Kaplen JCC On The Palisades (411 East Clinton Avenue, Tenafly, 201-569-7900)
This Bergen County community center offers an impressive depth of kids classes with everything from Royal Music Party and Kids Rock and Pop for wee ones to more specialized music programs and private instruction (like “Piano Partners” and “Instrument Exploration”) held at the reputable Thurnauer School of Music, to an Aquatics Center with everything from mommy and baby swim to the competitive Waverunners swim team and more, this mega-center may already be your main source for extracurricular activity. If logistics is an issue they even offer their signature “Kids Club” program, that provides transport for your child to an after-school class, homework help and a snack- so you don’t have to rush for that early bus. Mommy playtime happens at Kaplen JCC’s gorgeous fitness center, spa or at the cafe.
Wyckoff YMCA (691 Wyckoff Avenue, Wyckoff, 201-891-2081)
There are plenty of well priced classes at this Wyckoff center including many for the under 5 set (think art, gymnastics and yoga, as well as mommy baby playgroups). But the real draw is the Y’s commitment to fitness and an active lifestyle. Besides the obvious facility attributes of a swimming pool, full scale fitness center with an array of classes and basketball courts, the center encourages and sets up training programs for kids to participate in everything from Triathalons to Fun Runs, so young competitors can set goals and train with experts who will help them reach them. Bonus: for a small additional fee, members can enjoy activities and swimming at the Y’s very own Spring Lake Park during the summer months.
Ridgewood YMCA (112 Oak Street, Ridgewood, 201-444-5600) Between a year-round swim team, lifeguard training and swim lessons, the Ridgewood Y’s indoor pool is a big draw to their gorgeous facility. But moms also rave about the Tiny Tot Soccer, Little Samurai Karate, and Chess programs to get their little ones engaged and active. A perk for families with teens? Their unique Leaders Club Program, which helps build confidence in teens while learning leadership skills.
Ridgewood Library (125 N. Maple Rd. Ridgewood, 201-670-5600)
A well kept secret among library goers is Ridgewood Library’s vast array of children and teen programming. When it’s chilly outside and you want to hibernate, look no further than the library’s catalogue of activities and signature classes such as Creative Writing Workshops (grades 4 through 6), Movie Matinees, Story and Craft Projects, and Reading to a Dog. Bonus: Non-Ridgewood residents can still enjoy this programming by purchasing a Guest Membership kids card.
YWCA Bergen County (Hackensack, 201-881-1700, Ridgewood, 201-444-5600, and Upper Saddle River, 201- 236-3126) You can tell the YWCA caters to women by offering before and aftercare programs in 21 Bergen County schools (thank you!), vacation camps and empowerment and leadership seminars. Add in Kids Dance, Judo, Zumba and the Aquatics programs at their Ridgewood and Englewood centers, and you’ve got a trio of locations you will happily tote your kids along to.
Kidville Englewood (20 Grand Avenue, Englewood, 201-266-0633)
If you haven’t already popped into Kidville Englewood’s gleaming storefront on Grand Avenue or used the adjacent lot (attendees can enjoy hassle-free parking) then you haven’t experienced the “Thrill of the Ville”. This go-to spot for all things mini includes curated classes designed for the youngest of tots- programs like “Wee Wiggle” start at 0-6 months and include a “sign language” portion to teach early communication, plus toddler favorites like Rockin’ Railroad and Toddlers in Tutus, and Kidville U (a Preschool Alternative Program) for “older” kids.
