The school day may end in the afternoon, but some of the most meaningful learning happens long after the final bell rings. Afterschool programs give kids the chance to explore new interests, build confidence, develop friendships, and discover talents they may never have known they had. Whether it’s dance, music, theater, sports, STEM, or art, these activities help children grow in ways that go beyond the classroom.With the new school year just around the corner, now is the perfect time to find an activity that matches your child’s personality and interests. Fortunately, New York offers no shortage of incredible options. We’ve rounded up some of the area’s top afterschool programs, where experienced instructors create fun, engaging environments that encourage kids to learn, grow, and thrive both on and off the field, stage, or studio.
Bi’an Mandarin
347-258-9356
bianmandarin@gmail.com
bianmandarin.com
Bi’an Mandarin offers an immersive, play-based Mandarin program designed to spark curiosity and build strong language foundations in young learners. Through engaging games, hands-on activities, and interactive storytelling, children learn Mandarin in a natural and joyful way. The program integrates language learning across subject areas such as music, math, art, and science, helping students expand their vocabulary in meaningful, real-life contexts. Each class is thoughtfully structured to encourage speaking,listening, reading, and writing, while keeping children actively involved. From singing songs to conducting simple science experiments, students are exposed to diverse themes and content that enrich their understanding and usage of Mandarin. Bi’an Mandarin fosters a love for language through fun and purposeful learning tha goes beyond memorization.
Blade Runner Fencing
663 Manor Road (St. Lutheran Gym), Staten Island, NY 10314
917-443-0807
BladeRunnerFencing@gmail.com
bladerunnerfencing.com
Blade Runner Fencing Club, a member of US Fencing Association, brings over 25 years of coaching experience to youngsters aged 5 and up. Group classes and individual lessons are offered at affordable prices and there is no membership fee or contract. Fencing instruction is held throughout the year and equipment is available to borrow. Beginners are welcome. Parents can feel confident that their children are receiving professional instruction in a safe and friendly environment. Classes are small to ensure a positive learning experience with an emphasis on physical and mental discipline and the importance of sportsmanship The club has recently been recognized by US Fencing for their work in bringing fencing to youngsters in the Staten Island Community.
British Swim School
LA Fitness, 3231 Richmond Ave.
LA Fitness, 1565 Forest Ave.
718-576-1870
britishswimschool.com/statenisland
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 become safer, stronger swimmers. British Swim School’s safe and fun instructional program has made it the preferred choice for parents and students for over 40 years. They have two locations on Staten Island: at the LA Fitness Forest Ave. in the North Shore and LA Fitness Richmond Ave. in the South. There are lesson options available seven days a week, with classes as early as 2:45pm during the school week. You can enroll at any time and start the following day.
JCC of Staten Island
1466 Manor Road, Staten Island, NY 10314
718-475-5200
SIJCC.org
Growing up is about discovering new interests, building confidence, and finding where you belong. At the Staten Island JCC, children and teens are encouraged to learn, create, play, and grow in a welcoming community. Through afterschool programs, sports, aquatics, music, and other enrichment activities, young people can explore their passions while building meaningful friendships and lifelong skills. The JCC is committed to creating supportive experiences for every child, including specialized programs and inclusive opportunities for children and teens with special needs. Whether they’re trying something new, developing a talent, or connecting with their peers, every program is designed to help children feel supported, empowered, and part of something bigger in a community where they can thrive.
Master Curry
3896 Richmond Avenue, Staten Island, NY 10312
718-979-7087
mastercurry.com
For more than 35 years, Master Curry Karate Jujutsu Ryu has helped children, teens, and adults develop confidence, discipline, respect, and practical self-defense skills in a safe, encouraging environment. Led by Master Curry, a retired NYPD Detective with decades of teaching experience, every program is designed to build stronger minds, healthier bodies, and greater self-confidence. Parents appreciate the school’s focus on anti-bullying, leadership, focus, and character development, while adults enjoy realistic self-defense training and fitness. Serving families since 1991, Master Curry Karate Jujutsu Ryu welcomes students ages 3 and up, regardless of experience. Call today to schedule a personal introductory appointment and discover why generations of families have trusted Master Curry to help them become stronger, more confident, and more successful in life.
Music and Method
15 Athena Place
917-715-6865
edmund@musicandmethod.com
musicandmethod.com
Music And Method was founded in 2002 and focuses on making music education fun and engaging for beginner students across Staten Island. Its holistic approach covers technique, music theory, sight-reading, repertoire, and performance, fostering creativity, organization, and confidence. Today, Music and Method continues to be dedicated to nurturing the next generation of musicians through offerings of private lessons and group classes that inspire peer learning and collaboration. Students excel in piano, guitar, violin, woodwinds and voice, and engage the community through regular performances. Join the growing number of musicians on Staten Island who are building a sound foundation with Music And Method.
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. With a variety of programs that emphasize proper fundamentals, attentive coaching, and steady confidence-building, the goal has always been creating an environment where every child feels seen, supported, and encouraged on their journey to fall in love with gymnastics.
