From glam parties to ninja warrior parties to indoor skydiving, these Chicago spots really deliver the fun

Let’s face it unless your child’s birthday is in July or August, you might not want to plan an outdoor party. Even if it is warm enough, you’ll need a backup plan in case of rain. You also need to think about sun exposure and providing shade to beat the heat. A temperature-controlled venue sure makes things easier.

If you need to plan a kid’s party, whether it be during a chilly month, or you just want to avoid all the contingency plans that come with an outdoor party, we are here to help. There are tons of creative indoor options in Chicagoland for kids who like to play music, bake, jump around, and everything in between. There are even parties that bring the festivities to you! Read on to get some great ideas for an indoor birthday party.

Best Indoor Birthday Spots in Chicago for Active Kids

Altitude
Chicago’s first trampoline play space and activity center features state-of-the-art trampoline entertainment as well as a variety of activities such as Wipe-Out, Basketball, Dodgeball, Rock Wall, Foam Pit, Trapeze, Kids Court for toddlers, and a parent lounge for adults.

Locations in West Loop & Skokie
Online: altitudechicago.com

Brooklyn Boulders
This place will make your wall-climbing kids straight-up giddy. They offer several indoor rock climbing terrains for your guests to conquer and knowledgeable instructors are there every step on the way up, up, up. 

West Loop
Online: brooklynboulders.com

CircEsteem
Walk a tightwire, learn to juggle, or teeter-totter on a gym wheel. Whether your birthday kid aspires to join Cirque du Soleil or just wants to learn a new trick or two, these fetes give kids a chance to experience circus arts in a fun and safe environment.

Evanston
Online: circesteem.org

Goldfish Swim School
Party-goers enjoy exclusive use of the facility, while staff guide your guests through games, races, and water fun, or simply lifeguard as they monkey around in the 90-degree pool. After you’ve all dried off, enjoy pizza, cupcakes, and drinks in the decorated party area.

13 locations throughout Chicagoland
Online: goldfishswimschool.com

iFly
Following training with an instructor, your little birthday birds will enter a vertical wind tunnel and experience the freedom of flight. Back at home, your child can see their flight session on the DVD included with the birthday package.

Lincoln Park, Naperville, & Rosemont
Online: iflyworld.com

Ultimate Ninjas
Windy City Ninjas and Ultimate Ninjas have merged and will continue to offer some of the best birthday parties in town. This birthday party spot is pretty exciting, with parties led by pro Ninjas from NBC’s American Ninja Warrior, so kids get to celebrate with their favorite stars climbing walls, taking on obstacles, and dominating at dodgeball.

Northcenter
Online: ultimateninjas.com

Best Indoor Birthday Spots in Chicago for the Sports Lovers

Hi-Five Sports Club
Pick your favorite sport from soccer, baseball, football, kickball, dodgeball, hockey, lacrosse, or capture the flag, and Hi-Five will plan and staff the fun for up to 25 of your closest pals, either at one of their locations or wherever you choose.

Several locations throughout Chicagoland
Online: hifivesportsclubs.com

Naperville Yard and Westmont Yard
Two words make this venue unique. Nerf Wars. While nerf mischief between siblings happens on the regular, take the battle, (and wartime cleanup), out of your house. A party includes access to a play structure, inflatables, field games, invitations, goodie bags, and more!

Naperville
Online: napervilleyard.com

Westmont
Online: westmontyard.com

POW! Kids
For kids who harbor fantasies of being a superhero, ninja warrior, or any other leaping, jumping, or swinging creature, Pow! Kids offers fantastic options. The base party gets kids moving with relays, obstacle courses, and agility exercises, with optional add-on themes like ninja, nerf skills, martial arts, or superhero.

West Loop
Online: powgymchicago.com

TOCA Players Indoor Sports Center
Tailor a birthday party package to different age groups so little ones aren’t overwhelmed and big kids escape boredom. Young kids stick to kickball and t-ball, while big kids play more competitive games like flag football or soccer.

Naperville
Online: playersindoor.com

Wicked Ball Bubble Soccer Arena
You won’t run out of things to do with packages that include bubble soccer, nerf wars, meltdown, zombie wars, archery, inflatable boxing, and so much more. They can also bring the party to you.

Lombard
Online: wickedballchicago.com

Windy City Fieldhouse
The choice is yours at this mega-complex where sports rule. Pick from scavenger hunts, basketball, soccer, kickball, capture the flag, batting cages, and more. Everything is customizable and you can hop from one sporting pursuit to the other. They also offer virtual scavenger hunts parties so friends and family from afar can participate.

Logan Square
Online: windycityfieldhouse.com

Best Indoor Birthday Spots in Chicago for the Music Makers

Merry Music Makers
This very popular music studio hosts parties too! Kids participate in a musical activity or craft before being led in a 30-minute customized sing-along by one of the many talented teachers. Afterward, it’s time for presents, food, and cake.

Lakeview
Online: merrymusicmakers.com

The Music Playhouse of Chicago
Children will be engaged in 45 minutes of musical fun. Perfect for kids ages 1-5, with singing, dancing, and instrument play. The Sing and Play Interactive Party comes to your home or another venue of choice.

Lakeview
Online: themusicplayhouseofchicago.com

Best Indoor Birthday Spots in Chicago for the Future Chefs

Nick’s Pizza and Pub
Nick’s Pizza and Pub offers the coziness of hosting at home, with none of the clean-up. Party guests get to visit the kitchen to make their own pizza and while that cooks, take a fun behind-the-scenes tour of the restaurant. Not only that, but their menu offers built-in fun with a scavenger hunt and we highly recommend the signature colossal cookie dessert.

Crystal Lake & Elgin
Online: nickspizzapub.com

Oui Chef
First up? Apron decorating! Once they’re properly dressed, birthday guests will make cupcakes, an entree of the guest of honor’s choice, lemonade, fresh fruit spritzer, and fruit salad. And, finally, they indulge in their creations!

Lincoln Park
Online: ouichefchicago.com

Schoolhouse Kitchen & Studio
Choose from among a donut shop party, a soft pretzel party, pasta & cupcake party, and more, or customize your own menu. More elaborate menus for adults & families are available at the Portage Park location. It’s delicious, hands-on fun, and the best part is. . . you get to sit back and enjoy!

Portage Park, River Forest, & Wicker Park (coming soon)
Online: iloveschoolhouse.com

Best Indoor Birthday Spots in Chicago for Gamers

Ignite Gaming
You can take the kid off the video game, but you may never get the video game out of the kid. Celebrate their day and their skills with all their friends. Over 150 multiplayer games available on reserved gaming stations, pizza and drinks, and a personal party host make this venue a no-brainer.

Skokie
Online: ignitegaming.com

Lucky Strike
Eat, Play, Bowl. Choose between reserved bowling lanes, arcade time, or a combination of both. Lots of games to choose from for all ages.

Lakeview & Streeterville
Online: luckystrikeent.com

Play and Spin
It would be hard not to have a good time here. In addition to the arcade, there is laser tag, VR games, go-karts, a rock wall, and inflatable obstacle courses.

Niles
Online: playandspin.com

Best Indoor Birthday Spots in Chicago for Something a Little Different

Archery Custom Shop
Learn a new skill and make like Robin Hood at an archery-themed party. Kids learn how to shoot the target safely in a one-hour workshop, followed by cake and birthday festivities. Everyone has a blast popping balloon targets.

Forest Park
Online: archerycustomshop.com

Aqua Mermaid
How often do you get to swim with mermaids? Party guests slip into mermaid/merman tails and learn how to swim like a mermaid while playing games and completing challenges. A truly magical birthday experience either in their pool or yours.

University of Illinois
Online: aquamermaid.com

Dad’s Slot Cars
This retro-cool spot has an old-fashioned soda counter where kids can sing Happy Birthday over decadent ice cream delights after they customize and race model cars on an 8-lane track.

Des Plaines
Online: facebook.com/Dadsslotcars/

Medieval Times
Give your little prince or princess a birthday that’ll make them feel like the star of the castle by adding a side of jousting. Celebrate the big day while watching 6 knights battle it out fast and furious on real horses and enjoy a feast fit for royalty.

Schaumburg
Online: medievaltimes.com

Snapology of Chicago

What kid doesn’t love Legos? Snapology parties include LEGO® themed birthday party builds, an activity surrounding the build, and a party facilitator who will set-up, conduct activities, and clean up all materials, whether the party is at your place or theirs.

Lakeview
Online: snapology.com

Spotlight on 3
Pamper your princess, fashion diva, or budding rockstar for their special day. They will be treated like royalty as they adorn luxurious robes and receive facials, mani/pedis, hand/shoulder massages, or funky hairdos. Customize your package to include karaoke, runway training, or a dance party.

Lakeview
Online: spotlighton3.com

Best Parties in Chicago that Come to You

GameTruck Chicago
Bring the arcade to you. State-of-the-art technology, 60+ games, and a total party atmosphere ensure a hassle-free celebration. Serving the Chicago area, including Chicago, Naperville, Wilmette, and Bloomingdale.

Online: gametruckparty.com

The Great Scott
Even parents will get a good chuckle when this magician begins his show by engaging the audience with hilarious jokes that are so great, you’ll wish you could trick him into staying longer. Virtual shows, that put the magic in your own hands, are also available.

Online: thegreatscott.com

Mad Science
Science is fun and these party people prove it. Making slippery slime, silly putty, and super balls are just some of experiments that guests can do—and take home. They offer add-ons like an awesome rocket launch, goody bags with science-themed toys, or the tastiest science project of all, cotton candy making.

Online: chicagowest.madscience.org

Miss Jamie
If your birthday star just can’t stop the music, a completely customizable party with Miss Jamie from the Farm is a must! She’s well-known for her original barnyard tunes and magical puppet friends that share the stage during her interactive sing-along, dance-along performance.

Online: miss-jamie.com

Smarty Pants
You’ll wish you were young enough to star in The Big Balloon Show hosted by Smarty Pants and his wife, Miss Dena. This ultimate performance art ends with a larger-than-life balloon creation made on the spot for the birthday star. We’re talking a giant airplane that stays inflated for an entire week.

Online: smartypantsworld.com

It’s never too early to have extra hands in the kitchen. From unloading the dishwasher to planning a family meal, getting kids involved in the kitchen is possible at nearly any age, as long as you use common sense, teach your children basic kitchen safety, and help them help themselves. Plus, it gives them a sense of independence and confidence along with a connection to their food that can help build lifelong healthy habits. Keep reading for all the kitchen tasks kids should master before they’re 10.

Kitchen Skills for Kids Ages 2 & Up

cutting fruit is a way to get kids involved in the kitchen
Kelly Sikkema via Unsplash

Clear their own plates. A two-year-old can easily grab their plate and bring it to the kitchen.

Unpack the groceries. When you set your grocery bags on the floor, expect eager toddlers to want to join in the fun. Especially if you have a shelf designated just for them.

Wash fruits and veggies. Step right up to the sink, toddlers and preschoolers; your fresh fruits and veggies need a quick bath before you dig in!

Mix the cookie/cake/bread batter. This is an easy way of getting kids involved in the kitchen, and it's also great sensory work! You can even give your toddler their own "bowl" and ingredients to mix.

Practice knife skills with a butter knife. Don't worry about chopping onions and peppers; let your little one practice early knife skills with a butter knife. They can slice things like butter, bananas and avocado. 

Kitchen Skills for Kids Ages 4 & Up

moms getting kids involved in the kitchen
iStock

Make a healthy snack. Simplify your after-school snack routine with a little help from your crew. Preschoolers and kindergartners can prep easy foods like toast, hard-boiled eggs, or fruits and veggies while they debrief about their day.

Tear veggies and herbs. Have the kids help you prep the basil for pasta, or shred lettuce for the salad!

Read a recipe. Put the “if you can read, you can cook” adage to the test with your beginning reader. Once your sidekick has the basics, let him read a favorite recipe while you two whip up a meal together.

Use measuring cups and spoons. Insert a covert lesson on fractions while cooking with your grade-schooler. Before you know it, she’ll be leading the math pack at school.

Load or unload the dishwasher. This easy task is one even four-year-olds can do, and not just because it’s right at their (ground) level. Pulling out silverware or dropping it in baskets will be their new helping-hand fave!

Help set the table. Placing napkins, flatware and cups on the table is a doable kitchen task for kids this age. You may need to get the dishes down for them, of course. 

 

Kitchen Skills for Kids Ages 6 & Up

getting kids involved in the kitchen
iStock

Grating cheese. Hand over the block and let them give it a go.

Peeling vegetables. Now hand them a peeler and let them have fun peeling potatoes, carrots, apples, and more. 

Prep skewers. From veggies to meat or even fruit, this is a fun task for your budding chef.

Use a stand mixer. Your grade-schooler can pour, sift and mix up his favorite batch of cookies using a stand mixer, without too much supervision, around this age. Waistlines, beware!

Kitchen Skills for Kids Ages 8 & Up

father daughter activities
iStock

Use a proper knife. The best thing since sliced bread is letting your kid do the slicing. Around second or third grade, move on from dull butter knives and teach your kids how to carefully cut up fruits, veggies, and more. 

Boil water. Teach your second or third grader this gateway kitchen skill and before you know it, she'll be cooking up pasta, hard-boiling an egg and steaming broccoli—scratch that—green beans while you prepare the main course!

Pack their own lunches. Grade-schoolers who've practiced slicing and dicing can make their own sandwiches, cut their own fruit and pack their own yogurts and snacks.

Plan a meal. Once they're ten, they can plan the family dinner and write out the grocery list too! Driving to the store…well, that’s up to you.

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SaveSave

SaveSave

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.

mother/daughter in kitchen

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.

—Jennifer Swartvagher

Featured photo: August de Richelieu from Pexels

Truth: Big time memories that stick around for a lifetime are made when littles spend time in the kitchen. Kids love getting in there and learning the tricks of the trade — it’s like one big science experiment for them. Why not arm them with skills that’ll take their helper skills to the next level during this quality family time? Read on for our picks for classes that help kids build confidence and learn to just roll with it in the kitchen.

photo: The Kids’ Table

The Kids’ Table
Parents can sign kids up for weekly classes, each exploring new tastes and techniques that involve the season’s favorite ingredients. From the Babies Can Cook series starting at 18 months to the Teens Can Cook programming that takes them to age 14, kids will start with gaining an appreciation for good food by first smelling, touching and tasting as babies and walk out as pre-adults who have the confidence to work independently in the kitchen.

The whole gang can get in on the meal-time action with Family Dinners. Your crew will have hands-fun learning a new recipe and sitting down to enjoy a delicious and meal created together.

Good to know: Everyone deserves a night out every once in a while, especially the munchkins! Kids Nite Out gives parents a little free time in the no-kid zone while the instructors at The Kids’ Table help your little ones make dinner and enjoy a post-food-coma activity like food-themed crafts, games or a movie. Kids have a day off school? Sign them up for a Day-Off Camp and they’ll stay busy cooking, eating and playing from 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

2337 W. North Ave., Wicker Park & 2864 N. Lincoln Ave., Lakeview. Online: kids-table.com

photo: Oui Chef

Oui Chef Chicago
Oui Chef’s owner, Laura Ragano, got her start teaching Pastry Chef wannabes at The French Pastry School in Chicago. She figured out a way to marry her professional life with her parenting life by creating a business that focuses on arming kids, ages 18 months to 18 years, with real culinary skills. Classes are broken into 2 groupings, one for 18 mos.-4 years and the other for ages 5 & up. The classes for the littlest chefs focus on teaching adults helpful methods to get kids interested in cooking time and teaching students about food and food preparation. Older kids participate in a 75-minute weekly class with a core topic that rotates every 10-15 weeks. For example, in the Tools of the Trade series, a specific tool will be demonstrated and a delicious recipe will be prepared. The goal is to teach proper use of kitchen equipment that will result in a better final product and a safer cooking environment . . . skills they can take into adulthood.

For those who can’t make recurring classes work in their schedule, there are one-off opportunities for ages 2-5 on Wednesdays (10:45 a.m.-11:45 a.m.). These one-hour classes explore various culinary preparations and skills that span from the sweet to the savory.

Good to know: Kids ages 5 and under participating in a class must be accompanied by an adult. Although they can’t guarantee that the ingredients used are prepared in nut-free facilities, Oui Chef is a nut-free environment and their core curriculum is also meat-free to ensure they are as inclusive as possible.

2622 N. Halsted St., Lincoln Park. Online: ouichefchicago.com

photo: Sur la Table, credit Josh Grenier via Flickr

Sur la Table
While Sur la Table definitely focuses on classes for the grownups, they give kids a fair shake at opportunities to wash-up and dig into the culinary scene.

Good to know: Whenever a big holiday rolls around, be sure to check their online calendar for classes. They’re almost always hosting something special for the kids that coordinates with the day, like cupcake making or gingerbread building.

Locations in Naperville, Old Orchard Mall, Northbrook Court & 900 N. Michigan. Online: surlatable.com

Chopping Block
Class details: This is another one that caters to the adults, but sneaks in a class or two for the littles every now and again. Surrounding holidays they offer themed activities, as well as summer camps to combat boredom.  Be sure to check their calendar for opportunities.

Good to know: Looking for a unique birthday party idea? Search no more! The Chopping Block will host your 2- to 2.5-hour gig for kids ages 6 to 16. During that block of time, your group will make a meal together while learning about ingredients, kitchen safety and organization.

The Merchandise Mart Plaza, Ste. 107, River North & 4747 N. Lincoln, Lincoln Square. Online: thechoppingblock.com

— Maria Chambers

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If your little kitchen helper is itching to take their skills to Top Chef level, now is the time to sign them up for some cooking classes! They’ll learn some skills that will impress their friends and you just might be able to turn over the dinner duties every once in a while. Chop, chop!

Tinker Kitchen

Tinker Kitchen

This Mission District cooking makerspace just opened and the cooking kids are thrilled. Founder Dan Mills, a former programmer, transitioned from hacking code to hacking food. Over the course of his own obsession with the science of cooking, he amassed an impressive collection of niche cooking equipment, including a pasta extruder and chocolate temperers. Dan outfitted Tinker Kitchen with industrial-grade ovens, burners and other staples. The space operates on a monthly membership model and members can stop in any time (except during special events) to roast cacao or flash-freeze ice cream with liquid nitrogen. Or grab a day pass and check out all the equipment before your commit. Check out the class schedule to see what's coming up! 

3233 22nd St.
San Francisco, CA
Onlinetinkerkitchen.org

Sprouts Cooking Club

A real culinary maven, the founder of Sprouts Cooking Club also started the first culinary club at U.C. Berkeley. She soon drew her attention to kids, founding Sprouts Cooking Club so children 7 and up could take classes after school or at your home for a cooking-themed birthday party. 

Various locations
San Francisco and the East Bay
Onlinesproutscookingclub.org

Dandelion Chocolate

Dandelion Chocolate

If your little chef has more of a sweet tooth than a savory one, then sign them up for the Chocolate Explorers class at Dandelion. Here they will learn all about how chocolate is made from the pod to the brownie. Little ones ages 3-6 and their adult can take a 45-minute Apprentices class that teaches about chocolate through reading the book Sweet Coco and tasting, of course! Dandelion also offers parent-child classes where kids ages 7-12 and their adult make their own single-origin dark chocolate from scratch. Read all about it here.

740 Valencia St.
San Francisco, CA
Onlinedandelionchocolate.com

Culinary Institute of America at Copia

CIA at Copia

CIA at Copia offers Family Fundays most Sundays with weekly cooking classes the entire gang can enjoy together. Go to the front of the class with Sunday Lasagna, DIY Dim Sum or the holiday favorite Spooky Treats. These interactive, demonstration-style classes are perfect all ages and are comprised of family-friendly cooking techniques, all while building a recipe box for your own kitchen, and encourage your culinary dreamers to keep building that love of food.

500 1st Street
Napa, CA
707-967-2530
Online: ciaatcopia.com

Jordan's Kitchen

Organic, locally-sourced ingredients are just the beginning with Jordan’s Kitchen. Junior chefs will start by learning knife skills and kitchen safety. Then the lesson goes on to teach skills like frosting a cake or pressing hand-made tortillas. Each class ends with the best part—eating the masterpiece!

413 10th Street
San Francisco, CA
415-872-9160
Onlinejordanskitchensf.com

Hidden Villa

This organic farm located in the foothills of the Santa Cruz mountains provides hands-on education for kids of all ages. Their ever-popular Cow Wow classes (with pre-registration required as they always sell out) allow youngsters to milk a cow and see how milk is filtered for bottling. Or, make mozzarella cheese and use it with some edible flowers and greens from the farm garden in their pizza-making class.

Hidden Villa
26870 Moody Rd.
Los Altos Hills, CA
Onlinehiddenvilla.org

Kids Cooking for Life

Empowerment is a big part of learning how to cook, and the mission at this cooking school is to promote self esteem and healthier lifestyles, and reversing the epidemic of diabetes and childhood obesity. Classes cover lessons on cooking, nutrition, safety and culture.

After school classes are offered through the San Anselmo and Strawberry Recreation Centers
Online: kidscookingforlife.org

Junior Chef Stars

Everything from camps to birthday parties to classes are offered at this cooking academy for the small set. In addition to honing in on the creative spirit of cooking, Junior Chef Stars teaches little ones as young as 3 about safety, “kitchen cooties” and organizing their own culinary toolbox.

Various locations
Onlinejuniorchefstars.com

Cavallo Point

The cooking school is housed within the picturesque Cavallo Point resort and lodge, and emphasizes local, seasonal ingredients and is led by well-known chefs, local producers and vintners. The family cooking classes get the whole clan together to chop, bake and, ultimately, eat, giving new meaning to the family meal.

601 Murray Cir.
Sausalito, CA
415-339-4700
Onlinecavallopoint.com

The Culinary Dude

The Culinary Dude blends Early Childhood Education with Culinary Arts. There’s no question that a lot of learning goes on here, but with a big serving of fun. Private classes on everything from healthy snacks to recreating the favorite foods of popular pop stars are on offer. They even host toddler classes and a parent-vs.-kid Iron Chef competition.

Various locations
Bay Area
971-30-DUDES (38337)
Onlineculinarydudeontour.com

Y.U.M Chefs

Y.U.M stands for Young Urban Modern and offers cooking programs for children and adults alike. Led by chef and cookbook author Leah Brooks, classes range from everyday approachable recipes to composing a full brunch feast with ingredients straight from the farmer's market.

Located inside Katherine Michiels School
1335 Guerrero Blvd.
San Francisco, CA
415-824-5123
Onlineyumchefssf.org

Culinary Artistas

Culinary Artistas

Located in Ghirardelli Square, this cooking school has classes for kids as young as 2 all the way up to 11. Here they learn about different culinary traditions while they make food to eat at the end of class. School break classes are offered as well as single-day options.

900 North Point Street, Suite H-108 B
San Francisco, CA
Onlineculinaryartistas.com

Cucina Bambini

Cucina Bambini

With two locations in Los Gatos and Willow Glen, kids have tons of opportunities to beef up their cooking skills at Cucina Bambini. Teens can learn how to make pasta while little ones bake cakes or make apple crumble with ice cream in a bag. Host your next birthday party here and your kitchen will remain spick and span!

1040 Lincoln Ave.
San Jose, CA

22 S. Santa Cruz Ave.
Los Gatos, CA
Onlinecucinabambini.com

Williams-Sonoma

iStock

Did you know that your neighborhood Williams-Sonoma store offers Junior Chef classes for kids 8-13? From American Girl-themed events to seasonal cookie decorating, these are a great and inexpensive way to get your school-aged kids interested in cooking. 

Various location, see your local store for upcoming Junior Chef events
Online: williams-sonoma.com

Bliss Belly Kitchen

iStock

Kids will love Chef Neelam's focus on health-conscious, eco-conscious and soul-conscious cooking. Bliss Belly Kitchen uses locally-sourced, organic, farm fresh ingredients to teach children about the fundamentals of healthy cooking. Participants learn to source, cook and appreciate delicious recipes.

Serving Berkeley, Oakland, San Francisco, and Marin
Online: blissbellykitchen.com

Spun Sugar

If your little chef is more inspired by sweet than savory, this is the spot for you. Kids 6-12 can attend Sweetie Camp during school breaks, or try your hand at seasonal treats at the gingerbread class this December. 

Berkeley, CA
Online: spunsugar.com

—Kate Loweth, Mireille Schwartz and Erin Feher

 

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If your little ones enjoy helping out in the kitchen, there are plenty of cooking classes that will encourage their inner chef. Some focus on kitchen safety and the importance of eating local. Others explore different cultures and international cuisines. The trick is finding the right program for your little Batali-in-the-making. From cupcake workshops to Saturday brunch meetups to weekly dinner clubs, these hands-on cooking courses teach your kids how to make tasty dishes at home — with, of course, a little bit of help from mom and dad.

                                                                                        photo: Freshmade NYC via Yelp

Freshmade NYC
Enroll your budding chef in one of the many classes offered at this cooking studio at Broadway and Bleecker. Check out its schedule for pop-up themed classes, including Taco Night and a Make Your Own Sushi demonstration. Freshmade NYC also holds semester courses for kids as young as 20 months. The studio’s signature Brunch ‘N’ Munch series teaches toddlers how to prepare healthy brunch foods like smoothies and pancakes. Older chefs ages 4 to 7 can participate in the Kids Dinner Club creating seasonal meals. Want to sample a class before committing to a full semester? The studio offers a one-time drop-in pass that you can purchase online.

Freshmade NYC
636 Broadway #516
NoHo
212-475-0500
Online: freshmadenyc.com

                                                                                                       photo: Didriks via Flickr

Young Chefs Academy
Does your little sous chef want to “help” whenever you are in the kitchen? Sharpen his or her skills at Queens-based Young Chefs Academy’s Camp Can-I-Cook. The program features a three-hour lesson for three, four or five consecutive days, with themes varying according to the current season. A winter session might focus on hearty old-world Italian dishes, while a week during the summer could revolve around cool treats to beat the heat. The Academy also offers a KinderCooks program for tots ages three to five. The lessons are designed around age-appropriate themes, such as shapes, numbers and colors. Classes are limited to 15 kids and are conducted by one teacher and an assistant. Depending how often you attend, you might want to consider purchasing the Chefs Club Membership, which offers discounts on classes, birthday parties and YCA merchandise as well as exclusive access to member-only events.

Young Chefs Academy
108-10 72nd Ave.
Forest Hills
718-268-0343
Online: youngchefsacademy.com

                                                                       photo: Chef Toni’s Cooking Adventures via Yelp

Chef Toni’s Cooking Adventures
Chef Antoinette Willard is a mother of four. She’s also the culinary mastermind behind Chef Toni’s and an advocate of the local food movement. Her classes highlight the importance of using fresh ingredients and knowing where the food on your plate comes from. Cooking Adventures, a popular course offered on weekday afternoons, teaches the values behind and the techniques to prepare farm-to-table cuisine. On select Saturdays, Chef Toni also holds a Cook & Play seminar for kids ages 5-13. Live downtown and don’t want to trek to the Upper West Side? You’re in luck. Chef Toni partners with other venues to offer classes in Battery Park City and Tribeca.

Chef Toni’s Cooking Adventures
967 Columbus Ave., B1
Upper West Side
646-682-7769
Online: cheftoniscookingadventures.com

                                                                photo: The Art Farm in the City via Instagram

The Art Farm in the City
Do the little ones look forward to trips to the farmer’s market? They’ll love learning how to make dishes from local ingredients in The Farm’s Foodies Cooking Class. Offered for kids ages two to eight, your little ones will get a chance to cook with fresh ingredients and participate in a sensory adventure. A typical lesson includes smelling local herbs and spices, peeling rhubarb and tasting new fresh fruits and veggies. Each semester, the instructor designs a seasonal organic menu from around the globe. Carmelized Apple Galette, Carrot Cheez-Its and Spring Berry Focaccia are just some of the dishes kids will learn how to cook during the 11 week session. You can also drop in to sample the class for a $40 fee.

The Art Farm in the City
419 E. 91st  St.
Upper East Side
212-410-3117
Onine: theartfarms.org

                                                                                   photo: Taste Buds Kitchen via Yelp

Taste Buds Kitchen
This Chelsea kitchen caters to everyone in the family. Your two-year-old will love the school’s cupcake workshops while your six-year-old will get a kick out of solving mysteries in the Cooking Science class. If you’re in need of a date night, the kitchen transforms into a BYOB evening cooking school. We highly recommend the New York Pizza course if you want a laid back outing away from the kids. If you want to bring the whole brood, there will be a Mother’s Day Tea Party this May, at which little ones will make blueberry scones drenched in a perky lemon glaze just for Mom. Tea party attire is encouraged so don’t forget to wear a hat and your best party dress.

Taste Buds Kitchen
109 W 27th St.
Chelsea
212-242-2248
Online: tastebudskitchen.com

photo: Butter Beans Kitchen

Butter Beans Kitchen
The brainchild of local moms, Butter Beans Kitchen is a program that provides healthy lunches for schools throughout the city. It also offers events and camps at Manhattan and Brooklyn locations that pass on the wisdom of eating and preparing delicious, local, and nutritious food. During spring camp  (April 6-10), students ages five to 11 shop for seasonal produce at the Union Square Greenmarket, bake with Krumville Bake Shop, plant seeds in the classroom and more. Food & Garden summer camp — also for kids ages five to 11 — fills the day exploring farmer’s markets, creating jams, cheeses and breads, and learning about composting, urban farming, foraging and beyond. Butter Beans will also be hosting family events on topics ranging from foraging in Prospect Park to making quesadillas and salsa in April and May. (See events calendar for details and registration.)

Butter Beans Kitchen
Various locations in Manhattan and Brooklyn
718-499-0010
Online: butterbeanskitchen.com

 

photo: NY Kids Club via Instagram

NY Kids Club
The play center hosts weekly classes at many of its locations in Queens, Brooklyn and Manhattan. Parents are encouraged to stay and watch the Cooking Juniors Class as their kids learn skills like mixing, stirring and whisking. The Club also offers independent participation courses, with classes appropriate to various age levels. Each lesson covers international cultures and unique cuisines found around the globe. Check in with your nearest NY Kids Club to find out which classes are currently available.

NY Kids Club
11 locations in Queens, Manhattan and Brooklyn
Online: nykidsclub.com

photo: Didriks via Flickr

Allergic to Salad
Do you have a picky eater on your hands? This blog-turned-cooking school will get your kid excited about helping out in the kitchen and trying new foods. Among the many unique and memorable classes featured on the calendar this spring is an Edible Toys from the Kitchen seminar. Kids ages three to eight can learn how to make everything from lava lamps to sidewalk chalk out of cooking staples found in your kitchen cabinet. The hands-on classes have only two rules: you have to try everything and you don’t have to like it. Check Allergic to Salad’s calendar to find out about upcoming events near you.

Allergic to Salad
Various locations in NYC
Online: allergictosalad.com

What cooking classes have your kids enjoyed? Tell us about them in the comments!

–Michelle McIvor Cohen

Atlanta’s after-school scene is so overwhelming it can make us parents really mourn the nap. Rest assured that we did that from ballet lunch bunches to crafty camps, we scoured the city for the top tot programs. If they have already said sayonara to their siesta, read on for a primer in afternoon activities perfect for your wee one.

2 Crafty Chicks Art Classes
Two crafty chicks (with creative arts backgrounds) teamed up to share their love of art with kids with Mommy and Me classes, teen programs and after-school drawing and art classes for kids ages 5 on up. Kids head to their Decatur location to get hands-on with colorful paper, cloth, glue, pencils, paint and more to create masterpieces that are always fridge-worthy.

Details: 1549 Clairmont Road Unit 105 Decatur, 404-216-5574

Atlanta Ballet Dance Classes
Get your kids feet moving with the pros at the Atlanta Ballet. Choose from a variety of classes from Mommy and Me and Creative Moment. Classes are available for kids as young as 3 on up to 7-years to help combine body movement and music. Even the most uncoordinated kids with little rhythm or flexibility can enjoy  getting into the music once a week for 45-minutes. Kids with a dramatic flair can ditch the tutus and take their Tap, Twist and Twirl classes at the Cobb Centre for rocking rhythms. Locations very but usually take place at the Cobb Centre, Michael C. Carlos Dance Centre in West Midtown, Buckhead Centre and Powers Ferry Center.

Details: 404-873-5811 x100

Atlanta Gymnastics Center
Boys and girls somersault their way through a fun afternoon with the Atlanta Gymnastics Center. Open to babies as young as 14-months on up through teenagers, there are plenty of options for young kids and grade-schoolers. Preschoolers learn body awareness balance and coordination along with a boost of self-confidence. Progressive classes serve kids ages 5 1/2 on up through 7-years to learn Olympic parallel bars, pommel horse, high bar and floor exercises. Watch your kids bounce off trampolines to help learn spatial awareness and burn off energy before dinner.

Details: 2617 Talley St, Decatur, 404-687-9911

Atlanta Workshop Players
Quit telling your kids they’re being too dramatic and let them put it to good use. Kids with the acting bug can join the Atlanta Workshop Players for acting, audition techniques and video and theater production classes. Current sessions are available for 7-years on up to explore improv, musical theatre and TV and film acting. Kids join seasoned theater and TV veterans to play theatre games, learn the art of improv, get an on-camera experience and learn more about character development.

Details: 8560 Holcomb Bridge Road, Suite 111, Alpharetta, 770-998-8111 

Bricks 4 Kidz
Don’t worry if your kids won’t quit playing with LEGOS. Send them to Brick 4 Kidz to develop teamwork, creativity and problem solving. Class themes range from robotics, space, construction, natural disasters and more all crafted through toy bricks and some strategic guidance from teachers. Classes take place in schools and recreational centers around the northern area of Atlanta including Tritt Elementary, Heards Ferry, and East Roswell.

Details: 770-680-2455

Emory Community Swim Lessons
Dive into after school fun with Emory Community Swim. Their young Starfish class teach kids as young as 2 1/2 to learn how to swim or get more comfortable in the water. Lessons focus on getting faces in the water, back floating, kicking, swim techniques and water safety. Tadpole classes teach advanced beginners ages 3 to 8 how to freestyle and backstroke while working on breathing and kicking strength. Classes are held at the Emory University Clairmont Campus and Main Campus.

Details: 404-727-4081 or 404-727-2617

Engineering for Kids
Got a budding engineer in the family? Engineering for Kids hosts classes for kids as young as 4-years-old. Kids ages 7 to 14-years can indulge in a guilty pleasure and learn video game design while 4-year olds try out Jr. Civil Engineering classes among other fun programs. Kids get hands-on experience with science, technology, engineering and math. Classes are held through the area in Atlanta, Alpharetta, Roswell, Marietta and Kennesaw.

Details: 770-648-5437

Midtown Athletic Club Tennis
Midtown Tennis Center proclaims the sport as the most social in the world, making it a perfect after school activity for kids who want to play with their friends. Junior Development classes serve kids ages 3 to 18 and has been recognized by the United States Tennis Association. Preschoolers hit the court to learn the foundation of the sport with motor skill development and coordination focus. Four and five year-olds learn more about balance through tennis games while ages 6 to 8 graduate from their class having a command of serving and positioning for the sport.

Details: 135 Interstate N Pkwy SE, 770-953-1100

The Music Class
Infants up to 8-year olds tap their feet to the beat with The Music Class. Kids who are 5-year on up through 8, can sing in tune and keep a beat jam with the “Sound Habits” keyboard classes. For kids not quite ready to start singing and playing music on demand, MusiCanopy gives parents and kids a chance to interact musically and learn more about the fundamentals. Locations are available throughout the Atlanta metro area including Buckhead, Toco Hills and Kirkwood.

Details: 770-645-5578

Young Chefs Academy
Take weekly classes with Young Chefs Academy to learn cooking basics, kitchen safety and proper food handling. KinderCooks introduces 3 to 5-year-olds about recipes, nutrition, age-appropriate culinary skills and movement. Jr. Chefs ages 5 through 14-years sink their teeth into culinary creativity and techniques to learn to love cooking. Who knows? Maybe you can even get your kids to make dinner once in awhile and give you the night off. Classes are held in North Druid Hills, Sandy Springs and Marietta-Ackworth.

Details: 254-751-1040

What after school fun with your family enjoy this year? Share with us in the comments section below!

—Susan Finch

Photos courtesy of Atlanta Gymnastics Center, The Music Class, Young Chef’s Academy, tk on Creative Commons via Flickr, 2 Crafty Chicks, Atlanta Ballet, Bricks 4 Kidz, Atlanta Workshop Players, and Engineering for Kids via Facebook

 

We’re all about getting our kids in the kitchen—appreciating real ingredients, broadening their palates, building math skills, and observing chemistry in action—so sending them to camp to learn how to cook for a week sounds like a super idea…until you find out how much it costs (think $200 to $300 per week plus a supply fee). Before you toss out the idea altogether, why not band together with a group of friends to organize a DIY cooking camp? It’ll be easier on your pocket and you’ll have a say in what to cook and how to run it! Your very own DIY cooking camp is especially suited for kids with allergies and special dietary needs.

Don’t know where to start? Here are some tips and ideas.

Planning

1. Gather a group of three or four parent-and-kid pairs (or even visiting grandmas!) to take turns hosting the kids in your home kitchens over one week or two.

2. Come up with a schedule and try to stick to it every day (say, 9:00 am to 12:00 pm).

3. Design a menu of meals that is simple and fun to prepare, and, of course, tasty for the kids. Mix it up with a combination of baking, stove-cooking, grilling, and no-cook dishes and pick a fun theme like “Global Kitchens” or “Picnic Time!”

4. Develop a recipe template that all the moms can use to type up their recipes.

5. To make the experience feel like a real camp, include supplies and gear for each child:

    • Aprons and/or toques (buy online or try your local art supply store). On day one, the kids can decorate them with fabric markers and gels.
    • A binder to hold the printed recipes.
    • A wooden spoon and plastic cutting mat.

The Menu

1. While one of the goals of cooking camp should be to encourage kids to explore new flavors, try and make dishes that kids are somewhat familiar with and would enjoy eating.

2. The plan is to keep the kids busy for a few hours so include a main course, side dish, and dessert for every lesson.

Ideas for mains include: mini pizzas, vegetable and meat kebabs, quesadillas, sushi, quiche, peanut noodle salad; side dishes: spring rolls, guacamole, arancini (rice balls), potato salad; and dessert: blackberry hand pies, watermelon granita, brownies, and berry and yogurt parfaits.

3. Come up with the menu together as a group to avoid duplication and divide up the shopping list. This way, you can save time and money by buying in bulk.

The “Curriculum”

1. Include a visit to a nearby farmers market, if possible, so the kids can meet the people who produce their food, be they farmers, cheesemakers, or beekeepers. They can also pick and choose the ingredients.

2. If you have a vegtable or herb garden, have the kids harvest some ingredients. There’s nothing like pulling a carrot out from the ground, soil clinging to its roots!

3. Plan dishes with steps that are fun for kids, especially hands-on (literally!) ones like rolling dough, skewering kebabs, cracking eggs, and cranking a pasta maker.

4. Teach different techniques like slicing vs. dicing, boiling, grilling, using a weighing scale, blender or food processor, as well as measuring (cups vs. ounces).

5. Explain processes and techniques as you go, and talk about the various ingredients that go into the dish.

6. Part of cooking with kids is teaching them kitchen safety. Here are some basics:

  • Always wash your hands before handling food.
  • Keep a safe distance from a hot stovetop and oven.
  • Turn pot and pan handles inward toward the back of the stove to prevent accidents.
  • Don’t sample raw eggs or meat.
  • Let the kids practice cutting with a butter knife or a salad knife until they (and you!) are comfortable with a real knife.

Other Tips

1. Give the kids equal turns with gadgets, mixing, measuring, etc.

2. Don’t forget to give them a snack and play-break to re-energize.

3. Set aside a workspace—an island or a kitchen table—and have all the kids do the same thing whether standing on stools or sitting down.

4. Quiz them on what they’ve learned every now and then to keep them engaged and attentive.

5. Embrace the chaos and have fun!

Do you have tips for cooking with kids as a group or one-on-one? Please share!

— Pat Tanumihardja

Photos courtesy of Justycinmd, Carol DuncanRachel Tayse, and Coqui The Chef via Flickr.com