Spots go quickly at these Seattle mid-winter break camps
Mid-winter break is just around the corner. And if a fun-in-the-sun vacation isn’t in your family’s plans for mid-winter break, we’re here to help. Keep the cabin fever at bay by signing the kids up for an engaging winter break camp in Seattle or on the Eastside. We’ve got camps for all kinds of kids on our list. And guess what? They all have spots open. From sports and engineering to art and cooking, you’ll find an entertaining camp on our list of Seattle camp faves. You work. They play. What more could you ask for if you’re staying close to home?
Who wouldn’t want to play dodgeball, soccer, and capture the flag over mid-winter break? We guarantee the kids will have more fun at Arena Sports than they will if they're stuck at home. Many Arena Sports locations will be running mid-winter break camps, and they fill up fast, so be sure to plan ahead, parents. We love that campers can come for full- or half-days and for a single session or stay the whole week. Flexibility is key these days, isn't it? Camps run from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. for full day and in the afternoon from 1 p.m.-4 p.m. for half day. Dates vary based on local school districts' mid-winter break schedules.
Good to Know: If you're signing up your campers (ages 6 and up) for camp at the Mill Creek or Issaquah locations, they can also stay entertained with laser tag, mini golf, and other attractions that are part of the entertainment complex.
Locations in Magnuson, SODO, Issaquah, Remond & Mill Creek
Can you dig it? The Tilth Alliance will have kids Gardening for Pizza over mid-winter break. Hosted at the Rainier Beach Urban Farm and Wetlands, this hands-on camp is a full culinary experience—from garden to table. Kids ages 5 and up will spend the week learning what it takes to make pizza—wait for it—from scratch. Starting in the garden and working all the way through kneading the dough and putting on the toppings, kids will develop the skills and knowledge to make and bake their own at home. The fact it ends with a celebratory pizza party on the last day is a total win.
Kick cabin fever to the curb when you sign up the kids (ages 6-9) for this combo outdoor-indoor parkour camp with Kong Academy. They'll get a chance to learn new skills and practice what they already know as they make their way over, around, and sometimes under obstacles at this week-long, half-day camp. It all starts with an engaging warm-up and games before the guided lesson begins. Then it's off to try what you've learned and play a bit too before heading home. And while the parkour skills are what your kids will rave about, they'll also be gaining social skills, and that's hard to beat.
Dates: Feb. 20-24, 2023 Time: 9 a.m.-noon
Phinney Neighborhood Association 6532 Phinney Ave. N. Seattle Online:kongacademy.org
Turns out, kids don't need to run away to join the circus over mid-winter break. They can attend camp at SANCA instead. And since no previous classes are necessary to attend camp, it's a great place to start, if you have a kiddo who is interested in learning circus arts. There are two camps to choose from this session. Younger wannabe performers (ages 6-8) can check out Circus Odyssey where they will develop body awareness through tumbling, balancing, ring passing, and partner acrobatics. Older kiddos (ages 9-12) will become Ringmasters, linking individual skills into sequences and practicing choreography.
If you live in West Seattle, you know what a gift this playspace is for local families. And the folks at Outer Space Seattle will be offering drop-off camp for kids over mid-winter break too. They'll have a chance to play on the enormous structure, do some arts and crafts, and play with friends too. The best part? It's day-by-day so you can sign up for one day or all five, depending on your February break plans. Add in a discount for sibs and you've got your plans made.
Your kids love to play with toys, but at this camp, they'll learn how to build them all by themselves. Budding builders and engineers will enjoy safely wielding woodworking tools (think: hammers, saws, sanders, and more) as they create. Sign up for a morning or afternoon session. Kids will need to bring a snack and wear closed-toes shoes each day. The best part? The project they take home at the end.
Extra! Extra! Read all about it at this year's Stone Soup Theater mid-winter break camp. Newsies is the musical and kids ages 8 and up are invited to join the cast performing the 1982 Disney musical. Not only will kids have the chance to strut their stuff on stage, but they'll also learn about the real-life newsboy strike in NYC in 1899. This show stopper is as empowering as it is fun for kids who love the stage.
Good to Know: After-camp care is available until 5:30 p.m. for an additional $115.
Dates: Feb. 20-24, 2023 Times: 9 .a.m-3 p.m.
Wallingford Presbyterian Church 1414 N. 42nd St. Seattle Online:stonesouptheatre.org
Great things are happening at this Greenwood sewing studio over mid-winter break, where families will have two camps to choose from. If a longer camp is what you're after, try the Animal Onesie Pajama camp (Feb. 22-24). Unicorn horns, kitty ears, and fuzzy tummies are all in the mix. Or stick to a quick two-day P.J. Party camp (Feb. 20-21) where kids will learn sewing basics, make PJ pants and a gum drop floor pillow. Whatever your kiddo's whimsy, they'll get a chance to explore it and make it here. No previous experience is required to sign up. Remember to bring a snack and a mask and dress for outdoor play—it's all part of the day. Psst... if you want to make a full week of it, sign them up for both camps. It's almost too easy.
Good to Know: Both camps are for beginners, ages 7 and up.
LEGO fans love camps at Play-Well TEKnologies. This winter, they'll be offering a Winter Wonderland Engineering camp in Shoreline for kids ages 6-11. More than a chance to just play with LEGOs, kids will engineer snowmobiles, sleds, and other wintry gear. Plus, we hear they might even get to experience the Polar Express. You won't need your mitten for this STEM-themed camp, but your mini figs sure will.
Dates: Feb. 21-24, 2023 Times: 9 a.m.-noon
Spartan Recreation Center 202 N.E. 185th St. Shoreline, WA Online:play-well.org
Bring your budding artists for a week of outdoor art at Neo Art School. Register for just a day or sign your little maker up for the whole week at this Ballard-area day camp. While they're staying cozy under the heated tents, kids will upcycle items and use paint and other mediums to create their masterpieces, and the promise of new projects each camp keeps kids engaged. When they need a break, it's off to the meridian playground to burn off some energy. If you need extended care (from 8 a.m.-6 p.m.), they've got that too.
If you're on the Eastside, and your kids love art, sign them up for one of two mid-winter break camps this year. If you're in the Lake Washington School District, you'll want to take advantage of this quick two-day camp that lines up with the district's break. And if you're in the Bellevue School District, sign your kids up for the four-day camp happening the following week. No matter which camp you choose, little artists will work alongside owner Noga Unger creating art and learning about famous world artists. Bring a lunch, and get ready to create something new (and learn a little bit too).
Good to Know: There's also a one-day camp offered on President's Day (Feb. 20) if you want to pad your week in either direction.
Learn from our past mistakes: summer seems far away, but it’s coming up fast. Which means it’s time to start thinking about and looking at camps, if that’s part of your plan for keeping the kids busy. Not only do camps fill up, but booking early can also get you some discounts on price. The good news is, no matter what your kid is into, there’s a camp for it in NYC. Soccer and ice skating, arts and movie making, rock exploration and rock band performances—whether your child has a creative soul or is a bundle of energy, you’re sure to find something to love in this list. We only wish we could sign up for all of them!
Not surprisingly, some of the camps to fill up first are the free or more affordable ones. Information for Summer 2022 is still forthcoming in most cases, but you can see an overview in our story on free and affordable camps here. (We'll be updating it as information becomes available.)
NYC also has yearly free STEM camp programs. Registration isn't open yet at the time of this writing, but keep an eye on this page for information.
New Country Day Camp
General Day Camp
YMCA
The YMCA is the quintessential NYC summer camp. If you're looking for a general camp that has a good mix of physical activity and personal expression, you'll probably find it at the Y. And with many locations around the city, you can find a spot that's convenient for you. Each location has different types of camps on offer, which generally have the same types of activities as a regular camp but with a heightened focus on a specific sport or activity, like swimming, sports, dance, robotics, and more.
Ages: Varies by location Locations: Many locations around NYC Camp dates: Jul 5-Aug 26 Fees (starting at): Varies by location Online:ymcanyc.org
Oasis Summer Day Camp
Oasis Day Camp
A classic summer day camp in the city, Oasis prides itself on its affordability. Oasis operates camps in Central Park, East Village, Bayside, Queens, Long Island and Westchester. Kids ages three to 15 enjoy sports, games, crafts, drama, and more for the bulk of the day outside (although there are indoor facilities as well).
Ages: 3-15 Locations: Central Park, East Village, Bayside, Long Island University, Dobbs Ferry Camp dates: 6/27-8/19 Fees (starting at): Varies by location. Central Park: $1470 (entering nursery - K); $1420 (entering grades 1-6) Online:oasischildren.com
Gantry Kids & Teens
Gantry Kids & Teens
Gantry Kids is a camp that focuses on physical activity and fun, hoping to heal minds through active bodies. Campers will get to ride scooters and bikes in many locations, play outdoors, do some gardening, go on field trips to more outdoorsy places like Governors Island, and generally spend fun time away from their screens.
Ages: 6-11 Locations: 10-19 46th Rd. (Long Island City) Camp dates: Jun 28-Sep 2 Fees (starting at): $580 per week Online:gantrykids.com
Steve and Kate's Camp
Steve & Kate's Camp
The camp experience at Steve and Kate's is entirely up to each individual child. Campers get to choose what they want to do from a huge range of activities including sewing, stop-motion animation, theater, crafts, and more. Mistakes are celebrated and trying new things is encouraged! You can buy day passes or a full month pass for 30+ days, and if you end up not using all the days you paid for you'll be automatically refunded, no strings attached.
Ages: 4-12 Locations: East Village, Cobble Hill, Chelsea, Upper East Side Camp dates: Jun 20-Sep 2 Fees (starting at): $119 per day or $3,570 for a full summer Online:steveandkatescamp.com
Camp Settoga
A day camp affiliated with the Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan, Camp Settoga operates on a lush 21-acre facility in Pamona, NY. (Kids are picked up by air-conditioned bus from areas throughout Manhattan, and it's about a 30-minute ride from the GW bridge.) It's a day camp with an overnight camp feel, with all the bells and whistles like pools, a rope course, elective activities, and more. New for the 2022 season are improvements like two new basketball courts, new tennis courts, a 12-hole mini-golf course and new amphitheater.
Ages: 4-12 Locations: Pomona, NY, with pickup from Chelsea, Upper West Side, Upper East Side, Harlem and elsewhere Camp dates: June 28-Aug. 18, with sessions 4-8 weeks Fees (starting at): $5,565 for four weeks and up Online:campsettoga.org
This Staten Island-based camp is a place where every child is nurtured and good friends are made. Campers are led by trained supervisors and staff through activities designed to build confidence and self-esteem. The campus is huge, and camp events include hikes, field trips, bowling, carnivals, and more. That's on top of everyday activities like swimming and water slides, various sports, yoga, fencing, a game and art space, and more.
In addition to the nature-centric camps below, the city has many opportunities for kids this summer! Check with your local garden, zoo or marine center/aquarium for special summer programs.
There's so much to explore all around us, and Trailblazers camp makes it their mission to help kids discover the wonder around them. Campers will discover their environment through science experiments, challenges and games, team-building exercises, nature walks, art, and music. Kids will have outside time every day — as their website states, "there is no such thing as bad weather, just inadequate clothes!" The camp is built around kids' creativity and allows exploration and curiosity to take center stage.
Ages: 4-10 Locations: Brooklyn Bridge, Prospect Park, Riverside Park, Morningside Park Camp dates: Jun 28-Aug 27, varies per location Fees (starting at): $560 Online:trailblazers.org
The Riverdale Stables horse riding camp is returning for 2022, though details are still tbd. The stables have an indoor ring, 85 stalls, and access to trails in Van Cortlandt Park. A recreation room is on standby in case of bad weather and for additional activities like games and arts and crafts. This camp is open to riders who can already walk and trot with a horse and all riders have to be evaluated to attend. If your child isn't quite there yet, the stables also have classes that can help them get up to speed before the camp.
Ages: tbd Locations: Van Cortlandt Park Camp dates: tbd Fees (starting at): tbd ($825 per week in 2021) Online:riverdalestables.com
Does your child dream of being a rock star? At this camp, kids for bands of 6 (or fewer) members then learn, rehearse, and perform together! Bands will work on improving their instrumental or vocal skills, and on collaborating with each other. Kids will have a chance to play cover songs and even write their own original works. There's an option to add a private lesson before camp for an additional fee.
Ages: 8-18 Locations: Music Makers NY at 260 W 36th St. (Midtown) Camp dates: Jun 20-Aug 19 Fees (starting at): $595 for 5 days Online:replaymusicstudios.com
Manhattan School of Music
Kids at this camp will experience the world of instrumental music in a professional setting. Instruction is available in classical music, musical composition, jazz singing, musical theater, and more. Trained teachers and professionals will help bring out kids' talents and improve their skills on their instruments, voice, or acting. Attendees will also get crucial skills training, like audition techniques, musical theory, and more. Camp culminates with a fully produced performance (including sets and costumes for the musical theater crowd).
The extended deadline for this camp was January 31 but late applications are still being considered. This program has a mandatory covid vaccination policy.
Ages: 8-17 Locations: 130 Claremont Ave. (Morningside Heights) Camp dates: Jul 5-29 for musical theater, Jul 11-29 for all other Fees (starting at): $2,940 for 3 weeks+$75 application fee Online:msmnyc.edu
NYC Guitar School
The NYC Guitar School summer camps are perfect for kids who are interested in making music and performing. Several options are available, including an intro camp for absolute beginners to guitar playing. The Rock Band camp is an intensive learning experience where kids will learn, practice, and perform for a live Facebook and YouTube audience. For a more in-depth experience, kids can spend two weeks working in a band, and get their songs professionally recorded at the end of all their hard work. If you prefer a remote option, the Guitar School is also hosting a virtual music production camp (for ages 12-17), which will teach teens how to record and produce their own work.
Ages: 8-17 Locations: Midtown and Astoria (Queens) Camp dates: 1 and 2 week sessions Jul 5-Aug 12 Fees (starting at): $400 for one week Online:nycguitarschool.com
Willie Mae Rock
Rock on with at the Willie Mae Rock Studio, where campers can try their hand at songwriting and guitar playing, as well as the electronics and software used in music-making. Each day will include activities designed to explore creativity and get hands-on with new experiences. Kids will also get to play different instruments, and create a finished work by the end of the session. This camp strives to empower girls, and is only open to girls and gender-expansive youth.
Ages: 10-17 Locations: 540 President Street, Suite 2H (Gowanus) Camp dates: Jul 11-22, two sessions Fees (starting at): $100 for a week, full and partial scholarships available Online:williemaerockcamp.org
Aviator Sports
General Sports Camps
Aviator Sports
Aviator Sports has a huge and impressive range of sports gyms and fields. Camp will take kids on an athletic adventure through gymnastics, parkour, ice skating, rock climbing, golf, swimming, soccer, pedal-carting, and more. Campers spend time outside and inside an air-conditioned space, and field trips are planned.
Ages: 4-15 Locations: Floyd Bennett Field 3159 Flatbush Ave. Camp dates: Jun 28-tbd Fees (starting at): $590 per week+$35 administration fee Online:aviatorsports.com
Kids in the Game
Kids in the Game
You can choose between general camp and sports + swim camp at Kids in the Game. Both focus on physical activity and physical and mental growth. At the sports + swim camp, campers will receive lessons through Physique Swimming and learn how to swim correctly from experts. Camp will utilize the indoor gym, outdoor basketball court, baseball fields, playground, and on-site pool for a well-rounded and active experience. Programs for the regular camp vary by location, but some perks include field trips to places like Governors Island and various museums, as well as themed camp weeks.
Ages: 4-13 Locations: Riverdale, Inwood, Upper East Side, Upper West Side, East Village, Greenpoint, and Park Slope Camp dates: Jun. 27-Aug. 19 Fees (starting at): $485 per week with full-summer registration; rate varies by location. Online:kidsinthegame.com
Chelsea Piers
Chelsea Piers
Chelsea Piers is well known for its sports programming, and for good reason. This summer, kids can take advantage of the professional facilities to take part in various athletic activities. The camp features gymnastics, basketball, parkour and ninja warrior, hockey, ice skating, golf, and so much more. Programs are available for a wide range of ages, and campers are sure to find a sport that they fall in love with over the course of the summer. Sport-specific camps are also available if your little athlete already knows what sport they want to pursue. "Elite" camps are also open for kids who are experienced and competitively engaging in certain sports.
Ages: 3-17 Locations: Chelsea Piers at Pier 62 (Chelsea) Camp dates: Jun 20-Sep 2 Fees (starting at): $515 per week Online:chelseapiers.com
Asphalt Green
Asphalt Green
If your child is interested in a sport, there's a good chance they'll find it at Asphalt Green. This impressively robust sports camp includes time in an outdoor field playing baseball, soccer, and football, as well as indoor sessions playing basketball, swimming, circus arts, tennis, and kickball. During downtime, campers will make arts and crafts, LEGO robotics, creative writing, and more.
Ages: 4.5-15 Locations: Upper East Side, Battery Park City Camp dates: Jun. 28-Aug 19 Fees (starting at): $5,900 for 4 weeks Online:asphaltgreen.org
Specialty Sports Camps
Advantage Tennis Club
Help your kids stay active this summer with a tennis camp! Kids are taken through drills, taught tennis playing skills, and spend plenty of time on the courts receiving expert instruction. In addition to tennis, games, and activities, afternoons are spent swimming.
Advantage Sports also has a general Day Camp if you'd rather not focus on tennis exclusively, which features sports, art, lessons, and field trips. Plus, early drop off and late pick up are available at no additional cost!
Ages: 7-17 for tennis, 4-14 for general day camp Locations: Manhattan Plaza Racquet Club, Roosevelt Island Racquet Club Camp dates: Jun 13-Sep 2 Fees (starting at): $595 per week Online:advantagetennisclubs.com
Homerun Baseball Camp
Run by passionate coaches, this camp introduces kids to baseball. Effort, passion, cooperation, and self-confidence are valued above doing well, though (of course) kids will also receive individualized instruction in how to play the sport well. Camp slots are limited this year in an effort to keep the group smaller, so register early to snag a spot.
Ages: 4-12 Locations: Parade Grounds in Prospect Park Camp dates: Jun 27-Sep 2 Fees (starting at): $500 per week (plus a 50% discount for siblings) Online:homerunbaseballcamp.com
Super Soccer Stars
Soccer Stars
At Super Soccer Stars, kids learn how to work together as they hone their soccer skills. Held at over 10 locations around the NYC metro area, this camp generally lasts three hours (though full-day camps are also available). Each child will be coached and allowed to learn at their own rate. In addition to soccer camps, a number of places are also offering soccer and art options, as well as multi-sport camps.
Ages: 2.5-16 Locations: Many locations around NYC (as well as Hamptons, Long Island, and Westchester) Camp dates: Jun 27-Sep 2 Fees (starting at): $330 per week Online:soccerstars.com
MMA New York City's Karate Camp
Martial arts is all about fitness and confidence, and kids will find both at the karate summer camp of Modern Martial Arts of NYC. Each day at camp, kids will receive training from an expert instructor and learn karate with an emphasis on safety and inner strength. Campers will also get a chance to try various padded weapons training, like Japanese sword-fighting, nunchucks, staff and stick-wielding, and more. There will be demonstrations for parents throughout the summer, to show off their progress. Besides being active, kids will also get a chance to let their creativity shine through arts and crafts projects like tie-dying, LEGO building, ninja mask making, and even lightsaber crafting. There are field trips planned as well, including various museums and attractions, and more.
Ages: 5-12 Locations: Upper East Side, Upper West Side, Tribeca, and Astoria Camp dates: Jun 27-Sep 2 Fees (starting at): $789 per week Online:mmanewyorkcity.com
The Movement Creative
Camps for Active Kids
The Movement Creative
Held entirely outdoors in and around Central Park, this is a good option for kids with tons of energy to burn. Campers will run, climb, and tumble around the park with close instruction from highly trained and experienced coaches, learning to move their bodies and improving their parkour skills with each step. Each week starts with the basics and adds steps one at a time to make it easy for anyone to learn the moves through progressions. If class can't be held outdoors for any reason (inclement weather, closures), it will take place online. Note that a N95/KN95 or surgical mark is required to attend camp — cloth masks, neck gaiters, or bandanas won't be accepted.
Ages: 7-18 Locations: Central Park (Colombus Circle entrance) Camp dates: Jul 5-Sep 2 Fees (starting at): $990 per week, lower prices available for those in need of financial aid Online:themovementcreative.com
Locals Surf School
Locals Surf School
Surf's up, dudes and dudettes, and your kids could be catching the waves or doing kick-flips this summer, with the help of Locals Surf School. Featuring a program that includes both surfing and skateboarding lessons, this summer camp is a good one for kids who love adventures and hitting the beach. You can be sure your child will get individualized attention: Classes are three kids to one instructor. This camp welcomes all skill levels, even if a child's never been surfing or skating before. All equipment is included in the fee, including surfboards, wetsuits, skateboards, and protective gear. Kids will also take part in games and learning exercises as part of their camp experience.
Ages: 5-15 Locations: Beach 91st St. Skatepark (Rockaway Beach) Camp dates: Jun 27-Sep 2 Fees (starting at): $885 per week Online:localssurfschool.com (sports) and localssurfschool.com (skate clinics)
Cooking Camps
Sur la Table
At Sur la Table, kids and teens will get expert instruction to become better chefs and gain confidence in the kitchen. Campers will engage in every part of the cooking process, from prep to plating. Days are themed, so one day kids might be kneading pizza dough for their pizzeria experience, and the next they'll be folding dumplings for their faux Chinese restaurant. Classes are 2-2.5 hours long and groups are split by age, 7-11 and 12-17. You can also check what's on the menu for each week before you make a choice — note that each program has its own menu, so menus are repeated a few times during the summer.
Ages: 7-17 Locations: 306 West 57th Street (Midtown) Camp dates: Jun 6-Aug 19 Fees (starting at): $249 per week Online:surlatable.com
Taste Buds Kitchen
This half-day (three hour) cooking camp is perfectly adapted for different ages. The youngest kids (4-8 years old) will learn how to mix, measure, and work safely through cooking stories and games, 9 to 13-year-olds will learn more advanced cooking techniques, hone knife skills, learn how to read recipes and use the burner safely, and clean up after themselves, and 13 to 17-year-olds will be treated to adult-level skills and recipes, advanced knife skills, food styling, and recipe creation. Regardless of age, all campers will make three recipes per day, featuring a mix of savory and sweet.
Kids over 10 can apply to become Counselors-in-Training and, if picked, can stay for a full day and get 20% off their session. You can sign your child up for a full week or per day. There are also online summer courses available with vegetarian recipes!
Ages: 4-17 Locations: 109 West 27th St. (Chelsea) Camp dates: Jun 27-Sep 2 Fees (starting at): $115 per day Online:tastebudskitchen.com
Art Camps
Greenwich House
This well-rounded camp features activities to engage small bodies and minds. With a focus on STEAM activities, Greenwich House will have kids drawing, painting, taking photos, making animations, and putting on plays. The camp will also engage creative minds through coding, architecture, science, and engineering projects, and get them moving through games, sports, and even cooking.
At this arts and crafts camp, kids are encouraged to explore different mediums and express themselves creatively and uniquely as only they can. Taking place in fully-equipped art studios, campers will learn skills like patience, collaboration, composition, and storytelling through many different art forms, including drawing and painting, stenciling, animation and cartooning, bookmaking, clay character creation, and many more. Camp sessions encourage self-expression and confidence in little creators of any level.
Ages: 5+ Locations: Cobble Hill, Long Island City, and Hoboken Camp dates: tbd Fees (starting at): $135 for a half day Online:playday.com
If your kids love to make things with their hands, they'll find a home at The Craft Salon. Here, kids can try their hand at drawing, sewing, clay, collage, weaving, macrame, and so much more. Group sizes are kept to a maximum of 10 kids, and covid vaccination proof is required to participate.
Ages: 8-13 Locations: 338 E 5th St #2B (Kengsington) Camp dates: Jun 28-Aug 26 Fees (starting at): $500 per week Online: thecraftsalonstudio.com
Plato Learning
Role Play, Gaming & Fantasy Camps
Camp Half-Blood
Camp Half-Blood is well known for its adventurous structure, using the power of imagination and role-play to learn and grow. Each camper becomes a Demigod and embarks on a quest to become a fully-fledged hero! Demigods will take on quests, train their (foam) sword-fighting skill, forge their own armor, battle magical monsters, and weave epic tales. Throughout their adventures, kids will learn about mythology and heroes of legend from different cultures like Odysseus, Beowulf Mulan, and Boudica. Most importantly, these emerging heroes will learn how to find the confidence inside to become real legends.
Ages: 2nd-5th grades Locations: Prospect Park, Central Park, Inwood Park, Alley Pond Park (Queens), Clove Lakes Park (Staten Island) Camp dates: Jun 13-Aug 19 Fees (starting at): $525 per week Online:camphalfbloodbklyn.com
Brooklyn Game Lab
Brooklyn Game Lab
This year, the Brooklyn Game Lab has two options: indoor and outdoor, or fully outdoor. The fully outdoor camp will have kids playing word games and taking part in physical activities using props like frisbees, hoops, cones, beanbags, and balls. Kids will also engage in mock adventures and "battles" using foam weapons and their imaginations.
The combination indoor and outdoor camp will also use tabletop games and board games to get kids thinking critically and strategically, as well as working together. Campers will also get a chance to discuss game design and craft their own games.
Ages: 6-13 Locations: Prospect Park Camp dates: Jun 27-Sep 2 Fees (starting at): $595 per week Online:brooklyngamelab.com
STEM Camps
Brooklyn Robot Foundry
Brooklyn Robot Foundry
Introduce kids to robotics at an early age at the Brooklyn Robot Foundry, where campers will build a themed robot (themes will be announced at a later date). No experience is necessary! The camp also includes games, crafts, and plenty of activities to get kids moving, including trips to the nearby park. Only kids 5-10 who are fully vaccinated can attend this camp, and online programs are also available for kids ages 6-12.
Ages: 5-10 Locations: 98 4th St. (Gowanus) Camp dates: Jun 28-Sep 2 Fees (starting at): $165 + $20 materials fee for single day, and $625 + $75 materials fee per week Online:brooklynrobotfoundry.com
Nory
Upon entering a Nory camp for the week, kids are given a quest. This might be a realistic one (how do you design a classroom that's easier to navigate for the blind?) or a more outlandish one (can you invent a robot that runs on "magic"?). Each camp week is then focused on learning about the topic, asking questions, and getting hands-on with various materials and skills from wiring RFID chips to woodworking. Mistakes are celebrated as steps toward success and students are encouraged to be inquisitive, resilient, and empathetic (Nory's three core values).
Ages: 3-12 Locations: Various locations around NYC Camp dates: Jun 27-Sep 2 Fees (starting at): $500 for half-day per week, $800 for full-day per week Online:nory.co
The Geek Forest's Summer of Steam
Does your child love Roblox or Minecraft? The Geek Forest will get them excited to design and code their own creations in the game world. Other programs get kids more hands-on with engineering and robotics through Battle Bots and LEGO. Besides these, the camp also has tabletop design and play lessons, explorations of webcomics, bookbinding, urban planning, and other awesome STEM topics to engage and educate.
Summer camp at Voxel Academy lets kids explore cutting-edge tech with expert instructors as they create a hands-on, inquiry-based learning experience. (And they get to take the project home with them.) Weekly camp topics include 3D printing, Minecraft and Roblox projects, VR, engineering and modding and more. Kids also take breaks and go outside, so they are not on screens all day. As of this writing, sessions are on sale.
Ages: 7- 14 Locations: 134 Atlantic Ave., Cobble Hill Camp dates: Jun. 27-Sept. 2 Fees (starting at): $775 and up Online:voxelacademy.org
Drama Camps
Cinema Kidz
Is your child a film director in the making? With this camp, they might just be. Cinema Kidz teaches kids about film and animation and sends them on a journey to make a film from start to finish. Campers are involved in the film-making process at every step of the way, from planning and storyboarding the idea, to filming, directing, and editing the film. Kids are encouraged to get hands-on with equipment and tech to learn through trying new things and even through making mistakes. Participants will leave the camp with filmmaking knowledge, as well as a finished project to share.
An online option is available, as well.
Ages: 5-15 Locations: Prospect Park, 202 W 97th St. (Upper West Side), Pine Street School (Lower Manhattan), BAM (Brooklyn), Camp dates: Jun 20-Aug 26 Fees (starting at): Inquire for price Online:cinemakidz.com
Treasure Trunk Theatre
The Treasure Trunk Theater is all about the joy of creating theater art. Campers will take part in dances and games, listen and sing along to music, and stretch their imagination as far as it can go. Kids will also learn theater skills and terms, and practice drama and theater arts every day in all its different forms. At the end of each day, photos and videos will be shared with parents so you can share the joy of your kids' performance. And it's fine if your kid isn't all that dramatic: Educators are skilled at helping these petite performers find confidence and celebrate their unique selves.
Ages: 3-8 Locations: Various locations, including Cadman Plaza Park, Prospect Park, Carroll Park, Fort Greene Park, and more Camp dates: Jun 6-Sep 9 Fees (starting at): $316 per week or $90 per class Online:treasuretrunktheatre.com
Hunter Canning
Child's Play
Let kids get their wiggles out by channeling them into characters on stage! Child's Play is a place where kids can hone their drama skills through performances. Guided by theater artists trained in early childhood education, kids get a chance to create stories and characters, make music videos, and play theater games. Each camp session ends with a movie that shows off all the work put together by the campers. Themes for the weeks include unicorns and dragons, circus adventures, superheroes, ocean adventures, and more.
Ages: 3-11 Locations: 193 Columbia St. (Cobble Hill) Camp dates: Aug 1-Sep 2 Fees (starting at): $400 per week Online:childsplayny.com
Play:ground NYC
Maker Camps
The Yard by Play:groundNYC
The Yard by Play:groundNYC is a truly self-guided, mixed-age experience. Kids have free reign in a junkyard full of tools, building materials, fine art and handcrafting materials. Campers of all ages can work together or separately, and each child can decide what to do with their time, whether they want to explore the hidden treasures in the Yard, make artworks and structures, or simply enjoy their time outdoors. Daily excursions will introduce children to other areas of Governors Island.
Ages: 1st-6th grades Locations: Governors Island Camp dates: Jun 20-Sep 2 Fees (starting at): $620 per week Online:play-ground.nyc
KoKo NYC
Miho Suzuki
KoKo NYC offers two camps. In the Soap Box Workshop, kids will plan, build, and test gravity racers using found objects and building materials. Once the vehicles are assembled, they'll take part in the South Slope Derby, racing down the street to the cheers of family, friends, and neighbors.
At the Mini Destroy + Construct camp, kids will use real tools to take apart old technology like printers and blenders to see how they work, They'll then design and build their own inventions and art based on what they learned from the "destroy" phase of the camp. The camp is specially designed for 5-7 year olds and is based in trust and safety, allowing kids to use real tools in a controlled and safe environment.
Ages: 5-7 Locations: South Slope, Gowanus Camp dates: Jun 20-Aug 26 Fees (starting at): $650 per week Online:kokonyc.org (Destroy + Construct) and kokonyc.org (Soap Box Workshop)
Language Immersion Camps
International School of Brooklyn
The ISB aims to fill children with a sense of wonder at the world around them, all while teaching Spanish and French through play and immersion. Groups of no more than 15 kids will be accompanied by 2-3 counselors and guided through exploration of various topics in the natural world all around them, from tiny tardigrades, bugs, and rodents, to mighty raptors, predators, and trees. Each week will focus on a different theme, and introduce STEM concepts and activities in your choice of language. The program accommodates children at all levels of French and Spanish mastery, helping beginners learn new vocabulary and honing the skills of more advanced speakers.
Ages: 4 years old through 5th grade Locations: 477 Court St. (Gowanus) Camp dates: Jul 5-Aug 5 Fees (starting at): $520 Online:isbrooklyn.org
French Institute: Alliance Française (FIAF)
The FIAF summer camp is inspired by the Tour de France, and will take campers on a journey through French language and culture. Guided by the world-famous bicycle race, kids of all language levels from complete beginners to native speakers will be introduced to the rhythms and sounds of the French language. Kids will learn about each area of the Tour de France, while also partaking in camp staples like games, movement activities, art, cooking, yoga and more. Older campers in their teens will receive age-appropriate instruction focusing on topics relevant to them, like fashion, wildlife, and the environment.
Online instruction is also available in the summer (for ages 1-20!), with lessons lasting 45-90 minutes.
Ages: 3-18 (online 1-20) Locations: 22 East 60th St. (Lennox Hill) Camp dates: Jun 20–Sep 2 Fees (starting at): $419 half-day per week, and $789 full-day per week Online:fiaf.org
Juguemos
Get the kiddos interested in Spanish culture and heritage at this camp, where instruction is done exclusively in Spanish for younger kids and in Spanish and English for older campers. Activities will center around nature, animals, food, music, art, and dancing, all drawing from Spanish-speaking countries around the world. Kids will engage with the outdoors through movement and exercise, nature exploration, structure play, and various workshops designed to develop various skills and improve confidence.
Ages: 2-6 Locations: Prospect Park at 3rd St. entrance Camp dates: Jun 27-tbd Fees (starting at): $720 per week (2 and 3 days a week options are also available) Online:juguemos.org
Collina Italiana
This thoroughly immersive program is serious about teaching kids Italian. In addition to entertaining games, music and dancing, campers will become acquainted with the language through vocabulary study, textbooks and workbooks, as well as flashcards and other educational activities. Every aspect of the program is designed to include Italian, including art, reading and writing, history, geography, and science. Outdoor play is also included at the nearby playground and Central Park (located only a few blocks away). Groups are limited to only six kids, so everyone will be sure to get the individualized attention they need.
An online option is available but it's only an hour-long in the mornings.
Ages: 3-10 Locations: 1556 Third Ave. at 87th St., Suite 602-603 (Carnegie Hill) Camp dates: Jun 20-Sep 1 Fees (starting at): $140 per 2 days at 2 hrs, full-day is $390 per 2 days, $80 per two days Online:collinaitaliana.com
Pusteblume NYC
This camp combines German and Spanish immersion with art, science, astronomy, marine biology, and more. Each week is themed around a different topic and campers will explore them in-depth. This year's lineup includes planning and carrying out science experiments, observing and analyzing the natural world, digging for dinosaur fossils and making dino puppets, and learning all about space (among other topics). You choose the instruction language, Spanish or German, when you sign your child(ren) up for camp.
Ages: 2-9 Locations: 244 West 14th St. (West Village) Camp dates: Jul 5-Aug 26 Fees (starting at): $476 Online:pusteblumenyc.org
CCBG NYC
At this camp, kids can learn the Chinese language while getting immersed in the culture. Campers will learn about Chinese mythology, fables and legends, and partake in cultural activities like Chinese chess, calligraphy and cooking. In addition, outdoor activities will be held like running, sports, and various field trips. Kids are split into groups of 4-5 per teacher, by their Mandarin skill level, then taught either mostly in Chinese (for lower levels) or completely in Chinese (for more advanced speakers).
An online option is available for a much lower price if you're interested but can't make it out to the camp locations.
Ages: 5-14 Locations: K-Town and Park Slope / Gowanus Camp dates: Jul 5-Aug 26 Fees (starting at): $675 per week, $70 per week for online option Online:ccbgnyc.com
Kibbutznik at Marks JCH
Get kids in touch with their Jewish roots at this Russian-language immersion Jewish summer camp. Days are full of interactive activities that introduce kids to Jewish and Russian culture through literature, media and art. The camp will also feature themed weeks, covering topics like fashion, Russian food, music, theater, science, Macciabah, and more. Swimming is also offered twice a week.
Ages: 3-8 Locations: Hannah Senesh Community Day School at 342 Smith St. (Carroll Gardens) Camp dates: Jun 28-Aug 12 Fees (starting at): $550 per week Online:jchparkslope.org
Looks like holding our breath that Chicago Public Schools would return to in-person learning did the trick, a plan is in place to get kids back in seats. But, we still have scheduled no-school days coming up whether it be for Martin Luther King Jr. Day, in-service days or parent-teacher conferences. We gathered creative ideas to keep kids entertained, moving and learning when they have days off. We’ll keep adding to the list as new options pop up, so bookmark this story and check back in.
Camps & Classes
Stay Active at Home with Chicago Park District
iStock
The Chicago Park District is offering 50 different free at-home classes the week of Jan. 10. to keep kids moving and you can access their on-demand content any time. You'll find options for fitness, storytelling, arts & culture, activity sheets and even videos that teach sign language.
Sign Kids Up for In-Person Cooking Camp
When you find yourself with random days off from school, The Kids' Table has you covered with full-day camps that offer the perfect mix of cooking, eating and play. Kids spend half their day in the kitchen chopping, grating and rolling their way to delicious dishes with the guidance of chef instructors. The rest of the day is reserved for a craft, a movie or some good old 'ole fashion play. Currently, camps are scheduled for Jan. 13, 14, 17 & 28, Feb. 21 & Apr. 8.
Keep an eye on BASH xyz'sInstagramand website for last-minute camp announcements that keep kids moving and exercising those creative juices.
Make a Day of it Camp at Wishcraft
Wishcraft in Lakeview offers kids ages 5-12 a place to get creative with day-long camps. Class is 9 a.m.-3 p.m. with early drop-off options. They have a camp available on Jan. 28. Beware, they fill up fast!
Art Class with Mr. Dave Music
Mr. Dave Music is offering Art + Sound: Paint to the Music class for ages 3-6 on Wednesdays, 4 p.m.-4:35 p.m. This open-ended art experience with Noodle Art Studio utilizes paint in innovative ways to allow kids to interpret art in a way that feels authentic to them. For kids up to 5, he offers in-person classes all week long.
Ballet & Music + Movement with Bubbles Academy
Bubbles Academy is offering two free virtual classes for Chicago kids. Virtual Bubble Ballet on Tuesdays in January, 9 a.m.-9:20 a.m., introduces kids ages 2-5 to the basics of ballet through thematic storytelling. They'll get both their bodies and imaginations moving.
Virtual Music + Movement unites music lovers and those who like to move! Kids ages 5 & under can join in for a class for jammin', singing, dancing and instrumental fun on Fridays in January at 11 a.m.
Get Outside & Move
Take a Walk in Awe at Morton Arboretum
Five massive outdoor sculptures created exclusively for Morton Arboretum by artist Daniel Popper rise above the natural landscapes in the Human + Nature exhibition. The 15- to 26-foot-tall sculptures are installed across the 1,700-acre site and lead guests to areas they may not otherwise explore. Using thought-provoking human forms paired with elements of nature, each piece will bring attention to the deep connections between humans and nature.
Bundle Up & Figure 8
Sock skating on a wooden floor is a blast, but there's nothing like feeling the cool breeze on your face as you glide across a real ice rink. Lace up for this essential winter activity. Chicago has rinks that are free, some that are new and many offer loads of other activities in the same location. See for yourself by reading Ice, Ice Baby: Chill Places to Ice Skate in Chicago.
Take Ski or Snowboard Lessons
Maria Chambers
Get the kids outside for much-needed winter fun at Four Lakes Alpine Snowports in Lisle. From ski and snowboard private or semi-private lessons for beginners to a challenging terrain park for the most adventurous, Four Lakes is the close-by cure for your winter boredom.
Go on a Scavenger Hunt
Show your kids the coolness of their hometown with this scavenger hunt idea. It’ll take you to the tippy-top of the Navy Pier Ferris Wheel and strolling the Chicago River to see the moveable bridges (or, view them from the warmth of your car). Best part? You can do all this in a totally safe, socially distanced way that’ll keep Covid-19 far, far away. You can download this scavenger hunt for kids here.
See Eagles at Starved Rock
How about a quick nature field trip? Starting in mid-January, thousands of eagles migrate to Starved Rock State Parkand stay through March. They’re easy to spot as they soar through the sky or perch on the treetops. Bring binoculars!
Take part in Winterland at Gallagher Way's newest attraction, ice bumper cars. Bump, slide and spin on The Rink, Jan. 3-Jan. 30.
Bundle Up for a Wintry Hike
We’ll admit, a Chicago winter can be tough. But, a dose of fresh air, unforgettable scenery and a chance to spy on animals in their natural habitat is a guaranteed day of wintry family fun. There are beautiful trails all around the city that'll have you lacing up your boots, strapping an infant to your back and exploring.
Chicago Children's Museum created online resources to stay connected and support Chicago families. For creative ideas to keep the kids entertained and learning, visit their Recipes for Play at Home and Parenting Playbook pages. These online resources give at-home activities, video guides and well-curated content.
Tap Kohl Children's Museum of Play Ideas
Visit Kohl Children's Museum's Teaching Resources page which was created to support parents, caregivers and teachers in bringing interactive lessons to the home.
Give the Kids a Good Laugh
Storytown Improv
Plan a virtual playdate for the kids with the help of Storytown Improv. While Storytown has halted their family-favorite in-person performances, they are using the same tools that have made their Saturday performances a success to host virtual laugh sessions.
Get Help with Creativity for Indoor Activities
From crafting your own robots to writing stories, hereare more than 100 activities and inside games for kids that’ll keep everyone busy.
Fun Indoor Spots
Museum of Illusions
MOI has over 80 mind-bending illusions and is designed in a way that encourages kids to have fun while learning the mechanics behind each and every illusion. They have a variety of art-focused brain teasers around the museum that offer kids a bit of a challenge, as well.
Skydeck Chicago
Located 103 stories atop world-famous Willis Tower, Skydeck Chicago is the perfect destination for a family field trip. They recently underwent an extensive redevelopment of the lower level, delivering a brand-new interactive museum that celebrates the unique personality, history, neighborhoods and sites of Chicago.
In advance of visiting, set up a mini lesson plan and reference Skydeck’s extensive Teacher’s Guide. You'll find topics related to the history, design and construction of Willis Tower, environmental efforts at the building, and even lesson plans and worksheets for subjects including physics, social studies and middle school science. While visiting, participate in a Scavenger Hunt to keep the kids engaged and print Skydeck coloring sheets.
Indulge in Good Food & Drink
Get a Sugar Fix at Jo Jo's Shake Bar
Jo Jo's Shake Bar
Jo Jo's Shake Bar's heated Winter Wonderland tent boasts a massive Christmas tree, oversized presents, private igloos and a red Ford pick-up truck, making it a perfect backdrop to snap a photo while you throw down one of the biggest, most-decorated milkshakes you've ever seen. While the Wonderland is only around until Jan. 17, their shake creations are available year-round.
Hunt for Chicago’s Best Cup of Hot Cocoa
When Jack Frost comes nipping at your nose, it’s time to go sipping. Make a day off on a wintry Chicago day a little easier to swallow with a steaming cup of hot chocolate. If your kids love cocoa—or need a good introduction to it—check out local restaurants or cafes that make their own from scratch.
Intro Your Kids to a Chicago Hot Dog
Love ’em or leave ’em, hot dogs are big in Chicago, and if your kids haven’t begged for one yet, they will soon. We love the on-the-go ease (no silverware!) and colorful condiments (kids get a pass where the sacrilege of using ketchup is concerned). Use days off as an excuse to grab one at a legendary local hot dog spot and turn eating into an adventure.
Employ Extra Hands
Need Help with a Sitter?
Urban Sitter
Use our list of babysitting services to find childcare help if you need a bit of help balancing school closures and work commitments, or just an extra set of hands.
Set Up Meal Deliveries
Check one thing off your to-do list by signing up for one of our favorite food delivery services.
We’re all spending a little more time at home than usual and while technology most definitely can be a lifesaver, now is also a good time to instill important life skills in our kids, too. Teaching children to navigate the kitchen along with basic cooking and baking skills is not only useful, but fun! Keep scrolling to see how programs are offering little to no-cost ways to spend family time in the heart of the home.
CocuSocial is now offering virtual kids online cooking classes! All classes feature professional chefs and are centered around summer treats that include Creamsicles & Ice Pops, Easy Beachy Cupcakes, Rainbow Cake Pops, Ice Cream Cookie Sandwiches and more! Classes start at $15 and are offered in real-time for a true in-class feel.
Sick of trying to find new recipes the whole family will enjoy? Teuko takes the guesswork out of finding the best accessories, recipes and ideas for getting everyone to eat healthy! The free community shares amazing lunch ideas, easy how-to's and ways to make mealtime fun on the Teuko blog.
Mr. Holmes Bakehouse
Mr. Holmes Bakehouse
Want to spend time in the kitchen but not sure where to start? Mr. Holmes Bakehouse has you covered! Get the help and ingredients you need to whip up a living starter for the rest of your life with the Bread Starter Kit. The $25 box comes with all the ingredients and instructions to make a White Country Loaf with the entire fam. Mr. Holmes Bakehouse also offers a Chocolate Chip Cookie kit which makes 16-24 cookies, and twenty percent of all sales will be given back to participating PTAs and schools.
Nonprofit Food Literacy Center is committed to bringing families together through food. The organization is currently offering tools that will help kids and parents learn to cook together, that include recipes, worksheets and lesson plans.
King Arthur wants kids to know how easy it is to bake bread! The company not only has an online tutorial perfect but a fun kids recipe booklet, too!
Delish Digital Cooking Classes
iStock
Join Delish's editorial director Joanna Saltz and her kids went live on Instagram every week day to share cook-along videos for the entire fam. You can catch all the videos on the Delish IGTV channel.
Head to America’s Test Kitchen Kids where all resources are free! Families can check out recipes, activities and experiments, plus daily lesson plans and videos. Don't miss out on the huge collection of free recipes, and visit their social sites where they'll be answering home cook questions.
Raddish Kids
Raddish Kids
Families can visit Camp Raddish to access free content including an at-home cooking camp program, recipes your kids can make with pantry staples and additional learning extensions across science, geography, language arts, and more.
Kids Cook Real Food
iStock
Kids Cook Real Food is the perfect way to get your kiddos up to speed in the kitchen. You can join as a VIP member for $150 and get 45 cooking lessons, or join for 12 months for just $50! Designed to build skills and not just follow recipes, Kids Cook Real Food is the perfect online cooking class for kids.
Tia Mowry's Quick Fix
Tia Mowry via YouTube
Want to cook with a celeb? Tia Mowry's Quick Fix YouTube channel brings the family together with fun and easy recipes. Her channel is all about making quick work of life's daily dilemmas.
McCormick Flavor Maker App
McCormick
We love the McCormick Flavor Maker app as a way to get a little kitchen inspiration and involve kids in the cooking process. Through the app, users can source new recipes, watch cooking tutorials, access articles on the latest food trends and track all their grocery needs in one place. Users are additionally able to scan McCormick herbs, spices and flavors to build their own digital pantry and get instant access to tips, related recipes, ingredients and nutritional information.
If your kids are itching to get in the kitchen have them join Rachael Ray and her celebrity chef friends for a free interactive, online cooking camp. The camp will offer your entire family the opportunity to learn important and fun cooking skills, as well as recipes you can make at home.
Camp will run daily from Thurs., Jul. 30 through Fri., Aug. 14 and will take place at 2 p.m. ET/11 a.m. PT on Zoom. There will be a total of 16 camp sessions which will last about 45 minutes each.
The target age group for campers is 8 to 15 years old, but everyone is welcome to join. Parents are encouraged to participate with their kids to help produce the recipes and ensure kitchen safety.
Attendance to the camp will be free and will only require on-line registration to receive the Zoom conference instructions and details for that day’s camp session.
View the class list, and be sure to check back for more classes being added every day. Limited spots are available so reserve your virtual seat today.
Proceeds from sponsorships and optional online donations will be split between two incredible organizations both of which provide support for youth development and empowerment: Boys & Girls Clubs of America and the Rachael Ray Yum-o! scholarship for students to attend Florida International University’s Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management.
Scratch coding? Advanced robotics? TikTok video production? Sure, your kids could learn one of those cutting-edge skills online this summer, but, let’s face it: Summer is already more than half over, and right now what you need most is any vaguely structured activity. We’re here for you! All “Real-Talk” online summer camps meet daily via Zoom from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. to give working-at-home parents a (theoretical) break. Rates are on a sliding scale; pay whatever you feel three hours of occupied-kid time is worth (no, you can’t send us your firstborn—sorry).
For Grades K-2:
1. How Loud Can You Yell?
Each day, campers will compete to talk the loudest and most often, ideally repeating themselves 5-10 times before their counselor has a chance to respond. They might be playing Roblox or Minecraft or something; it’s hard to tell with all the noise.
2. Click All the Buttons
Mute? Unmute? Camera on/off? Ad for a random app? Click them all, as quickly as you can, in this fast-paced tech-skills camp for young elementary schoolers. Plus, prevent summer slide: Practice your spelling by typing rude words in the chat!
3. Where’s That One LEGO?
Experienced counselors will demonstrate fun, creative LEGO projects…that campers will totally miss out on because they can’t locate the one minuscule piece that the entire build hinges on. Instead, they’ll dump ALL the LEGO bricks they own on the floor to search for it, not find it, and start throwing things.
For Grades 3-5:
1. Destroy the Kitchen
In this fun virtual cooking camp, kids will use approximately 134 kitchen implements each day as they work to produce a single dish of some kind of syrup or sauce (technically, it might be gravy). Sorry, cleaning up isn’t part of the daily camp schedule.
2. Hide in Plain Sight
Join your scheduled Zoom call, then turn off audio and video for the entire session, avoiding all possible interactions with other campers and counselors. Perfect for Harry Potter fans, because it’s like wearing an invisibility cloak!
3. “Mom, Can You?”
Tweens who never miss an opportunity to roll their eyes or tell you that they “CAN DO IT MYSELF, MOM, JESUS!” will interrupt your department meeting to ask for help with needs like locating art supplies, plugging in the iPad and figuring out which direction to turn the faucet to get hot water.
For Grades 6+
1. Just Sleep
Stay in bed. As long as you want. Honestly, as long as you don’t bother your working-from-home parents before noon, we’ll consider this camp a success.
I'm a mom of two living in the Bay Area and writing/editing web content for a living. My kids love screens, LEGOS, screens, books, and screens. I also love screens, but I love my kids more. I'm a runner, a reader, a TV watcher, and an ally.
With the fate of summer camps hanging in the balance, most parents do not know what to expect this year. More and more online camp options are popping up to assist parents. Raddish Kids announced that they are offering virtual cooking camps and classes exclusively on Outschool.com in addition to free recipes and activities at RaddishKids.com.
Before Raddish became a cooking subscription kit, they offered in-person kids cooking classes and summer camps. This year marks the 12th year the service is offering camps and the first year they will be offered virtually. Raddish Kids’ camp themes kick off in mid-June and include “Restaurant Camp,” “Around the World” and “Summer Fun.” The week-long camps are suitable for kids ages 8 – 13. Individual classes such as making homemade biscuits and butter are also being offered on Outschool.com.
“Our cooking camps are designed to excite kids about the joys of cooking and help them hone a lifelong skill,” said Raddish Kids’ Founder Samantha Barnes. “From empowering kids to start and run their own restaurant to taking them on a tour of the world through flavors, our goal remains the same: to nurture kids’ confidence in the kitchen and beyond.”
In addition to its virtual summer cooking camps, Raddish is also offering free recipes and learning activities on its website alongside a free downloadable guide that lets kids create their own in-home cooking camp. They’ll learn key skills such as cracking eggs and kneading dough while they make staple recipes like pizza dough and crepes. Parents can help kids avoid the summer slide with free Raddish Recipe Connections that teach science, math and literacy as they learn to make a delicious recipe.
Traveling might be on hold, but kids and families can still travel the globe from their kitchen through Raddish Kids’ kits that introduce kids to other cultures through flavors, aromas and immersive activities. Whether venturing to North Africa in Raddish Kids’ Made in Morocco kit and making chicken tagine, or exploring Japanese culture, making sushi and teriyaki chicken skewers in July’s Ticket to Tokyo kit, families are sure to create memories that make up for lost travels.
Raddish’s popular subscription kits are a great screen-free way to engage kids. Designed for kids 4 -14, each monthly kit features a different theme ranging from seasons and holidays to cultures and creative cookery. June’s kit, available for purchase May 21st, is called Edible Elements and connects kids to nature. They will explore ancient elements of earth, air, fire, and water, and make plant-based burgers, a giant puffy pancake, toasted marshmallow pie and homemade ice cream. Each Raddish kit includes three laminated, beautifully illustrated recipe guides that feature a recipe, culinary skill and fun facts as well as an apron badge, a cooking tool, a hands-on activity, table talk cards and online bonus materials.
Amid coronavirus fears and school closings, parents are looking for ways to keep their kids busy. Many families are suddenly finding themselves trying to balance work with helping their kids keep up with school assignments. Kids culinary subscription kit Raddish Kids is lending a helping hand to families seeking fun, educational and entertaining activities for their children while schools are closed and extracurricular activities are restricted.
Raddish Kids (after giving away 10,000 free kits last Friday) is giving away 25,000 more free kits on Thursday, Mar. 19th at 9am PST.
Beginning today, families can visit Raddish to order their free kit and also access free content including an at-home cooking camp program, recipes your kids can make with pantry staples and additional learning extensions across science, geography, language arts, and more.
“As a working mom, I know firsthand the impact that school closures have on families,” said Raddish Kids Founder Samantha Barnes. “We hope these free kits are a helpful resource for parents and inspire family togetherness during this period of social distancing.”
The complimentary Raddish kit is called Swedish Eats and celebrates traditions and flavors from Sweden. Travel may be restricted right now, but kids can still explore the culture and traditions of other countries right from their own homes. The kit is geared towards children in elementary and middle grades and featured three laminated illustrated recipe guides for Swedish Meatballs, Scandinavian Smorgasbord and Nordic Cinnamon Buns. Additionally, each kit includes a kid-sized cooking tool, apron patch and fun learning activity.
“The kitchen is the perfect place to cultivate academic skills like math, science, geography, culture, reading, among other subjects outside of the traditional classroom,” said Barnes who is a former educator as well as a mother who has home schooled her kids. “Our kits weave in these subjects alongside key culinary skills that nourish the mind, expand the palate and empower kids in the kitchen and beyond.”
The island of Manhattan is an amazing place to play outdoors, especially with everything there is to do in the summer. But sometimes, you want to head inside for some A/C, a nearby bathroom, and maybe some toys or entertainment for your kid. That’s where these Manhattan indoor spots for drop-in play save the day. From drop-in singalongs and story times for babies and toddlers, to indoor playgrounds for older kids, these are the best places to hit up when you need an inside place to play.
UNION SQUARE
Union Square Play
Union Square Play
Opened in the fall of 2018, Union Square Play sees you. All of its classes, with the exception of a new mom's group with co-founder Jennie Monness, are drop-in, space permitting. (If you need to plan, you can also register for classes up to four weeks in advance.) In addition to numerous singalongs of all styles, classes, which aim to be thoughtful ands engaging versus entertaining and overstimulating, include Mandarin, Spanish, yoga, sensory art, sensory play, music, building, and more. You can see the full calendar here, filled with summer options; it's even more robust come fall. Open play in a welcoming space filled with toys and materials selected to encourage self-directed and creative play, is available for $30 for an all day pass, or $150 for unlimited use each month.
Run by two Upper East Side sister (and moms), The Playroom NYC offers 3,000 square feet of fun in the form of a climbing structure, dress-up and stage area, play bodega and pre-walker space. You can drop-in any time, and pay the one-time fee of $35 (with $15 reentry fee if you want to leave and come back), get a multi-play pack (5 passes for $135, 10 for $250, etc.) or get a membership for unlimited play, which start at $250 for a month. A shoe- and nut-free facility, The Playroom NYC also hosts birthday parties, classes and special events like movie night.
Yes, there are actual animals at this Manhattan "farm"—chickens, rabbits, turtles, and other friends, which you and the kids can drop in and meet, but The Art Farm open play on weekdays for kids 6 months and up also features arts and crafts, and creative play in the cheerful playroom; stay and hour or the whole day. On Fun Fridays from 9:30 - 11:30 a.m., kids 18 months and older enjoy all of this plus a singalong. Mornings on The Farm take place Saturday and Sunday mornings, and the Farm Foodies Cooking Class has kids ages 2-8 making tasty treats of all kinds. (P.S. Spending some time in the Hamptons this summer? There's an Art Farm out there, too.) Drop-in rates start at $20 per child, with discounts for bulk passes.
431 E. 91st Street (between York & 1st Ave.), 2nd Fl. Upper East Side 212-410-3117 Online: theartfarms.org
Of course, they do music at TLB Music (and classes, and camps, and parties...) but you can also just drop in and play here in a fully-equipped playroom! You'll find eco-friendly, developmental toys and activities for babies, toddlers and kids up to six years old. Fun can be had with a clubhouse, rock-climbing mountain, big and little slides, a play kitchen with food, puzzles, large soft blocks, a train table, and more. While you don't need a reservation, it's best to call on very cold, hot, rainy or snowy days, as they do book up. Play is $20 for members, and $25 for non-members. (You can also book out the whole space at certain times during the week if you want to have a play date with friends.)
266 E. 78th St. 212-744-0404 Upper East Side Online: tlbmusic.com
UPPER WEST SIDE
Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan
Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan
Got a new baby on the Upper West Side? JCC Manhattan is a good spot for all kinds of family classes and programming, but you can drop-in for many early developmental sessions like Tummy Time, Crawlers, Wobbly Walkers, and Toddler Play. On Fridays, stop by Shajam music class to kick off the weekend. Rates are $15 for members/$18 for non-members; pre-registration for drop-ins is encouraged as space is limited.
334 Amsterdam Ave. at 76th St. Upper West Side 646-505-4444 Online:
FLATIRON
CAMP
Mimi O'Connor
Ok, yes, CAMP is ultimately a store. However, it's also a really cool experience tailored to kids. A Flatiron District storefront filled with lots of cool toys and goods, as well as a Milk Bar location, CAMP also contains a bookcase that opens into a much larger space. (Going through this "secret" entrance is a pretty magical way to start a visit.) In this second space, which changes themes every few months, you'll find play areas, workshops, performances, and lots more toys for browsing. Camp's current theme is "Cooking Camp", which follows the journey of food from farm to table. Free fun includes jumping on a mini trampoline, getting down in the ice box disco, climbing aboard a truck to ferry some "food" and cooking it up in a deluxe play kitchen. You can also sign-up in advance for workshops and shows, and if you're really into CAMP, you can become a member. Read our review from when it opened here!
Chelsea Piers' Field House has options for both little and big kids. For kids ages six months to four years old, head to the Toddler Gym, a colorful padded playscape where little ones can explore, climb, and tumble in safety. Sessions are $12 and typically held 9:30 a.m. - noon and 1 - 5 p.m., but schedules do change, so call ahead to confirm. For older children ages five to 16, there's Rock-n-Roll sessions, during which kids do 45 minutes of rock-climbing, and 45 minutes of gymnastics. (Cost is $32.) These sessions are held on weekends and school holidays; again, call to confirm before heading over.
Chelsea Piers, Pier 62 23rd Street and Hudson River Park Chelsea 212-336-6500, Ext. 0 Online: chelseapiers.com
A wet and wild time can be had by all at this Chelsea play and learning center. A two-story treehouse features slides, a secret star cave, kaleidoscopes, a see-through floor and whisper tubes. What takes this place to the next level, though is the water play area, which is outfitted with hoses, jets, waterwheels, dump buckets and lots of opportunity for interactive learning. Additionally, a soft play area for babies and young toddlers can be found here, and older kids can explore another play area with a ball pit, dress up area, large whiteboard for doodling and drawing, and multiple toys and games. Recommended for kids anywhere from 18 months to eight years of age, City Treehouse requires reservations, which you can make online or by calling. Bring a change of clothes and water shoes — kids understandably get soggy here! City Treehouse is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and slots are $30 for two hours.
The Heimbold Family Children's Play and Learning Center
Tina Buckman, Scandinavia House/The American-Scandinavian Foundation, 2011
It's probably not a shocker that Park Avenue's Scandinavia House has one of the most aesthetically pleasing play spaces in the city. Designed for kids ages one to five, The Heimbold Family Children's Play and Learning Center is only open to the public on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (for a modest $15/child fee), but it's worth the trip. The bright and playful space features two distinct yet complementary areas – an activity room and a sensory room. Highlights include a reading theater, sensory tunnel, custom LEGO corner, landscaped BRIO train table, indoor climbing corner, mushroom house, a “please touch” wall, light landscape, and imported Scandinavian educational elements. If you fall in love (which you might) you can gain access to the space all week long by joining Scandinavia House. One note: kids must be walking on their own to play here. (Note: the Center will be closed August 6 to September 2.)
This East Village institution offer lots of drop-in options for kids ages two months to five years, including Baby & Me Yoga, Messy Play, singalongs, and more. Prices range from $20-$35 per class, and if you buy a "punch card" for multiple classes, you get a discount. (If you're a member, some classes are free.) See schedule and descriptions here; call 646-395-4310 to purchase classes, or 646-395-4336 for more info on offerings.
344 E. 14th St. Stuyvesant Town 212-780-0800 Online: 14streety.org
EVERYWHERE
Your Local Library
iStock
Don't forget: libraries all over Manhattan (and the city) offer free programming for kids of all ages. And it's not just storytime (although of course that happens!) Drop-in for LEGO play, arts & crafts, toddler play, board games, special programming like concerts and performances, and more! Click the link below, filter by audience and search for your local happenings!
Many (most!) bookstores in Manhattan hold story times, author appearances, and special events weekly— and they're typically free. Check out The Strand, where characters are known to make appearances, Books of Wonder at its Flatiron location or uptown on the west side, Bank Street Books near Columbia University, and Book Culture, where story times are held in English, Spanish and German! McNally Jackson on Prince Street has themed story time every Saturday with author Yvonne Brooks, Housing Works hosts a weekly story time for $5, and Barnes & Noble hosts events at its locations throughout Manhattan.
We all know that teaching kids the joys of cooking early leads to better health. But not all of us have an inner-Martha Stewart in us to show kids just how to do it. There’s a new culinary school in town that embraces farm-to-table, all while making cooking fun for the littles. Read on for our dishy scoop!
photo: Sprouts Cooking Club
Serious foodie roots
Sprouts Cooking Club originated in San Francisco, and its founder Karen Rogers studied under Alice Waters, the guru of using local ingredients and making healthy food that actually tastes great. Through her work with Waters, and other work with British celebrity chef Jaime Oliver, Rodgers created Sprouts Cooking Club, where kids can learn to cook — and love it along the way.
Move over Goldfish, there’s a better post-school snack in town
Sprouts is offering after-school classes that take place at your child’s school. Your child doesn’t have to be a mini Wolfgang Puck to enjoy the classes. With all skill levels welcome, this is a great way to introduce your child to healthy habits in a fun way. Working with both private and public schools, the Sprouts team can create a program in 8 week sessions. If there’s no formal kitchen space at the school, the Sprouts team can work with school administrators to create a safe cooking environment that can be adjusted to fit any school’s classroom space. The goal is to get more students cooking hands-on with local, seasonal ingredients with an emphasis on healthy, simple, and delicious food. Offered for elementary, middle, and high school students, the 90 minute classes include a teacher, ingredients and tools needed for the class. The base price is $27.50 per child, per class, but prices can be flexible depending on the school’s needs.
A Culinary Option during School Breaks
Sprouts is offering youth cooking classes this Winter and through their summer camp offerings they are working on a 3-day Winter Cooking Camp that will take place at the end of December during students’ Winter Break. But this isn’t your standard cook-and-eat operation. Through Sprouts Cooking Club students are taught by guest chefs from some of the most popular restaurants in town. (think Union Square Cafe, Luke’s Lobster, to name a few). With blindfolded palate play and camper cook-offs, this isn’t your standard cooking camp. All cooking camps take place in restaurant kitchens throughout Manhattan and Brooklyn.
photo: Sprouts Cooking Club
The Deets of Camp
Geared towards kids age 7-13, the camps are from 11am-5pm, with pre-camp programs running from 9am-11am. At Pre-camp, kids explore some of the culinary highlights of the city, including visits to farmer’s markets, bakeries, community gardens, and cookbook stores.
You can sign up for the Winter Camp option by the day. Summer Camp 2018 will run Monday through Friday during the last three weeks of July (July 9th – 27th). While they are still working on their line up of chefs for next summer, we did get a sneak peek of some of their partners which include Mini Melanie, A&E Supply Co., and Harlem Grown.
Each 5-day camp week costs $590, and because Sprouts Cooking Club has a mission to ensure that all kids have the chance to cook alongside the city’s best chefs there are full and partial scholarship options to the camps.
We suggest you join their mailing list to be the first to know about their newest culinary adventures, including Winter Camp schedules and news about their new restaurant partners.
photo: Sprouts Cooking Club
But Camps aren’t the only Thing Cooking…
If there’s no formal kitchen space, the Sprouts team can work with school administrators to create a safe cooking environment that can be adjusted to fit any school’s classroom space. The goal is to get more students cooking hands-on with local, seasonal ingredients with an emphasis on healthy, simple, and delicious food. These 90-minute After-School classes are offered for elementary, middle, and high school students. And because all skill levels are welcome, this is a great way to introduce your child to healthy habits in a fun way.
photo: Sprouts Cooking Club
Yes, they do Birthday Parties, Right at Home
Each party package uses recipes and themes based off of Sprouts Cooking Clubs’ favorite chef and restaurant partners, including Alice Waters and Jamie Oliver. Party package start at $400 and include all ingredients, a group of Sprouts team members to lead the class, and kitchen clean-up.
