As families get back into the structure of a new school year, many seek out ways to extend the school day, for a variety of reasons. After-school programs provide enriching experiences for families who need that extra support during after-school hours, and for parents who are looking to add even more fun and learning to a child’s day.
Cincinnati offers every type of after-school program imaginable, from all-encompassing programs to specific classes that focus on music, art, dance, STEM and more. If you’re looking for enrichment opportunities for your child this year, check out these locations that can be found all around town.
Traditional Programs
Mayerson JCC of Cincinnati After Crew Program
8485 Ridge Road, Cincinnati | mayersonjcc.org
Mayerson JCC offers an all-encompassing after-school program called After Crew. Students at nearby schools can take a shuttle to the program, which is offered both part-time and full-time. “These programs allow children to unwind after a school day and have their homework completed before they get home,” says Karli Wood with Mayerson JCC. “After Crew at the J offers plenty of unique enrichment opportunities that complement and add to what they’re learning in school, while keeping them entertained.”
YMCA of Greater Cincinnati
Multiple locations | myy.org
The YMCA offers a comprehensive after-school program, both within many of its branches and throughout area schools. During the program, children have time to complete homework with support, participate in activities such as sports, art and music, and simply have time to enjoy supervised play.
Dance & Music Programs
Tippi Toes Dance Company
Multiple locations | tippitoesdance.com
“Tippi Toes Dance Company cheerfully provides children with a fun, positive and nurturing environment, so they are able to experience the joys of dance, self-expression and movement,” says Andrea Dangel, owner of Tippi Toes Dance Company. The dance company offers after-school programs at various early childhood centers and elementary schools throughout Cincinnati.
Cincinnati School of Music
Multiple locations | cincinnatischoolofmusic.com
Cincinnati School of Music offers after school, evening and weekend private lessons for students for a variety of instruments. “At CSM, our focus is to provide students with excellent music education, but also to teach essential life skills that will help students succeed in whatever fields they pursue,” says owner and director Anna Backer.
Art Programs
Young Rembrandts
Multiple locations | youngrembrants.com
For the young artist in your home, consider an after-school class with Young Rembrandts. With locations in every corner of Cincinnati, there’s bound to be a program that works for you. School-aged children can explore their passion for art, while learning new skills and gaining an appreciation for various art forms.
The Art Academy of Cincinnati
1212 Jackson St., Cincinnati | artacademy.edu
The Art Academy of Cincinnati is known for inspiring and building great artists, and that can start at an early age. The Academy offers after-school programing in the form of art camps, as well as programs within schools. Children ages 6 all the way through high school can find an art program that’s appropriate and engaging for them.
Physical Activity
USA Ninja Challenge
4727 Red Bank Rd., Cincinnati | usaninjachallenge.com
Perhaps the most unique option on this list is USA Ninja Challenge. If you have an active child who is up for a challenge, sign them up for after-school classes that are as fun as they are exciting. Children ages 4 through high school can participate, and these classes offer a great opportunity for physical activity after a day of school.
Silverlake The Family Place
301 Kenton Lands Rd., Erlanger, KY | silverlakefamily.com
If you’re looking for after-school fun in Northern Kentucky, check out the options at Silverlake The Family Place. They offer a traditional after-school program, as well as specific activities throughout the school year. Choose from gymnastics, swimming, sports and more. Members and non-members can sign up for all after-school programming.
“In today’s culture, there are so many opportunities for children to be sedentary, and it is more and more difficult for parents to combat the many unhealthy situations parents and kids face every day,” Dangel says. “We hope to be an ally to parents as they face these challenges.” Many after school programs in Cincinnati share this point of view with the variety of enrichment opportunities they for school-aged children all over the city.