Winter: no longer about hibernating when you’ve got kiddos around. Chances are, the cold weather is keeping you indoors more than usual, and making you a little stir-crazy in the process.
Fear not—we’ve got you covered. There are thousands of activities right outside your door. Here are ten of our current faves.
1. Apple Seeds
If you’re looking for a place with something for everyone, check out Apple Seeds. A unique indoor playground for children aged 0-5, this provider has over 100 classes per week, from music, to art, cooking, science, construction, ballet, tap, movement, gym, soccer, and language. If that’s not enough for you, there’s also a kids’ hair salon, a toy and bookstore, and a healthy snack bar. Apple Seeds is in 3 locations—Chelsea/Flatiron, the Upper West Side, and Stuyvesant Town. Come on by!
What better way to while away a winter afternoon than with some arts and crafts? The Craft Studio has been a staple in the lives of Upper East Side kids since 1994. Stop by this beautifully designed space for a walk-in hour, book a toddler art session, attend a workshop or class—there’s tons to do here that will be sure to leave your little one’s hands dirty and hearts happy.
Tired of takeout? Teach your kiddo how to make dinner and never worry about it again! Okay, so Freshmade NYC can’t promise quite that much, but this cooking and craft studio is designed to teach your little ones all about healthy, mindful eating through fun and dynamic cooking classes and competitions. Located in the heart of NoHo.
4. FunikiJam
Billed as “music exploration for the next generation,” this unique program is part class, part live show—with kids in the starring roles! At each session, FunikiJam-certified teaching artists (Agents of JAM) take the stage and invite the group to Sing-A-Long, Dance-A-Long, and Play-A-Long with globe-spanning musical adventures. This activity also spans several locations across the boroughs, so take your little music-lover (or future music-lover) and find a jam session nearest you.
A New York staple, JCC Manhattan creates opportunities for families to connect, grow, and learn through a variety of programs including the arts, sports, aquatics, music, dance, and Jewish celebration. You’re sure to find something for everyone here.
6. MusiBambino
Teach them how to play a musical instrument (just make sure to hide it from them before bedtime or you may never sleep again.) MusiBambino believes that starting musical education as early as possible not only helps nurture key social, cognitive and motor skills, but also a love of art from an early age. This Upper East Side provider has age-appropriate group music classes for kids aged 4 months to 5 years with instruments like the violin, cello, flute, accordion—and more!
This Upper East Side play space is a kid’s dream. From a wall of light switches, to a padded area for toddlers learning to walk, to a room devoted entirely to dress up and imaginative play to choose from, getting bored is not an option. You and your child can attend their open play, or choose a more structured activity, like the Baby Music & Movement Class. And if you’re looking to throw an epic birthday party (even if it’s just for yourself), you can book the party room!
Swimming in the winter? Why not, so long as it’s in a heated, indoor pool? Physique Swimming is a comprehensive aquatics program with classes ranging from babies to adults, catering to all levels and abilities. Using their unique and dynamic teaching methods, Physique Swimming’s experienced staff will take your child from beginner to master-swimmer. There are several locations throughout New York and New Jersey, so make sure to use our map to find the one nearest you.
9. TLB Music
What better way to chase the winter blues away than with more music? TLB Music is an early childhood education center and indoor playspace with group music classes for children ages 4 months to 6 years. TLB will introduce your child to all genres of music as well as a variety of classical and folk instruments. There are also art classes, Spanish music classes, French music classes, Gifted & Talented prep, an eco-friendly playroom for open play, drop-off play and private play, as well as special events for kids and parents.
10. 14th Street Y
The 14th Street Y’s Parenting, Family, and Early Childhood Center provides a warm, welcoming and vibrant community for families in downtown Manhattan. There are Expectant Parent classes, New Parents Stroll-In, Mommy and Baby fitness, plus the popular toddler classes “Boogie with Brett”, “Messy Play”, “Runners and Jumpers”, and “Learning Through Literacy.” Definitely a “something for everyone” kind of place!
If you’re not yet on KidPass, use code TOP10NYC to sign up, and get your first month for only $18! Redeem at kidpass.com.