The Ultimate Guide to Afterschool
Programs & Activities
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The Many Benefits of Afterschool Programs
By Serena norr
According to the Afterschool Alliance, kids spend more than 1,200 hours in school every year. While that may seem like a substantial amount of time, school only accounts for 20% of a child’s time. This is why after-school programs and activities are a big part of our kids’ school experience. Programs and activities are essential in fostering social and emotional growth, just as important as academic reasons. For busy parents, particularly those juggling work commitments (#iykyk), these programs provide a space where children can thrive safely and productively, extending the learning and joy beyond the regular school hours.
Read on to discover more about why after-school programs are so beneficial to kids and their families.
Meet New Friends
After-school classes allow kids to connect and meet new people outside of school. Extracurricular activities help form a community and forge a sense of belonging as they hyper-focus on one activity. This can also benefit students who struggle with making friends in school, where they can connect with a different set of peers in smaller groups.
Encourages Physical Activity
After-school activities, like sports, encourage kids to participate in teamwork as well as offer physical activity, help with stress, may improve self-esteem, foster healthy habits, and may promote mental well-being. Kids who participate in sports may also forge longterm bonds that they participate in until the end of high school.
Expose Kids to New Programs
Many schools have limited programming within music and the arts. After-school programming allows kids to try these
programs and express themselves in a new way through acting, music, and/or learning a new artistic skill. They can also help unleash creativity, improve communication, boost confidence, and improve focus and concentration.
Programs are Fun
After-school activities are fun and offer a way for kids to do something exciting and engaging beyond their typical school day. This can be a release for students with a rigorous and intense course load and schedule.
Helps Support Working Parents
Here in New York, we have some of the best after-school programs in the country. Participating in an after-school program allows kids to thrive in a safe and supervised environment until a parent or guardian can pick them up.
Provides a Safe and Supportive Environment
After-school programs provide a safe space during times when some kids might be unsupervised. Under an instructor’s guidance, kids develop new skills and learn from a mentor/teacher who can help kids foster new passions/interests. According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, “regular participation in an after-school program may also reduce risky behaviors and help kids gain college and career-needed skills.”
Academic Benefits
A supportive after-school program provides a well-rounded educational experience that can impact other aspects of school, such as improved concentration, reduced behavioral problems, and fostering new passions, helping lift kids’ moods and well-being.
Finding an Afterschool Activity for Your Child
By Stacey eBert
As a kid, I loved after-school extracurricular classes. Whether summer camp, gymnastics, or high school clubs –regardless of the time of year- I embraced the energy that came with all activities. As a young adult, I led youth groups, ran after-school classes at the local community center, and taught many kids to swim. I felt lucky to have teachers and counselors who chose to share their time, energy, expertise, and talents.
As the kids return to school, it’s time to ensure those young minds have extracurricular classes, activities, or sports to engage, foster, and energize their spirits. Parents should know something exists for all kids – it might take time, effort, trial and error, thinking outside the box, recruiting experts, and listening to your child’s voice. It might mean investments in energy, money, community, and heart. However long it takes to find the thing that lights them up – it’s worth it.
Here are four tips to help find an engaging extracurricular class or activity for your child.
Listen actively to the kind of activity , class your child needs Kids have a way of sharing their thoughts. Young children might not have the words yet, but they know how they feel. Those with the words might not have the meaning flushed out, and some kids may be shy and might need coaxing to try something new. Listen to what seems to interest them and provide options, give them the tools to research, keep an open line of communication, remind them they’ve got a support system, encourage giving it a try, and help them see that the nervous excitement of expanding that comfort zone is worth both the risk and joy.
Know what sorts of classes, sports your child gravitates towards There is something for everyone in New
York – offering many enriching activities encompassing diverse arts, including painting, sculpting, dancing, drawing, poetry, writing, music, theater, and more. Engaging in the arts fosters talent and expands your child’s understanding of the world, nurturing a heightened sense of selfawareness. For those passionate about sports, tailor-made winter classes are available after school or on weekends, providing the ideal outlet for children to expend their boundless energy.
Don’t overextend your child’s extracurricular schedule
Parent tip: If you’re overextended, your child is overscheduled, or your child (or you!) is about to experience sensory overload, then less is more. One meaningful activity is more than enough.
If one day a week or a few hours each is sufficient, it will work for your child and, most importantly, the family.
There is an activity, class, or sport out there for every child
In families with more than one kid, you may
run around and do different activities for your children, as only all of your kids will want to do the same sport or class.
So, lead them to what they will thrive in or take a mild interest and turn it into a fullon hobby.
For example, If your child has an ear for languages, steer them towards an international culture or language club. If they’re pulled towards teams, leadership, and exercise, see what types of sports or club teams are out there for them. If they crave connection and want to learn creative pursuits, consider opening their world towards what’s possible in arts, community service, or learning something new. They want to practice swimming midwinter, there’s a club for that. They want to learn chess and build their interpersonal skills simultaneously; there’s a class for that. They want to learn marketing, debate, and business skills – there’s an organization for that. They want to learn survival skills and embrace the goals of scouts and leadership; there’s a space for that.
Give them a safe, non-judgemental space to share their interests and thrive.
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How Do I Know If My Kid Is Ready for Sports?
By Marina DunBar
One of the best things about the backto-school season is that it’s also the back-to-extracurricular activities season! That means arts, clubs, and athletics are in full swing to ease the pressure of academics. And with this year’s unforgettable Summer Olympics, there has no doubt been a surge in aspiring young athletes going for the gold.
But how do you know when your child is ready for a sport? And how do you know what sport is ready for them? We’ve assembled a guide to help parents understand what sports best fit their kid, so that your little future Olympian will remember to credit you for their early start.
Ages 2 to 5
Walking is the first real sport that babies learn. Once that fundamental skill is developed, the more complex motor functions start to kick in. Not only is a love of exploration and discovery cultivated during this time, but so is muscle memory, a critical part of all athletics. Kids at this age should be encouraged to participate in activities that help progress the development of this crucial function.
Sports that facilitate freedom in play but also incentivize children to learn repetitive movements are ideal for inspiring early athletes. Some examples of early childhood sports are:
• Racing, including simple obstacle courses and mazes
• Jumping rope
• Dancing
• Basic gymnastics
• Throwing and catching a ball
• Swimming
• Hopscotch
• Riding a bicycle or tricycle
These are all activities that help children understand (both in mind and body) that repeating a movement over and over again is how it becomes easier to perform. And while it’s too
Ages 6 to 10
Once the fundamentals of muscle memory are acquired, it’s time to focus on balance, hand-eye coordination, and attention span. Parents can begin introducing sports with easy rules and basic gameplay strategy. When a child learns how to follow instructions, it’s a sign they’re ready for more complicated and collaborative sports such as:
• Baseball, softball
• Soccer
• Dance teams
• Martial arts
• Lap Swimming
• Roller skating and ice skating
These are all sports that build upon the foundation that is learned during the earlier childhood activities. Pay close attention to what sort of environment your child likes to be (Indoors or outdoors? In water or on grass?) and help them push themselves to learn that environment even more.
Ages 7-10 and Up
It’s junior sports league time! This is around the age your child will develop a stronger sense of teamwork, strategy, and sportsmanship. Of course, this also means a stronger drive towards competition. Cultivating a healthy sense of competitiveness is important in children of this age group, but it can be a tricky balancing act. You want your kid to want to win, but you also want them to be able to lose graciously.
A helpful way to encourage healthy
competition is to avoid always framing the conversation around winning and losing. Instead, remind your child that they’re playing because it’s fun and it’s healthy, and it’s still both of those things regardless of which side gets more points. Here are some friendly competitive sports:
• Football
• Basketball
• Volleyball
• Tennis
• Hockey
• Soccer
• Golf
• Competitive Swimming
If your child still insists that winning is everything, remind them that every athlete who loves their sport deserves to win sometimes, and that means that you have to lose sometimes. After all, it’s not really a competition if you win every time, is it?
The Right Fit
With so many sports to choose from, it can seem overwhelming to try picking the best fit for your child. But that’s why it’s so important to pay attention during those early motor skill stages. Understanding the environment your child prefers as well as where their natural talents lie will give you a great idea of what activities they will enjoy and thrive in.
Do they constantly try balancing on the edge of the sidewalk? Try gymnastics and the balance beam. Do they like to make-believe they’re a superhero? Try martial arts. Do they love dancing around the living room with you? Encourage them to memorize a routine. The more they try, the more they discover what they love.
early for team sports, having your child practice these activities in groups can help them get comfortable learning alongside their peers.
How Music Saved My Son’s Life
By Jeannine Cintron
I’ll never forget the feeling of seeing my son perform on stage for the very first time. He was 13 and had recently taken up the guitar, playing for just a few short months. His music school often held their shows at the Stone Pony, a New Jersey venue made famous by The Boss himself, Bruce Springsteen. It was a far cry from the elementary school auditorium performances many parents are used to, and I prayed he wasn’t going to let his nerves get to him. He’s normally very shy and introverted, and I worried he was going to do whatever it took to blend into the background. So, as the lights dimmed, I held my breath, grabbed my phone and started recording.
Then, to my utmost surprise, the show kicked off with a guitar solo by my son. The spotlight was squarely on him as he perfectly strummed the opening notes to Everlong by the Foo Fighters on the electric guitar he had received as a birthday gift not long ago. The fact that he chose to play one of my favorite songs was not a coincidence, either.
I was beaming. You could practically hear me smiling. There is really no accurate way to describe the emotions coursing through my body as I watched my firstborn child, this whole person that I made completely nail this guitar solo in front of a crowd of people. The waves of pride kept coming as the day wore on, gleefully watching him play several more songs. When I got home, I posted the video of the guitar solo on my social media and my heart continued to swell with pride from the supportive comments and reactions, until I thought it might actually burst. It was easily one of the best days of my life, and hopefully his too.
That day, it hit me that the guitar is not just a musical instrument to my son. It is his therapy, his lifeline, his weapon against dark and intrusive thoughts.
Before he found this hobby, he was not in a great place. His father and I divorced when he was in the sixth grade, smack dab in the middle of a pandemic, and it hit him hard. He was depressed, distracted in class, and seemed un-
happy almost all the time. His grades were falling and the teachers kept calling. I didn’t know what to tell them. He had few friends, if any, and his shyness and insecurities worsened.
Despite his introverted nature, I found a therapist for him and encouraged him to open up, hoping that he could talk his way through the pain with a professional. I’m a huge proponent for therapy and mental health care. I’ve been in therapy for six years and I’d be lost without it, so my hopes were high.
His therapist, a soft-spoken, youngish guy was able to connect with him – whenever they were talking about video games, that is. I suspect their conversations never really rose beyond surface level. Not that he was a bad therapist. I could tell that he saw my son for exactly who he was: a shy, sweet, funny, intelligent, and deeply misunderstood kid. He just couldn’t crack that dark shell he was hiding in. Eventually the therapist stopped taking our insurance and his sessions came to an end. My son was thrilled; I was worried. Never in a million years could I have imagined that an instrument would be the breakthrough that we needed.
We’re talking about a child who has hated almost every song I have ever played, who scoffed at other kids for their taste in popular music his entire life. When he was younger I never even considered putting him in a music class – the thought seemed ridiculous at the time. Instead, we tried karate, baseball, swimming, basketball, flag football. In retrospect, I should have also put him in art classes, but all boys love sports, right? Yikes, I know. He did really enjoy flag football, though, and it helped his confidence level immensely. Until it didn’t, anyway.
When he was a baby, his favorite show was called Jack’s Big Music Show. It was one of the only things that would stop him from crying through colic, teething and crankiness (and for that reason it is also one of my favorite shows of all time). Whenever it came on, he would happily switch his full focus to the three lively puppets and their garage band full of every instrument under the sun. I always found it ironic that he seemed to dislike music so much after the way he would light up when that show came on. But, as it turns out, there is a major difference between listening to music and making music, and when my son discovered this his entire world opened up.
My son is now 16 years old and has since taught himself to play the piano. We have an electric keyboard in the garage and when he is in there practicing, I feel like I’m in the lobby of a fancy hotel. I cannot believe this is the same child who used to beg me to drive in silence because the radio annoyed him so much. It turns out he simply isn’t a fan of the stuff everyone else is listening to. Eventually he found his sound, and I took him to his first concert last year to see a progressive band called Polyphia, whose songs are electric and mostly lyric-free –and by far his favorite to practice on the guitar.
I cannot express enough how badly I wish we had tried music sooner. I don’t know that it would have saved him from those dark times, but it definitely would have helped. Ever since he started playing, he’s gained a ton of confidence and purpose. His demeanor has shifted from sad and angry all the time to that of a typical teenage boy. While he still has his moments, the dark times are over. And if they ever return, at least he’s equipped to fight them off, one string at a time.
art l ab
1000 Richmond Terrace
718-447-8667
artlabsi.com
info@artlabsi.org
Art Lab offers a variety of after-school and weekend art classes for children ages 3 through teen. Visit Art Lab’s Annual Open House on September 14, 11am-3PM, for free demos, mini-classes, and a free tee shirt for children while supplies last. Look for free workshops and No School Daze events this fall. Check out adult class offerings in fine art, applied art, and photography too. Classes start mid-September.
b ritish swim school britishswimschool.com/ statenisland
718-576-1870
British Swim School is the
premier learn-to-swim provider for people of all ages, offering programs for children ages 3-months through adults. They use gentle teaching methods and a survival-first approach to help people of all experience levels become safer, stronger swimmers. British Swim School’s safe, fun, and effective instructional program has made it the preferred choice for parents and students for over 40 years.
dance Factory
505 Sharrotts Rd. 917-525-9277
DFGNYC.com
info@dancefactorynyc.com
At Dance Factory, the focus is on inspiring a love for dance through artistic excellence, innovative
choreography, and top-notch technique-based programs. Offering both recreational and competitive dance in a family-friendly environment, Dance Factory provides a home away from home for Staten Island dancers. With a commitment to excellence, the studio ensures every student experiences the joy of dance, whether they are exploring it for fun or pursuing it competitively.
dea m usic & art
1409 Richmond Ave. 19 Saint Mary’s Ave. 57 Page Ave. 718-370-7733 deamusicandart.com
Unlock your creativity at DEA Music and Art School! DEA provides high-quality education in piano, guitar, voice, drums, and violin, led by skilled professionals. Engaging group classes in musical theater and visual arts, perfect for friends seeking artistic fun together. Explore DEA’s new pre-
high school and pre-college preparatory divisions, designed for aspiring creatives aiming for a successful career. Experience unique performance opportunities at iconic venues like Carnegie Hall and Radio City Music Hall.
Fastrack ids
141 Evergreen Ave. 718-351-7333
ftkny.com
FasTracKids has been offering award winning enrichment programs for the past 20 years, ranging from preschool to homeschooling help, gifted and talented preparation, and tutoring and test prep. They also offer chess and STEAM classes as well as NYS Math & ELA, TACHS and SHSAT prep.
FTK believes that every child has their own special gift or talent, and with the proper instruction and reinforcement, every child can achieve their true gifted potential!
Fenix studios
4442 Arthur Kill Rd. 718-227-2345
contact@fenixstudios.com fenixstudios.com
Fenix is home to seven rehearsal studios, two recording studios, a podcasting studio and songwriting suite. Fenix Studios offers lessons in musical instrumentation, singing, video and music production, DJing, art, and photography. Included in the 10,000 square foot facility is a personal training gym, Fenix Fitness, which offers both one-on-one and group fitness sessions, MMA/Self Defense, yoga and more!
Call to schedule a free trial lesson. All are welcome.
Fusion Programs
297-299 Cromwell Ave.
718-554-6545
FusionPrograms.org
Fusion Programs is a modern makerspace founded to provide all individuals with an outlet for creativity.
They have sensory-inspired play spaces as well as fun and engaging classes for kids, teens, and adults of all abilities. Kids will enjoy baking classes in the chef’s kitchen, immersive art, design, and cinematography in the labs, and fitness, dance, and yoga in the studios. Beyond the innovative class offerings, Fusion hosts one-of-a-kind indoor and outdoor seasonal events and unforgettable themed parties.
J cc of staten i sland
1466 Manor Road 718-475-5200
sijcc.org
At the Joan & Alan Bernikow JCC of Staten Island, kids enjoy their favorite activities after school. Kids at all skill levels can stay active and build good sportsmanship in basketball, soccer, tennis, volleyball, and aquatics programs. Kids can express themselves and explore their creativity in music, art,
dance, and drama classes. School’s Out programs bring kids together for activities outside of the classroom. The JCC also offers afterschool programs for kids and teens with special needs.
leaP - i mmersive learning center
300 Cromwell Ave. 718-351-2710
YourLeapForward.com
LEAP is an Immersive Learning Center that, for over twenty-five years, has been a partner of parents seeking a prescriptive approach to learning differences and enrichment solutions. Founded by Dr. Maria Casale, LEAP utilizes scientificallybased methodologies to create holistic, immersive learning experiences for all children. The Homeschool Connections program provides options for families seeking alternatives to traditional learning environments. LEAP delivers reading and literacy
tutoring following OrtonGillingham methodologies and math tutoring utilizing multi-sensory teaching methodologies.
m aster curry karate 3896 Richmond Ave. 718-979-7087 mastercurry@mastercurry.com mastercurry.com
Ignite your child’s passion and confidence with Master Curry Karate’s extraordinary back-to-school program. More than just another activity, it’s a transformative experience. This skilled instructor brings over 52 years of expertise, including 32 years teaching in Staten Island. Discover Martial Arts’ essential life skills, boost coordination and strength, and empower self-defense abilities. Fuel your child’s enthusiasm for learning while building character. Enroll now to unlock a world of growth and achievement!
m usic and m ethod 15 Athena Place 917-715-6865 musicandmethod.com edmund@musicandmethod. com
Music And Method makes music education fun and engaging for beginners! Through its holistic approach, students explore technique, music theory, sight-reading, repertoire, and performance, leading to benefits that include creativity, organization, and confidence. Music And Method is dedicated to nurturing a new generation of musicians through private and group classes in piano, guitar, violin, voice and woodwinds. Join the growing number of musicians who are building a sound foundation with Music And Method.
s ilk road ceramics studio 751 Forest Ave. 718-702-6084
SilkRoadCeramicsStudio.com
SilkRoadCeramicsStudio@ gmail.com
This 4 week throwing on the wheel program is designed for teenagers to immerse themselves in the exciting world of ceramics. Guided by experienced instructors, participants will have the opportunity to explore their creativity, express themselves through clay, and develop new skills in a fun and supportive environment. No prior experience is required- just bring your enthusiasm and a willingness to get your hands muddy!
south b each art and d esign studio
3044 Amboy Road 347-322-1860 avail.interiors@gmail.com sbadnyc.com
This top rated art school offers expert art and design classes for both kids and adults, with flexible schedules and portfolio preparation for top schools
like Mark Twain and LaGuardia H.S. Students develop both the skills and the competencies essential for success and leadership in the emerging creative society. South Beach Art & Design Studio is a leading art school that prepares students to understand, contribute, and succeed in a rapidly changing society through the means of art.
staten i sland community tennis center
2800 Victory Blvd. 728-982-3355
sitenniscenter@gmail.com statenislandtennis.com
The Staten Island Community Tennis Center located on the campus of College of Staten Island 6 outdoor and 6 air conditioned courts. Fall classes for all ages and adults from beginner to advanced will start September 12th. Visit the website statenislandtennis,com for the Fall 2024 schedule,
pictures and videos of the programs. Adult leagues and season courts will begin Monday, September 9th. The professional staff is also available for private instruction by arrangement. Your group can play at random times by calling the club for arrangements.
s prout & b loom s peech Pathology 917-718-3083
sproutandbloomspeech. clientsecure.me sproutandbloomspeech@ gmail.com
Sprout & Bloom Speech Pathology is a privatepay private practice focused on developing and strengthening literacy skills, providing myofunctional therapy, and feeding therapy. Sprout & Bloom aims to increase convenience, flexibility and 1:1 support by offering virtual, homebased and community-based sessions. Sprout & Bloom
utilizes comprehensive and evidence-based methods to support overall health, wellness, and future success by evaluating critical needs within the community.
staten i sland a rt and culture visual arts studio
109 New Dorp Plaza 646-233-5173
inquire@siartculture.com
A visual arts studio where people of any age can hone their art skills. This collective offers small group and individual lessons in a variety of painting genres, different techniques, sculpture, paper-making, portfolio development, and more. They work with acrylics, watercolors, pastels, ink, etc. Best works are displayed and acknowledged in exhibitions. Develop your creativity and aesthetics! Sip & Paint available upon request.
victory gymnastics
3575 Victory Blvd. 718-983-9090
victorygymnasticscenter.com
Victory Gymnastics Center is proud to be Staten Island’s longest-running gymnastics facility. After opening their doors in 1980, they have had the pleasure of providing families of all ages with gymnastics, tumbling, parent and child programs, birthday parties, and competitive team programs. The increased strength, flexibility and coordination athletes gain from gymnastics will carry over to their performance in various other sports.
One of their primary goals has always been to help increase the self-esteem of the children who participate in their programs. This positive atmosphere gives children the confidence to participate successfully in school and athletics alike.
Tumbling Classes (beginner through advanced)
Private lessons
Open Gym
Tumbling Clinics
Tiny Tots (10-18mos)
Tumbling Tots (18mos-3yrs)
Kinder Gym (2.5-3.5yrs)
PreK (3.5-4.5yrs)
School age (4-14yrs)
Birthday Parties (5 & up)
Afterschool l eaders
Ask any kid who their favorite teacher is, and it’s likely to be the one teaching their favorite subject (which explains why there are so many beloved gym teachers out there). So there’s a good possibility that the person leading the exciting activities your child attends after school - when the fun really happens - is someone they admire greatly and enjoy learning from. That’s why it’s so important that the staff at any afterschool programs your child enrolls in are trustworthy, knowledgeable and talented, like the professionals listed below who each serve as exemplary leaders in their respective fields. Read on to learn about the person who might be at the forefront of your child’s next afterschool adventure.
a rt Lab
Lynnanne Daly, Executive Director
Lynnanne Daly, Art Lab’s executive director, has a 20-year career in the fields of art and education. After receiving her BA in art and psychology, she was an instructional support educator, coordinator of adult and teen educational programs, gallery manager, and Montessori School art specialist prior to working at Art Lab. She is deeply committed to Art Lab’s environment of creativity and expression. All creative beings are welcome at Art Lab!
Dea Music & a rts
Magi Kapllani, Founder & CEO
Magi Dizdari Kapllani is an accomplished pianist dedicated to sharing her musical knowledge with the next generation. A prodigy, she has performed as a soloist across Europe and the U.S. and collaborated with renowned orchestras. In 2004, she founded DEA Music and Art Studio, which has grown from eight students to hundreds. Magi’s influence as an educator is profound, with her students winning international competitions and performing at prestigious venues.
FastracKids Learning Center
Franco Verdino, Director
Franco Verdino, the director of FasTracKids and Eye-Level Learning, holds a BBA from Baruch College in Finance & Marketing. He is an award winning educational administrator and has been named Top Licensee with FasTracKids and Eye-Level Learning in 2009, 2010 and 2011, & 2022. Franco believes that education is the key to our children’s future and that if he is successful, he will be helping children in the NYC area reach their full potential!
British Swim School
Eliza Fuentes, Manager of Instructors
Eliza Fuentes joined British Swim School as an instructor in February 2022, and was promoted to Manager of Instructors for Staten Island in May 2024. She has extensive training within British Swim School’s unique curriculum around Special Abilities, Adult Learning, and Water Safety Instruction. She is a passionate believer that all people should have the chance to learn to swim! In addition to working with British Swim, she also coaches Rowing with the Urban Assembly Harbor School.
Fenix Studios
Tony Hansen, Owner
Fenix Studios is celebrating 25 years of serving the local music scene. Owner Tony Hanson opened the facility envisioning a one-stop-shop for aspiring artists. With a consistent goal of presenting accessible resources, and nurturing the talent of everyone who walks through the door, Fenix leads a great path of creativity, inclusivity, and production. As they’ve expanded, Fenix Fitness was born with the goal of incorporating health and wellness into the everyday lives of individuals.
Dance Factory
Michelle Caputo & Nicole CaputoD’Agostino, Co-Owners and Artistic Directors
Nicole Caputo-D’Agostino brings over 35 years of dance experience, having trained at the Joffrey Ballet School and received a BFA from NYU Tisch. She’s recognized for her excellence in dance education and choreography. Michelle Caputo is a former New York Knicks City Dancer and Captain. With extensive professional dance experience, she’s performed globally and has been featured by Body Wrappers Dancewear and Broadway Dance Center.
JCC
Irina Zaviyalova, Director of Aquatics Programming & Operations
Irina Zaviyalova (formerly Vyguzova) is a former elite World-class athlete and two-time Olympic diver, who currently serves as Director of Aquatics Programming & Operations at the Joan & Alan Bernikow JCC of Staten Island. Irina has extensive experience in coaching and management at both international and local levels. In her current role, she promotes community swim safety and wellness through aquatics programs for children and adults. She recently reinvigorated the JCC’s Swimming Academy, which brings quality swim instruction to Staten Island youth.
LeaP immersive Learning Center
Dr. Maria T. Casale, Ph. D., CEO and Founder
Dr. Maria Casale is the CEO and founder of LEAP, an immersive learning center for the past 25 years. She is also the founder and educational director of ‘Parents as Partners’ Homeschool Connections Cooperative Programs (HSC). Recently, Maria’s vision for developing unique learning experiences for kids inspired the creation of Fusion Programs. Maria is the co-founder of Fusion Programs, developed to foster individuality, creativity, and collaboration through the natural ingenuity of kids, teens, and adults.
Music a nd Method
Edmund Yu, Founder and Lead Teacher
Edmund Yu is a dynamic musician who has been a part of music education on Staten Island for more than 22 years. His teaching career began in 2002 when he launched Music And Method, a teaching studio that specializes in piano and has since grown to include classes in guitar, violin, voice and woodwinds. Edmund is committed to serve Music And Method to establish a foundation of music literacy for its students and community.
Master Curry Karate
Tom Curry, Grand Master
Grand Master Tom Curry, a retired NYPD Intelligence Detective and Tactical Instructor, has been teaching families in Staten Island for over 30 years. Since beginning his training in 1971, he has fostered a fun, empowering environment for students of all ages, focusing on personal growth and confidence. A 9th Degree Black Belt, he has instructed law enforcement and led seminars nationwide. Join this growing family and experience the transformative benefits of martial arts training.
Silk road Ceramics Studio
Diana Ferdinando and Darren Corona, Co-Founders
In September 2023, Diana Ferdinando and Darren Corona opened Silk Road Ceramics Studio. With over 30 years of experience, Corona values pottery’s unique ability to connect people through creativity. Ferdinando, a former music educator, discovered the therapeutic power of clay and seeks to blend artistic expression with community engagement. Together, they have created a nurturing haven for artistic exploration and connection, welcoming both experienced artisans and beginners to their studio.
Open House & Student Show Opening
Reception: September 14, 11am - 3pm
Free for all ages! Take a demo class with an Art Lab professional teaching artist. Be the first to see the Annual Art Lab Student Show. Children receive a free Art Lab t-shirt *while supplies last* and refreshments will be served.
Fall Classes Begin September 15
Art Lab offers weekly art classes for all ages (3 and up) Including Creations, Young People’s Art, Pre-K Art, Afterschool Art, Intro to Sculpture, Ceramics for Young Artists & Teens, and more!
Fine Arts, Applied Arts, & Photography classes available for adults too. Register online or call us for more info.
Special Programs Available:
Gallery Events - No School Daze - Scholarships for classes
Volunteer/Intern at Art Lab - Birthday Parties / Art for a Day
Upcoming Free Events:
No School Daze: Sponsored by ConEdison Monday, October 14 & Friday, November 1 AM: 10 AM - 11:30 AM PM: 12 PM - 1:30 PM Art Workshops for ages 6 - 12, Registration required Halloweekend Workshops:
Make Your Own Monster and Scratch Art Halloween Masks Sunday, October 27 12:00 PM - 3:30 PM Costumes Encouraged
South Beach a rt and Design academy
Marina Duvidzon, Founder & Director
Marina Duvidzon, a celebrated artist, interior designer, and educator, is the visionary founder of leading South Beach Art & Design school. Her passion for art is both taught and embodied, guiding students through the creative process. As a signature member of NAWA, Marina’s influence reaches beyond the classroom. From organizing prestigious competitions to curating international exhibitions, she ignites a deep love for art, inspiring students to embrace their own artistic journeys with fervor.
Sprout & Bloom Speech Pathology
Nicole Lewis M.S., CCC-SLP, TSSLD, Owner/Speech-Language Pathologist
Nicole Lewis is an ASHA certified Speech-Language Pathologist licensed in NY State. She graduated from New York University with her Masters of Science in Communicative Sciences and Disorders and has her Teacher of Students with Speech and Language Disabilities Certificate. Nicole has experience with individuals across the life-span, including schoolaged children diagnosed with ASD. Much of her work has been in private practice and school-based settings. Nicole specializes in literacy development, myofunctional, and feeding therapy.
Staten
island a rt a nd Culture Visual a rts Studio
Anna Sehnsucht, Founder
Anna Sehnsucht is dedicated to enriching the local community through art and culture. An acclaimed artist, entrepreneur, and grant recipient, Anna has designed and implemented innovative programs that combine art, culture, and history. Her engaging initiatives captivate both children and adults, fostering a vibrant appreciation for the arts in Staten Island. Anna’s visionary leadership and creative genius continue to inspire and transform Staten Island’s cultural landscape.
Staten island Community tennis Center
Jim
Barton, Director
Jim Barton has served the Staten Island tennis community in many ways. He has managed three tennis clubs and was the director of tennis at the Richmond County Country Club. As a coach, he has overseen and trained several generations of students who became NCAA all americans and achieved high national and sectional rankings. Through the years, Jim has introduced thousands of Islanders to the game of tennis.
Victory Gymnastics
Richard Lyle, Owner
Born on Staten Island, Richard Lyle discovered his passion for gymnastics in Middle school. He was a collegiate gymnast, helping LIU win a North Atlantic Championship and served as Assistant Women’s Varsity Coach. Richard also coached at Tottenville where he was a varsity athlete and won two NYC team championships. He began coaching at Victory Gymnastics in 1987 and took over ownership in 2017. His joy is watching his students grow through the sport.
