Academic Activities Near Me

We empower youth and youth with Developmental or Intellectual Disabilities as well as Autism. Our Respite Services gives caregivers the opportunity for well-deserved rest and self-care on Thursdays through Saturdays.

Budding artists capturing multiple objects tend to begin with the largest or most attractive one first, finish it, and move on to the next. By studying multiple object composition, line and air perspective, as well as color mixing, students learn to depict multiple three-dimensional objects and build a solid foundation for future artistic study. Our academic method of teaching will open the eyes and minds of aspiring artists to see the myriad of colors and tones in everyday objects. With these foundational skills, students will learn techniques to express their creativity. Classes alternate between Drawing and Painting on a weekly basis. All skill levels welcome. Students will learn to draw and paint multiple objects as a group taking into account proportions, depth, structures, along with light and shadows. Using acrylic or oil, students will flex these core principles of composition to attain the freedom to draw and paint three-dimensional still-life, landscapes and fictional paintings. Procuring painting and drawing materials are the responsibility of each student, but we are of course happy to advise which ones we think are best.

This program is designed to provide enjoyable activities that help students ease into their day and prepare for school. At the end of Before Care, younger children will be escorted directly to their classrooms, while older children will walk to their classes independently. Please note, we do not provide breakfast. You are welcome to send a snack or breakfast with your child if needed. You can register for the entire month or select individual dates through the "Drop-In" option. *All children must be registered prior to attending.*

Creative Critters Focus: Creative expression, open-ended art, building, and fine motor development Why it works: Captures the essence of creativity, art, and hands-on exploration with a preschool-ready structure. Description: Imagine & Explore: Art, Building & Discovery invites young learners to create, construct, and experiment through process-based art and hands-on building. With open-ended materials and teacher-guided exploration, this class encourages creativity, problem-solving, and a love of learning through play. Drop-off is welcome but not mandatory. Mini Movers Get ready to move, groove, and giggle! Mini Movers & Music is a high-energy class designed just for toddlers to explore their world through gymnastics, music, and creative play. Each session combines movement and rhythm to support gross motor development, coordination, and early social skills—all in a fun, upbeat environment. From balance beams and bouncing to singing and dancing, your little one will build confidence, express themselves, and most importantly—have a blast! Perfect for toddlers who love to move, explore, and make some joyful noise! Snacks are included! NO CLASS MONDAYS 9/1, 10/13, 11/11, 12/19-1/4, 1/19, 2/15, 3/23-27,

Splatterbugs A mix of sensory, art, social, music, and chatterboxes ! Splatterbugs A joyful mess of creativity, connection, and early communication! Welcome to Splatterbugs — a one-of-a-kind toddler class where little ones (ages 16 months–2.5 years) dive into a colorful world of sensory exploration, messy art, music, social play, and early language development. Each week, your child will: • Splatter, squish, scoop, and swirl through hands-on art and sensory stations • Sing, clap, and move to playful music and rhythm games • Build confidence and connection through guided social play • Grow language skills through storytelling, songs, and chatterbox-style prompts Whether they’re painting with their fingers, jamming on shakers, or babbling with new buddies, Splatterbugs helps your toddler express themselves, connect with others, and explore the world through their senses. It’s messy. It’s musical. It’s magical. Let the splatter begin! Mini Movers Get ready to move, groove, and giggle! Mini Movers & Music is a high-energy class designed just for toddlers to explore their world through gymnastics, music, and creative play. Each session combines movement and rhythm to support gross motor development, coordination, and early social skills—all in a fun, upbeat environment. From balance beams and bouncing to singing and dancing, your little one will build confidence, express themselves, and most importantly—have a blast! Snacks are included NO CLASS MONDAYS 11/28

Mini Makers Focus: Sensory play, creative expression, and toddler-friendly baking Why it works: Encourages imagination, fine motor development, and sensory exploration in a fun, hands-on environment. Description: Mini Makers is a playful, process-based class for toddlers who love to make, squish, and create. Each week includes colorful sensory activities like make-your-own dough, hands-on art projects, and even intro to baking—think mixing, sprinkling, and decorating! Perfect for curious hands and hungry imaginations, this class inspires creativity, confidence, and joyful mess-making. Snacks are included NO CLASS MONDAYS 9/1, 10/13, 11/11, 12/19-1/4, 1/19, 2/15, 3/23-27,

Viva La Música en Español! Canta y Baila Conmigo, is the very best research-based program that combines music education and language immersion. Intended for both the native Spanish speakers and eager Spanish learners, Canta y Baila is enriching and fun! Offering a playful, interactive atmosphere where language learning is integrated naturally and organically in the musical experience. Children are effortlessly absorbing and using the Spanish language, through the irresistible sounds and rhythms of Spanish speaking countries, while exploring melody, rhythm, movement, instrument and prop play each week. Teachers are professional musicians and native Spanish speakers. Materials Included: MUSIC PACKET: Kid-friendly songbook, CD and download of songs and chants.
 New collection each semester, given out at the 1st class, or sent directly to your home! PLAYGROUNG: Enabling you to have extra content from your favorite teachers and do fun family singalongs online INTERACTIVE CLASSES: Fully planned, properly paced, and fun classes taught by our certified teachers who are professional musicians, committed to your child's music development

This is a 6 week Session! Students will build a few Robots and will learn basic Robotics programming using SCRATCH to manipulate the Robot using a designated Theme. Depending on the student's abilities, they will be challenged accordingly and paired with a student with similar capabilities. All students will receive, to keep, a themed mini Figurines. Theme: Ninja

Join our 10-week Weekend Filmmaking Club for kids (ages 8–14) starting Saturday mornings this September! Each week, students will explore a new part of the filmmaking process—from storytelling and scriptwriting to acting, camera work, sound, editing, and production design—while creating their own short film in teams. ‍ Along the way, they’ll learn directly from special guests including professional screenwriters, actors, cinematographers, editors, and more. The program ends with a red-carpet premiere where families can celebrate their child’s creative journey. No experience needed—all gear provided!

Musicians in the Making teaches foundational music concepts through fun cooperative games designed to reach aural, visual, and kinesthetic learners alike. Pitch, reading, rhythm, and dictation are just some of the skills students will learn, giving them a huge leg up on their musical journey. Taught by Jeff Award winner Ariana Miles, our resident music director/”friend behind the piano”, Musicians in the Making is a great introduction to music for children on the fence about taking lessons as well as a valuable learning supplement for those already in them. Finally, a music theory class your child will be excited to go to every week! *Sign up for both Musicians in the Making and Broadway Stars and get 15% off tuition for this class!

🗣️ Friday Mic Mania Night Presents: "Highest Cheer...A Student Showcase and Holiday Fun!" Friday, December 12 | 5:30-7PM (Mandatory Rehearsal: Choose one — Sunday, Dec. 7 from 11am-1pm Tuesday, Dec. 9 from 5:30-7:30PM Ready to spread some holiday cheer, Highest Speak style? Calling all Winter 2025 Highest Speak Students! You must be registered for a Winter 2025 course to participate. It’s your time to shine (and sleigh)! Join us for our festive Friday Mic Mania Night, a fun and informal evening where students can perform: ✨ A favorite piece from their current or past public speaking class 📝 An original piece they’ve written — holiday-themed or not! 🎄 Students must attend one mandatory rehearsal on either Sunday, Dec. 7 (11 AM–1 PM), Tuesday, Dec. 9 (6–8 PM), or Wednesday, Dec. 10 (6–8 PM). Students will be coached and prepped for performance. All pieces must be 2 minutes or less — longer pieces will be trimmed during rehearsal. You’ll select your rehearsal date at checkout. 🎤 On Friday, Dec. 12 from 5:30 to 7:00 PM, students will perform for a small and supportive audience — each performer may bring up to 2 guests. 🎁 Expect some surprise fun! Instructors may perform a holiday-themed piece or lead festive games for students and families. 🪑 We’ll provide a mix of chairs and cozy floor pillows 💬 No microphones — just big voices and bold performances! ⚠️ Limited performance spots available! 📌 This event is only open to enrolled Winter Highest Speak students — sign up ASAP to reserve your spot!

SENSORY-MOTOR GROUP Led by Kelly McDonald — M.S. in Occupational Therapy | 20 Years of Experience Our Sensory Motor Group supports young children in building the foundational skills they need for play, learning, and everyday life—through a playful approach. Led by a licensed pediatric occupational therapist, this small group helps children strengthen: 🌟 Sensory processing and self-regulation 🌟 Fine motor skills (cutting, grasping, pre-writing) 🌟 Core strength, balance, and coordination 🌟 Following directions and daily routines 🌟 Emotional regulation and expressing feelings 🌟 Social skills and making friends Each session includes movement, sensory-rich play, calming strategies, crafts, and games that help children learn to understand their bodies, manage big feelings, and interact positively with peers. Perfect for children who need support with sensory processing, experience big emotions, or benefit from extra help with focus, transitions, or motor skills—in a nurturing and fun environment. ★ This class meets once a week for 4 consecutive weeks. 👉 First-time families may try one introductory class at a discounted rate ($25)! If you and your child find it to be a good fit, you are invited to register for a 4-class consecutive package. These sessions build on each other to offer maximum benefit through consistent participation.

SOCIAL PLAY GROUP Led by Ms. Paula — M.Ed. in Education & Special Education | 18+ Years of Experience This small-group program supports early social development in children ages 2 to 4. Through play-based activities, storytelling, and guided interactions, children learn essential skills such as sharing, turn-taking, following directions, identifying emotions, and engaging in cooperative play. The group fosters a safe, nurturing environment where young learners build confidence, empathy, and positive peer relationships. Key Outcomes: 💬 Sharing, turn-taking, and peer interaction 🧠 Emotion identification & regulation 🗣 Learning to express needs with words 🤝 Making friends and playing cooperatively 💛 Gaining confidence in a group setting PRICE INCLUDES: - 30 minute class - 1 hour of Open Play (w/ caregiver) REQUIREMENTS: 1. Signed waiver 2. Socks are required (adults & children) 3. Advanced registration

SOCIAL SKILLS GROUP Led by Paula Kelly, M.ED This play-based group supports young children in developing essential social skills for building friendships and navigating group settings. Through guided play, sensory activities, and structured routines, children learn to: - Greet peers and initiate play - Take turns, share, and follow group expectations - Recognize and talk about their own and others’ feelings - Use words to solve problems and express needs - Practice flexible thinking, cooperation, and self-control Each session is tailored to the unique needs of the group, offering a safe, inclusive space where children can build confidence, connect with others, and strengthen early relationship skills in a developmentally appropriate way. ★ This class meets once a week for 4 consecutive weeks. 👉 First-time families may try one introductory class at a discounted rate ($25)! If you and your child find it to be a good fit, you are invited to register for a 4-class consecutive package. These sessions build on each other to offer maximum benefit through consistent participation.

Fall Semester Session 2 (October-December) Students will exercise the imagination at the Art House. This class is designed to help our young artists learn and develop fine art skills that will also help them in writing and problem solving! Your child will be drawing, painting, and sculpting. Classes also expose them to art history. They are encouraged in their self expression while also learning to follow directions. Our projects are always new and engaging as they continue to grow in their abilities. We desire to build confidence and support their strengths. Classes are limited in sizes so sign your child up today!

This program is designed to provide enjoyable activities that help students ease into their day and prepare for school. At the end of Before Care, younger children will be escorted directly to their classrooms, while older children will walk to their classes independently. Please note, we do not provide breakfast. You are welcome to send a snack or breakfast with your child if needed. *All children must be registered prior to attending.* and must have submitted all required documents to the Director of Before Care. Our Before Care program is licensed under the Office of Children and Family Services, and we must maintain the regulations set by the state.

This program is designed to provide enjoyable activities that help students ease into their day and prepare for school. At the end of Before Care, younger children will be escorted directly to their classrooms, while older children will walk to their classes independently. Please note, we do not provide breakfast. You are welcome to send a snack or breakfast with your child if needed. *All children must be registered prior to attending.* and must have submitted all required documents to the Director of Before Care. Our Before Care program is licensed under the Office of Children and Family Services, and we must maintain the regulations set by the state.

This program is designed to provide enjoyable activities that help students ease into their day and prepare for school. At the end of Before Care, younger children will be escorted directly to their classrooms, while older children will walk to their classes independently. Please note, we do not provide breakfast. You are welcome to send a snack or breakfast with your child if needed. *All children must be registered prior to attending.* and must have submitted all required documents to the Director of Before Care. Our Before Care program is licensed under the Office of Children and Family Services, and we must maintain the regulations set by the state.

Why use your PTO when you can use your WOW Back-Up Care? Join us for a full day of winter fun! Obstacle Courses, Arts & Crafts, Spanish & more... Includes Breakfast, lunch, and afternoon snack. Information will be sent out the week before with full details. Supplies Needed: Complete Set of Clothes Sippy Cup If you have any questions, please email us at office@worldofwondercenter.com.

This is a 6 week Session! Students will build a few Robots and will learn basic Robotics programming using SCRATCH to manipulate the Robot using a designated Theme. Depending on the student's abilities, they will be challenged accordingly and paired with a student with similar capabilities. All students will receive, to keep, 3 themed mini Figurines. Theme: Ninja

Starting to think about preschool or looking for meaningful ways your little one can connect with other children their age? Then Broadway Prep is for you! Developed by a professional performer turned child development specialist, Broadway Prep combines the creativity and energy of our Broadway & Me classes with a play-based curriculum that gives children the opportunity to learn through child lead explorations. Each week, Broadway Prep teachers bring the show of the week to life through music, dance, dramatic play, and process art activities. Snack time, sensory play, outdoor adventures (weather permitting), and of course, bubble time, round out the daily routine. WHY CHOOSE BROADWAY PREP? ✔️ Small Class Sizes (No more than 12 children per day) ✔️ Low Teacher : Student Ratio (max 1:5) ✔️ New Broadway Show each week! ✔️ Play-Based Arts Curriculum developed by a professional performer turned child development specialist ✔️ 1 or 2 Day Enrollment Options ✔️ Drop-In Friendly Broadway Prep is a GENTLE SEPARATION CLASS. Designed specifically for children ages 2-4 years old, Prep provides a fun and supportive environment where little ones (and their parents) can adapt to being on their own in a "big kid" class at their own pace. While the goal is drop-off, we understand that for many children, this will be their first separation experience. Parents will be allowed to stay in class with their child for as long as necessary and Prep teachers will work with parents to create a drop-off routine for each child that ensures both kiddos and their parents are comfortable. Parents and caregivers whose children feel comfortable being dropped off are welcome to stay at Soul City and hang out while classes are taking place but it is not required. There are plenty of comfy couches, tables where you can work remotely, and free wifi!​ With flexible enrollment options, you can join us 1 or 2 days per week or drop-in as your schedule permits. Stages is committed to making our quality arts integrated early learning experiences available and affordable for all families. For information about tuition assistance and free classes, please visit our Tuition Assistance Page