Schools provide enough academic value to children, but it doesn't hurt to supplement what they learn with afterschool programs. Afterschool programs are convenient during the school year, but some are closed during school breaks.
This is why it's good to consider enrolling your child in programs available all year round. This way, your child doesn't have to wait until summer is over to continue pursuing their interests. They'll also have something to keep them busy on holiday.
Here are some year-round programs for kids in NYC.
source
The PLAYDAY program has an art class that is available all year round. You can schedule a class from 9 am to 6 pm from Monday to Friday. The class is designed to ensure children have fun and enhance their artistic skills. All their instructors are trained artists who are very passionate about art. At the end of every class, children leave feeling empowered, awesome, and proud of themselves.
Grown Up and Me (GUM) programming brings out creativity from fresh, young minds and challenges them to express themselves on paper. Kids between ages one and four also have a dedicated space where they can draw, sing, dance, etc., and the instructors guide them throughout the classes.
source
If your little champ is an engineer or scientist in the making, they'll enjoy the STEM Kids NYC program. This nonprofit comprises a team of educators, computer engineers, system programmers, etc. They aim to empower kids individually, in schools, and in the community.
STEM Kids NYC offers comprehensive programs in various subjects, including robotics, engineering, science, creative technologies, and computer science.
They have weekend, summer, afterschool, and even virtual programs to keep children occupied.
If your child is looking forward to camping, enroll them at Camp Stella Maris. The staff is well trained, and all kids, including beginner campers, are welcome to tag along. It's also an excellent break for children too invested in their electronic gadgets because phones aren't allowed in the camps.
With Camp Stella Maris, campers can go camping every season. They also have short camping programs like overnight or day camping.
Whenever you're on a budget and looking for a way to cheer up your toddler, the NYC parks are your best friend. They have lots of free activities and don't require prior booking.
Their activities change depending on the seasons, but they always have something going on all year round. Some of their fun activities include camping, teenage STEM activities, fitness programs, and sports.
Since everything is on a first-come, first-served basis, it's essential to get there earlier in the day to secure a spot.
Brooklyn Acting Lab (BAL) is a good outlet for children who love acting. Children are taught how to work, dance, and do it all confidently. The program has three options accessing the classes; they can do it indoors, outdoors, or online. Most parents have mentioned that the outdoor option has caused a significant difference in their children's attitudes.
Besides the afterschool classes, BAL has activities for children during school breaks and holidays. Some school break programs include Play in a Day, where the theme changes daily to keep things interesting.
The Jewish community partly sponsors the 92Y Program, but they welcome children of all religions and backgrounds to their events. Some of the activities your child can enjoy in the 92Y Program include sports, dancing, music (they have a music school and theater), dance, and writing, just to mention a few.
Whether your child is already a math lover or just trying to explore their options, MoMath is the place to be. The program is open seven days a week, all year long so that you can sign them up any time. They also hold events from 9 am to 5 pm during summer breaks.
The program gives its learners a different perspective on math. Instead of teaching students how to solve math problems, they show them where it's present in real life.
One thing to note is that even though the Covid-19 spread has reduced, the center still requires all children to wear a mask. They also require a certificate of two full vaccinations for the safety of the children.
This program is dedicated to helping young athletes practice and grow their talents. They're interested in kids of all ages, even the ones who are just learning to take their first steps.
Funfit Program understands the need for consistency as an athlete, so they have programs for all occasions. During school breaks, their members enjoy the half-day and full-day sessions.
Some of the games they focus on include soccer, hockey, kickball, gymnastics, basketball, and volleyball.
If you've been researching afterschool programs, you've probably come across NY Kids Club. It's the holy grail of toddler activities in NYC. They have a vast selection that makes it convenient and opens all year round..
The program is available to children between eight weeks and 12 years. They offer academic programs, hold celebrations and events, and other innovative programs. Some fun things your child can do include acting, dancing, and science experiments.
Kids in the Game are among the new kids in the block, but they're catching up quickly. They have programs all year round, from afterschool programs to summer programs. Their primary focus is athletics and helping children connect with their peers when playing. The founders believe that sports can help boost social and emotional development. They also work to improve a child's confidence and encourage them to try out new things.
Enroll your child in a fun program in NYC
Learning doesn't have to stop at 3 pm; you can enroll your child in an afterschool program. When choosing a program for them, consider programs that stay open during school breaks and holidays. This ensures that your child doesn't have to take a break from learning, which can delay their progress.
We hope our list gave you some great ideas on where to enroll your child for fun activities in NYC.