The best after-school programs and activities for kids in and near Queens
The entries are in alphabetical order
It’s happening; we’re just over a month away from kids returning to school. While summer is always a welcome break, the start of a new school year feels more structured and organized. And what better way to get it done than to check out what programs and activities are available for your kids? From arts and sports to enrichment classes, there’s something for every kid, and we’re excited to share the best after-school programs for kids in and around Queens for you and your family this school year!
The Ailey School
405 W. 55th St.
212-405-9000
alvinailey.org/school/first-steps-and-bounding-boys
alvinailey.org/school/programs/junior-division
The Ailey School’s Junior Division offers a highly structured curriculum for conservatory training. Students in the Pre-Professional program (ages 7 to 17) participate in after-school and weekend classes during the school year. All levels include training in ballet and at least one other technique. As students progress, more techniques are added to their training, such as jazz, Horton, modern, pointe, tap, and West African. In First Steps and Bounding Boys (ages 3 to 6), children develop an understanding of dance, rhythm, and music through a weekly series of fun exercises.
All star studios
108-21 72nd Ave. 4th floor, Forest Hills
718-268-2280, [email protected]All Star Studios programs are designed to encourage and educate students on how to increase flexibility, improve coordination, focus on muscle strengthening, build balance, and have fun. All instructors have teaching and performing experience to give students the skills they need to achieve their goals, build self-confidence, and encourage healthy, active lifestyles. Their competition team does annual fundraising shows to support families of children with autism. The dancers learn technique and choreography throughout the year and perform in the annual spring show. The first class is free and tuition is monthly, so there is no commitment to a semester contract. The studio is located on three floors with parent viewing windows in the heart of Forest Hills.
Aviator sports
3159 Flatbush Ave., Brooklyn
aviatorsports.com/sports
Aviator Sports is a child’s gateway to fun, fitness and growth. Their diverse youth sports programs—Gymnastics, Parkour/Ninja Warrior, Skating, Ice Hockey, Basketball and FC Copa Soccer—focus on each child’s interests and talents. Each season is a new adventure designed to promote skill development, teamwork and physical fitness in a way that is both fun and educational. Aviator’s professional coaches provide personalized attention, foster a passion for sports and promote an active lifestyle. Aviator Sports isn’t just about athletic skills; they help kids build confidence and nurture positive traits. From perfecting a gymnastics routine to mastering ice skating to honing soccer skills, Aviator Sports provides a dynamic, supportive environment that empowers young athletes to reach their potential.
NY Kids Club
nykidsclub.com
NY Kids Club’s enrichment classes offer children access to a wide range of experiences designed to ignite lifelong passions. From cooking to musical theater, these classes provide a rich, hands-on curriculum that encourages creativity, critical thinking, and a love of learning. Young chefs can explore the culinary arts in a fun and engaging environment, learning to create delicious international dishes while understanding the importance of nutrition. Emerging artists can take the spotlight in musical theater class, where they develop confidence, teamwork, and artistic expression through acting, singing, and dancing. These enrichment programs, among the broad fall lineup of classes, are designed to spark curiosity and build foundational skills that children will carry with them throughout their lives. At NY Kids Club, every child has the opportunity to discover new interests, develop their talents, and ignite lifelong passions!
The Q StudioLab
41-20 Queens Boulevard Sunnyside
(718) 786-9100, [email protected]theqstudiolab.com
The Open Studio After School Program offers children in Kindergarten through Grade 6 the opportunity to explore and deepen their experiences and relationships through creative tools, techniques, ideas, and mentorship from skilled teachers and staff. Each day, children participate in tutoring and two studios of their choice. There are three unique studios to choose from each day of the week. Examples of studios include Cooking, Baking, Theater, Film & Foley, Painting, Park Time, Crafts, Makers & Science Lab, Q Cafe, and more! The Q also offers private music lessons. The Q StudioLab has created a space that gives children the freedom to explore, grow their confidence, and find their unique voice, allowing them to shine in their own special way!
Rose Academy for Ballet
70-11 Austin Street, 2nd Floor, Forest Hills
718-520-0207, [email protected]roseacademyofballet.com
Rose Academy of Ballet introduces children to the excitement of learning to dance! Pre-ballet and tippy toe classes are designed for children ages 2-5 who are eager to learn about dance in a positive environment. There are many opportunities for students ages 6-18 to expand their skills and artistry. Students enjoy energetic and creative camps, workshops, and classes year-round. Dedicated, professional staff allows students of all ages and abilities to learn about dance and performing! The studio offers a variety of classes to develop versatile dancers; try ballet, jazz, contemporary, tap, hip hop, musical theater, or classical modern dance! The studio also has many opportunities to celebrate dance on stage! Dancers ages 6-18 can perform in the studio’s student production of the holiday favorite, “The Nutcracker” in December.
New York Family