Sports

Top Family-Friendly Spots on NYC’s Upper East Side

Submitted by Jessica Laird on Tue, 10/08/2019 - 10:00am

Featuring New York's most iconic park, world-renowned museums, some of the city's most unique play spots, and eateries for all, the Upper East Side has easily earned its spot as a family favorite. Watch Avery, a Kids Access Press student reporter, take us on an action-packed video tour of the fun-filled neighborhood. Then read on below for more details about some of the area's best spots for kids.

Thanks to our sponsor 180 E 88th St for making this video possible. 180 E 88th is a luxury building in the heart of everything that makes NYC’s Upper East Side a perfect fit for families. Take a peek at the stunning full- and half-floor residences, complete with 14’+ ceilings and sweeping views of Central Park, plus the 8 floors of amenities, including a wine room, game room, indoor basketball court and soccer pitch, and a playroom conceptualized by the Children's Museum of the Arts.

Boston Kids' Sports Classes That Focus on Fun and Boost Athletic Skills

Submitted by Clementina Verge on Tue, 09/17/2019 - 10:20am

The benefits of playing sports are plenty: Kids get exercise, distance from screens, an appreciation for teamwork, and new pals to play with. Luckily, the Boston area offers many athletic teams and classes that develop kids' skills while making sure they have fun, too. From traditional team sports like soccer and baseball to individual pursuits such as skating, swimming, and karate, these athletic programs in Boston and surrounding Massachusetts towns might just spark a lifelong passion. For more enrichment programs, look at our Boston Classes and Activities Guide.

Horseback Riding in NYC: Lessons and Rides for Kids

Submitted by Sonia Gonzalez on Tue, 09/10/2019 - 4:00pm

Horseback riding in New York City? You bet! While your NYC apartment probably won't accommodate a pet pony, you can indulge your child’s love of horses without leaving town. There are several options for family-friendly horseback riding and grooming lessons, plus drop-in trail riding experiences for a unique way to experience the great outdoors in NYC.

Sadly, Claremont Riding Academy, the last remaining horse stable in Manhattan, closed in 2007 so there's no longer horseback riding in Central Park. However, there are stables in the other four boroughs that allow families to make like it's the Wild West.

Free and Cheap After-School Programs for NYC Kids and Teens

Submitted by Jody Mercier on Tue, 09/03/2019 - 1:00pm

Tis the season for after-school program enrollment. Families looking for reasonably priced enriching and fun programs for their children have tons of sports, arts, academics, and other kinds of classes to choose from. In fact, a handful of high-quality after-school programs are actually free or super inexpensive!

Some places, like the New York City Parks Department, offer after-school coverage Monday through Friday. Other programs like those found at the Children’s Museum of Art (CMA) only meet once or twice a week. We've rounded up organizations that offer complimentary or reasonably priced classes to kids, tweens and teens throughout the five boroughs. Lots of the programs on this list have multiple enrollment periods per year. Check in with Mommy Poppins regularly to stay on top of enrollment options during the fall, winter, and spring.

Go Fish: Where to Go Fishing with NYC Kids for Free (Even If You Don't Have Gear)

Submitted by Stephanie Ogozalek on Mon, 08/19/2019 - 12:00pm

Fishing is a classic family activity, but it can only be done outside of NYC, right? Wrong. My husband and I have been fishing with our 9-year-old son in the five boroughs since he was a preschooler. It's relaxing and a great way to bond, plus it teaches patience (you definitely need it for this sport).

Not only does NYC offer different kinds of fishing experiences (freshwater, salt water, catch-and-release), there are organizations that even supply the rod, reel, tackle and bait so all you need to bring is a good attitude. Our rivers, lakes, ponds and beaches are truly teeming with fish, and we've got the scoop on where you and your kids can catch them.

Dance Classes Where LA Kids Learn Ballet, Jazz, Hip Hop, or Ballroom

Submitted by Martha Hall on Thu, 08/15/2019 - 8:32pm

Want a dance class for your kid? You live in the right city. Whether you want your kid to learn to be just a little more coordinated, or you dream of the "World of Dance" competition track, Los Angeles has incredible recreational and professional training for your tiny dancer. Get your ballet shoes on and "chasse" through these dance studio options.

Find more great class ideas in our Los Angeles Classes and Enrichment Guide.

Swim Lessons and Classes for New Jersey Kids

Submitted by Jaime Wisz on Thu, 08/15/2019 - 12:00pm

Looking for a way to introduce your child to the pool? Parent-child swim classes are a great way to help kids develop a love of swimming and instill confidence around the water. These programs teach water skills in a safe and age-appropriate way, and most allow children as young as 6 months to participate. Once your little one gets the hang of it, you can take the family to the pool, beach, or water park with confidence. And most programs continue to offer lessons for kids up to age 12 and beyond.

For more kids' classes, be sure to check out our Guide to Classes and Enrichment Programs.

Fishing on Long Island: Where Kids and Families Can Drop a Line

Submitted by Jaime Sumersille on Sun, 08/11/2019 - 11:30am

Fishing is a fun outdoor family activity with deep roots in Long Island's maritime history and culture. Surrounded by the sea, kids on Long Island can drop a line at a number of waterfront communities, beaches, local piers, boats, and parks. We've rounded up a few of our favorite family-friendly fishing venues, where kids can test your skills and perhaps hook the catch of the day.

Looking for more summer seaside enjoyment? Make sure to visit these stunning Long Island lighthouses or Long Island boardwalks ideal for a family stroll.