quality, affordable and flexible drop-in music programs for babies, toddlers and kids including the popular Musical Playdate, Musical Stories and Classical Playdate. The guitar playing teachers lead the class in giggles, dance and song by performing favorite nursery rhyme-songs and other great children’s songs. Multiple locations in NYC, 646-434-1419, abcdoreme.com. (Ages newborn to 7 years)
Applause New York City
Programs develop musical and rhythmic skills, incorporating costumes, props and musical instruments. Budding stars ages 5-18 can take classes in acting, dancing and singing and auditioning. 184 East 76th Street, 212-717-0703, applauseny.com. (Ages newborn to 18 years)
Atlantic Acting School
Atlantic for Kids offers classes in acting, playwriting, improvisation and much more. Aspiring actors and playwrights can also sign up for the Saturday Youth Program. Their Summer Young Creators Workshop allows children ages 9-11 to perform a show, create costumes and sets, learn how an actor prepares, and more! 76 Ninth Avenue, 212-691-5919, atlanticactingschool.org. (Ages 4 to 18 years)
Creative Play For Kids
Creative Play For Kids brings music, movement and play all together in their fun and upbeat program! Developmentally appropriate classes are designed for babies and toddlers. Children’s senses are stimulated by the singing, dancing, instrument playing, story telling, bubbles and a play time. Multiple locations in Manhattan, 212-729-1667, creativeplayforkids.com. (Ages 3 months to 3 years).
The Diller-Quaile School of Music
Early childhood instruction teaches children basic music concepts through listening, movement, singing, playing authentic percussion instruments and, eventually, reading and writing music. The Early Childhood Music and Art and Preschool Music and Art courses provide a creative alternative to a nursery school program; classes feature professional pianists and multiple teachers. 24 East 95th Street, 212-369-1484, diller-quaile.org. (Ages 4 months and up)
The Early Ear
Highly-skilled music teachers and pianists work together to introduce music to children. Kids engage in sing-alongs, movement, musical games and stories. Specially-designed kid-sized music instruments await the touch of curious little hands. New at the East 78th Street Studio is “Dance with Me,” a dance and pre-ballet program for ages 2.5 and older. 48 West 68th Street, 110 West 96th Street, 353 East 78th Street, 212-877-7125, theearlyear.com. (Ages 4 months to 5 years)
Eastside Westside Music Together
Nurtures children’s natural enthusiasm for music and movement through singing, dancing, chanting and playing instruments. Teachers trained in developmentally appropriate practice lead you through musical ways to interact with your children both in and out of class using a rich and varied collection of songs and chants. EWMT is rolling out Music Together%uFFFD Big Kids this fall. The Big Kids class blends elements of the Music Together curriculum with new musical activities, skills, and challenges. 102 West 75th Street, 212-496-1242, eswsmusictogether.com. (Ages newborn to 4 years)
Greenwich House Music School
Greenwich House offers private lessons, group classes, and ensembles with regular recitals. Children ages 6-10 can develop their voices through individual and group singing in the Young Voices class, which incorporates sight-singing exercises, theory and songs representing a range of musical styles. 46 Barrow Street, 212-242-4770, greenwichhouse.org. (Ages newborn and up)
Hands On!
Age-appropriate music classes teach basic music concepts, which are introduced while children play miniature instruments. Each class has a pianist. Art classes are also offered. Multiple locations, 212-628-1945, handson4music.com. (Ages 4 months to 5 years)
Jazz at Lincoln Center
WeBop! classes introduce little musicians to the spirit of jazz. Infants and toddlers sing and stomp, while older children tap out their own beats and learn to match sound to symbol. Classes are available for enrollment now for Fall: “the ABC’s of Jazz” and the Jazz for Young People concert series kicks off with “Who is Duke Ellington” with host Wynton Marsalis on November 5. Frederick P. Rose Hall, Broadway at 60th Street, 212-258-9800, jalc.org. (Ages 8 months to 8th grade)
Little Maestros
Each class features four live musicians who sing and play guitar, piano, and drums. Little Maestros takes children on a fantastic musical journey each week. You and your child will love our musical story times, songs of all kinds, imaginative play, language development activities, puppet shows, and “bubble music.” Come and join the fun! Various locations, 212-772-8435, littlemaestros.com. (Ages newborn to 5 years)
Moey’s Music Party
Birthdays, Christmas and Hanukkah come once a year, but every day’s a party in this fun, interactive music class with Off-Broadway songwriter, Moey! Sessions include songs, dances, props, instruments, puppets and letters based on a weekly party theme. The Fall Semester will have weekly themes including train party, pirate party, jungle safari party, and a sun, moon, stars solar system party. New York Junior League, 130 East 80th Street, moeysmusicparty.com. (Ages newborn to 4 years)
Music for Aardvarks
Interactive classes include simple movement, dancing, singing, storytelling and instruments, often with a city-focused theme. Classes are held all over NYC and the Tri-state area. 199 Lafayette Street, 718-858-1741, musicforaardvarks.com. (Ages 6 months to 5 years)
New York Jazz Academy
New York Jazz Academy is NYC’s fastest-growing music school. Students are introduced to musical fundamentals, including instrumental technique, note-reading and music theory, while also developing their improvisation skills. Check the NYJA website for fall 2011 scheduling for Jelly Jamz baby/toddler music classes. 263 West 86th Street, 718-426-0633, nyjazzacademy.com. (Ages newborn and up)
School For Strings
Early childhood music classes are offered for kids ages 16 months to 4 years. The Instrumental Program gives kids of all ages expert instruction in violin, cello and piano. 419 West 54th Street, 212-315-0915, schoolforstrings.org. (Ages 16 months to adult)
StageCoach Theatre Arts
Through classes in dance, music and drama, kids gain an appreciation for the arts and build self-confidence. Classes are broken down by age and skill level, and most feature a presentation at the end of the season for family and friends. Held at PS6, 45 East 81st St, 347-678-8989, stagecoachschools.com/uppereastside. (Ages 4 to 16 years)
TADA!
Musical Theater summer camps are in full swing all summer at TADA!, where kids learn to sing, dance, and act. Summer is a time for kids to learn and have fun, so week-long summer camps have themes like “Grab Some Magic,” “Pirate Tales and Treasures,” and “GLEEk Out!” At the end of each week, campers perform their original TADA! musical for friends and family. Come join the TADA! family this summer! 15 West 28th Street, 3rd Floor, 212-252-1619, tadatheater.com. (Ages 2-14)
Three Little Birds Music
Whether by plucking guitar strings or tapping out staccato beats, parents and children learn together in TLB’s rich sensory environment. Age-specific classes teach elementary music theory and improve cognitive skills while exposing kids to every instrument in the orchestra. TLB’s spring/summer curriculum, “Joey Gets a Job,” has children exploring professions through music. Musical selections include classical hits by great composers, children’s songs everyone knows, and contemporary popular music. 266 East 78th Street, 212-744-0404, tlbmusic.com. (Ages 4.5 months to 5 years)
Sports & Adventure
Yorkville Sports
The Yorkville Youth Athletic Association is a not-for-profit organization serving children in Manhattan and the surrounding boroughs. They offer baseball, basketball, flag football, tackle football, soccer, lacrosse, roller hockey, tennis and drama. Don’t miss out on the Competition, Camaraderie, Community. 212-360-0022, yyaa.org. (Pre-K to 12th Grade)
Big City Volleyball
This co-ed adult volleyball league with full-size courts scattered throughout the city offers instruction for kids, too. Classes focus on the fundamentals of volleyball, proper mechanics, and skill development. Multiple locations in Manhattan, 212-288-4240, bigcityvolleyball.com. (Ages 10 to 16 years)
Brooklyn Boulders
Active kids will love the classes at Brooklyn Boulders, the city’s largest rock climbing gym. Children can join Kids League, where they’ll learn climbing basics and participate in fun climbing games and activities. Climbers 10 and above can join BKB Academy, where they can have fun with other tweens. Also look for BKB Summer Adventures; week-long camps featuring climbing, arts and crafts, yoga, games, and more. 575 Degraw Street, Brooklyn, 347-834-9066, brooklynboulders.com. (Ages 3 to 10)
Dasha Wellness
Dasha Wellness introduces its new children’s wellness program, Generation D Generation D focuses on three wellness platforms: Sports & Games, Fitness and Nutrition. Your child’s plan can include anything from baseball or dance to body weight training and nutritional coaching. Recreational therapists and certified trainers teach your child to set goals, learn healthy habits, and have a blast doing it. 115 East 57th Street, Suite 520, 212.755.5500, dashawellness.com. (Ages 5 and up)
Fastbreak Kids
Offers basketball and football (both flag and tackle) weekend sports leagues for kids. Provides coaching in small groups (or even one-on-one instruction.) Various locations in Manhattan, 212-724-FAST, fastbreakkids.com. (Ages 6 to 14 years)
Kids In Sports
This athletic program offers a variety of sports including baseball, basketball, floor hockey, flag football and soccer, in a fun and encouraging setting. This fall, Kids In Sports is expanding programs with JUST CLASSES where kids can focus on their favorite sport! Various locations in Manhattan, 212-744-4900, kisnyc.com. (Ages 1 to 12 years)
Lil Sluggers
Lil’ Sluggers offers an introduction to baseball, tailored specifically for each age group. Students learn to throw, catch, hit and run bases in a friendly environment. Advanced sluggers can sign up for weekly league classes. Various locations, 631-367-9378. (Ages 2 to 7 years)
Simply Sports
This athletic program for kids emphasizes not just skills and technique, but a love of the game. Classes available in soccer, basketball, flag football, baseball, hockey, and dodgeball. Various locations in Manhattan, 877-213-BALL, simplysports.net. (Ages 3 to 13 years)
Sportime at Randall’s Island
SPORTIME Tennis & Sports Camp offers young athletes high quality, professional tennis instruction from experienced pros, combined with friendly competition in a wide variety of team sports activities. Campers participate in two hours of daily tennis instruction–drills, strategy, matchplay and speed & agility training. In addition, Tennis & Sports campers learn to play basketball, soccer, kickball, flag football, softball and other team sports on beautiful outdoor fields and facilities. One Randall’s Island, 212-427-6150, sportimeny.com.
Sutton East Tennis
The youth program at Sutton East trains students in an age-appropriate environment. In Pee Wee Tennis, the courts, rackets and foam balls are sized down to allow for comfortable skill development. Pre-Junior classes function on a half-court, while Junior level students use a full-court to practice advanced strokes, double strategies, and serving techniques. The Pee-Wee Multi-Sports Academy introduces children to tennis, soccer, basketball and t-ball. 488 East 60th Street, 212-751-3452, suttoneasttennis.com. (Ages 3 to 18 years)
Wollman Skating Rink
Learn to skate outdoors at Central Park’s iconic Wollman Rink. The rink offers classes as well as private lessons in skating and figure skating. Central Park at 59th Street and Sixth Avenue, 212-439-6900, wollmanrink.com. (Ages 3 and up)
Martial Arts
East Side Tae Kwon Do
East Side Tae Kwon Do’s yoga classes are developmentally appropriate and taught by experienced instructors. Kids experience all the benefits of yoga, plus they have a great deal of fun! Classes develop stamina, core muscle strength and flexibility as well as discipline, perseverance and mental acuity. 325 East 65 Street, 212-755-5982, eastsidetaekwondo.com. (Ages 18 months to 12 years)
Tiger Schulmann’s Mixed Martial Arts
Tiger Schulmann’s Cubs program (ages 3-5) is the perfect choice for preschoolers to learn developmental skills in a fun, safe environment. Children’s (ages 5-7) and Kid’s programs (ages 8 and up) teach discipline and self-defense while developing confidence, focus and determination. 39 West 19th Street, 212-727-0773 or 1-800-52-TIGER, TSK.com. (Ages 3 years and up)
West Side Taekwondo
Classes for children ages 3-5 use physical activity to promote respect and confidence. Starting at age 6, children can enroll in the Children’s Program, which emphasizes discipline. 700 Columbus Avenue, 212-663-3998, westsidetkd.com. (Ages 3 years and up)
Soccer
Carlos Oliviera Soccer Academy
Soccer classes to develop individual skills as well as the fundamentals of team playing are available for kids. More than 30 locations throughout Manhattan, 718-743-9402, cosacademy.com. (Ages 2 to 14 years)
Kick & Play
A parent-child pre-soccer & movement program for toddlers. Brought to you by Super Soccer Stars, experienced instructors along with our puppet friends, Mimi & Pepe, take you and your little one through a world of exciting physical activity. Weekly classes develop pre-soccer skills that will have your toddler learning to balance, run, kick & play—all while having a blast! Locations in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Hoboken, 212-877-5425, kickandplay.com (12 to 24 months).
Soccer by Coach Fher
Soccer by Coach Fher offers his popular classes year-round. The program introduces children to basic soccer skills through a series of fun games and activities. Summer camp runs through August and the fall season runs September 12 to November 19. Locations vary, 917-650-3008, coachfher.com. (Ages 3 to 8)
SocRoc
Age appropriate soccer classes taught by professional coaches, emphasis on fun, learning basic soccer skills, balance, strength, coordination, endurance, teamwork, and SCORING GOALS! 235 East 49th Street, 917-703-0409, jcsocroc.com. (Ages 2 to 14)
Super Soccer Stars
Summer programs include: Flexible Drop-in Classes, Day Camps, Mini Camps, Advanced Clinics, and more. Positive reinforcement, a non-competitive environment, and a low child-to-coach ratio ensure that each child will improve his or her soccer skills—while having endless fun! More than 150 locations throughout the Tri-State area, 212-877-7171, supersoccerstars.com. (Ages 2 and up)
Swimming
New York Sports Club
Lessons available for kids of various ages and skill levels. Class levels range from Water Tot to Swim Team Conditioning. Private lessons also offered. 1637 Third Avenue, 212-987-7200, mysportsclubs.com. (Ages 6 months to 14 years)
Physique Swim School
Offers a progressive program designed for all levels of swimmers. Kids ages 8 and older can enroll in swim team prep, while kids under 3 years and their parents will like the sing-along program, “Me and My Shadow.” All swimmers will learn to be safe, confident and efficient. Various locations around Manhattan, 212-725-0939, physiqueswimming.com. (Ages 4 months to 15 years)
Swim Jim
Toddler classes teach children ages 6 months to 3 years how to be comfortable in the water. Classes for older kids focus on stroke technique. Individual and group classes offered. Lessons taught year-round. Pool locations throughout the city, 212-749-7335, swimjim.com. (Ages 6 months and up)
Tutoring
Bright Kids NYC
Bright Kids NYC is the premiere tutoring and test preparation company for grades Pre-K to 8th in NYC. A Stanford Binet summer value course is now available to prepare for the fall Hunter entry exam and the wildly popular OLSAT bootcamp is back, running from September to January. All courses are one-on-one with a certified teacher. 225 Broadway, Suite 3104, 917-539-4575, brightkidsnyc.com. (Ages Pre-Kindergarten to 8th grade)
EBL Coaching
EBL Coaching provides one-on-one tutoring to students in grades pre K-12 using research-based, multi-sensory strategies. They specialize in reading, writing, math, organization, and study skills development, and also offer specialized programs for students with learning disabilities and ADHD. 17 East 89th Street, Suite 1D, 212-249-0147, eblcoaching.com. (Ages Pre-K to 12th grade)
Kumon Center
Kumon is an after-school enrichment program that unlocks the potential of children so they can achieve more on their own. The Kumon method uses an individualized approach that helps children develop a solid command of math and reading skills. Through daily practice and mastery of materials, students increase confidence, improve concentration and develop better study skills. Various locations, 1-800-ABC-MATH, kumon.com. (Ages Pre-K to 12th grade)
Launch Math
Launch Math Achievement Centers provide Pre-K through 8th grade kids with inspiring math instruction throughout the year and exciting camps during summer months. Launch engages kids with fun, real world activities that illustrate math’s connection to subjects they love. Contact Launch today about clubs, workshops and flagship Launch Learning program. Launch—Real World Math—Out of this World Fun! 173 West 81st Street, Lower Level (between 81st and Amsterdam), 949-528-6240, launchmath.com. (Ages Pre-K to 8th grade)
Mathnasium
Through tutoring and enrichment programs, students build a solid math foundation, receive both homework guidance and a customized program that fills in skill gaps and builds fluency with numbers. Get your child back into a math state-of-mind at end of summer “Re-Boot” Camps which include fun math games and activities! 1597 York Avenue, 212-828-6284, mathnasium.com/manhattan. (Ages Pre-K to 12th grade)
The Princeton Review
The Princeton Review helps students by focusing on preparation and practice to improve performance in the classroom and on standardized tests. Through its website it also helps parents, teachers, students and schools navigate the complexities of school admissions. 594 Broadway, Suite 502, 646-613-9500, princetonreview.com. (All Ages)
Yoga
Karma Kids Yoga
New York’s only yoga studio just for kids, Karma Kids Yoga offers yoga classes for infants 6 weeks old through teens, Family Yoga, CircusYoga, free Story Time Yoga, and Prenatal Yoga for mommies-to-be. Yoga Birthday Parties, too! 104 West 14th Street, 646-638-1444, karmakidsyoga.com. (Ages 2 months and up)
The Prenatal Yoga Center
In addition to Mommy and Me Yoga, Infant Massage, Tummy Time, Music for Babies, and Baby Fingers, the center offers workshops and lectures that address issues related to pregnancy, childbirth education, breastfeeding, early childhood parenting, and family dynamics. 251 West 72nd Street, 2F, 212-362-2985, prenatalyogacenter.com. (Ages newborn to 18 months)
Yoga Stars
From the creators of Super Soccer Stars, class structure engages children through songs, games, and poses that get kids moving and focusing! Classes maintain a low child-to-instructor ratio opening up a universe of individualized learning and growth. 131 West 86th Street, 212.787.9642, yogastars.com. (Ages 2-10 years)
Yogi Beans
Yogi Beans is an educational, energetic, and transformative yoga-for-kids program. The Yogi Beans’ curriculum is tailored to introduce kids to the foundations of yoga, while giving them the freedom to let their individual personalities flourish and develop organically. Various locations in Manhattan and Brooklyn, yogibeans.com. (Ages prenatal to 10 years)
