Back-to-School Activities and Programs for the 2026-27 Academic Year

Relax this week, because you’re going to get very busy soon! With the start of the 2026–27 school year comes the opportunity to sign up for a wide range of programs—from preschools and religious schools to after-school activities including ceramics, music, dance, tennis, basketball, soccer and more.

Below, you’ll find some of the wonderful activities available for you and your children, all within a short drive from home.

You’ll also find information about full-time programs that you’ll want to explore now as you prepare for the 2027–28 school year.

The Arts

Clay Art Center is a nonprofit ceramic arts hub in Port Chester, NY, committed to providing an inclusive space for learning, creativity, and professional growth. Serving over 40,000 people annually, we offer weekly and one-time classes, workshops, residencies, exhibitions, and community arts programs that connect youth and adults through clay. Our mission centers on advancing ceramic arts through learning opportunities, artist support, and accessible, transformative experiences, fostering a community united by creativity in a supportive environment.

We provide learning opportunities with hands-on clay classes and programs for all ages, led by practicing teaching artists who emphasize both technical skill and creative exploration. Our gallery maintains a vibrant exhibition program, presenting up to ten shows each year that highlight nationally recognized, regional, local, and emerging ceramic artists. Public programs—tours, talks, and lectures—invite audiences to engage with critical dialog around identity, culture, and social practice. Our Artist Residencies and broader Artist Program supports over fifty ceramic artists with studio space, equipment, and opportunities for professional development in an environment that supports collaboration and growth.

Visit our website to learn more about our classes, workshops, one-time classes, private lessons, exhibitions, events, tours, artist studios, and Community Arts programs on our website. 

Dance

Located in Hartsdale, Central Park Dance is a place where every child can grow, belong, and discover their potential through dance. Its thoughtfully designed curriculum provides age-appropriate, progressive training that builds confidence, strong technique, artistry, and a lifelong love of movement. From Fairtytale Ballet through pre-professional study, students explore ballet, jazz, tap, hip hop, contemporary, lyrical, and more in a welcoming, supportive environment led by experienced faculty. Dancers seeking additional opportunities can train in the Ballet Academy or perform with Signature Company and Remixx Company.

Families also look forward to the beloved annual production of The Nutcracker, a treasured holiday tradition. Whether dancing for recreation or pursuing professional goals, every student has the opportunity to thrive at Central Park Dance.

Central Park Dance, 165-171 South Central Avenue, Hartsdale, 914.723.2949. Learn more and register here. 

Education, performance and outreach shape the mission of the Steffi Nossen School of Dance and Dance Foundation, celebrating its 90th anniversary teaching dance in Westchester.

Here pre-schoolers through pre-professionals and adults, can chose from a a variety of dance styles including creative movement, modern, ballet, jazz, tap, and afrobeats. The diverse and cross-cultural offerings reflect our philosophy that dance is universal and a unique form of education that develops the body, mind, spirit and character. Engaging conservatory style classes challenge each student to strive for personal excellence in a supportive, inclusive, non-competitive environment. Our professional faculty transmits their joy in dance along with its inherent discipline, training professionals and recreational dancers alike with equal opportunity, encouragement and enthusiasm.

Sharing a building with the Music Conservatory of Westchester offers families additional convenience in arts experiences. Learn more at our Shared Open House on September 19 to visit music and dance studios, take sample classes, meet faculty, and engage in crafts activities with ArtsWestchester artists.

Visit our website or contact us at 914-328-1900 or info@ steffinossen.org to discuss your dancer’s best options or additional general information. Steffi Nossen School of Dance, 216 Central Avenue, White Plains, NY 10606.

Music

A new school year—a new chapter in musical excellence. Start strong by enrolling at HBMS. Photo by Steven Schnur.As the new school year begins, students are invited to discover a welcoming musical community where they can learn, create, and grow. For over 80 years, Hoff-Barthelson Music School has set the standard for excellence in music education. Based in Scarsdale and serving students from across Westchester, the School offers a comprehensive curriculum: private lessons, theory, composition, and musicianship classes, chamber music, and acclaimed jazz, contemporary, and Youth Orchestra programs. Students flourish under the guidance of world-class faculty—drawn from top conservatories and professional ensembles—who nurture both technical skill and artistic expression. From young beginners to advanced musicians, students are challenged and inspired in an environment that values commitment, creativity, community—and the joy of making music. With flexible tuition and financial aid, Hoff-Barthelson makes outstanding music education accessible to all.

Hoff-Barthelson Music School, 25 School Lane, Scarsdale, 914-723-1169.

Sports

The House of Sports is Westchester's premier indoor sports and entertainment destination. Located in Ardsley, the 100,000 sq. Ft. state-of-the-art facility boasts 4 basketball courts, 4 turf fields, 2 batting cages, a full-service cafe, physical therapist and adult fitness programming. The House of Sports offers year-round sports activities including clinics, camps, leagues, tournaments and our very popular sports themed birthday parties.

This Fall and Winter the House of Sports offerings include:

-Classes and clinics for children of all ages in soccer, basketball, lacrosse, volleyball and multi-sports.
-Holiday Camps on all major holidays when school is out.
-Sports teams and leagues for volleyball, lacrosse and basketball.
-Westchester's best sports themed birthday parties.

Learn more by visiting our website. 

Rising Sport Stars—proudly partnered with the 2026 NBA Champions, the New York Knicks, alongside the Jr. Knicks and Westchester Knicks—delivers premier basketball programming that inspires passion, builds strong fundamentals, and boosts confidence in young athletes ages 3 and up. High‑energy clinics, leagues, and private sessions are designed to help every child grow through fun, competitive, and purposeful instruction. Small‑group challenges and team‑focused drills sharpen game strategy while developing essential skills such as shooting, ball handling, passing, and defense. Each activity is intentionally crafted to meet players where they are, with expert coaches providing motivating, meaningful feedback that supports every child’s unique journey. Recognized across the tri‑state area, Rising Sport Stars is where young athletes rise to the moment, love the game, and shine—on and off the court. Powered by Knicks Partnerships. Built for Rising Stars.

www.RisingSportStars.com, Info@RisingSportStars.com, 999 Wilmot Rd, Scarsdale and 280 Old Mamaroneck Rd, White Plains.

Join us at SPORTIME Harbor Island and SPORTIME Lake Isle, where world-class tennis and pickleball meet expert instruction and vibrant player communities! At Harbor Island, enjoy red clay courts and a new Outdoor Pickleball Center, just steps from the water. Over at Lake Isle, play on Har-Tru, soft-surface tennis courts and hybrid pickleball courts, with expanded programs at nearby Leewood Park. Lake Isle also features training at the John McEnroe Tennis Academy, offering high-performance tennis instruction for aspiring competitors. Both clubs
are open year-round and offer seasonal camps, group and private lessons, and modern amenities for players of all ages and levels. SPORTIME members have access to our full menu of programs and services, including JMTA training at Lake Isle, reciprocal privileges at other SPORTIME clubs, discounted court-time, and more.

Mamaroneck and Eastchester residents SAVE with special local discounts - ask us how! SPORTIME Harbor Island, harborisland@sportimeny.com (914) 468-4470, SPORTIME Lake Isle, lakeisle@sportimeny.com. (914) 517 3190.

SPORTIME Pickleball Yorktown is bringing a new level of excitement to a vibrant local pickleball community, and will provide players with unique opportunities to learn, compete, and make new connections with other passionate players. Features 12, dedicated, climate-controlled, state-of-the art pickleball courts, courtside seating and viewing next to every court, two private event spaces, modern locker rooms, a well-stocked pro shop, and a grab-and-go for healthy snacks and beverages. SPORTIME PIckleball Yorktown,yorktown@sportimepickleball.com | (914) 505-9444

SPORTIME Pickleball Armonk features 11, dedicated, climate-controlled, state-of-the art pickleball courts, courtside seating and viewing next to every court, two private event spaces, modern locker rooms, a well-stocked pro shop, and a grab-and-go for healthy snacks and beverages. Bringing a new level of excitement to our vibrant local pickleball community. We provide players of all ages with unique opportunities to learn, compete, and connect—from adult open play, leagues, and clinics to our dynamic after-school programs for kids ages 5 to 16.
SPORTIME Pickleball Armonk, armonk@sportimepickleball.com (914) 336-3595.

Westchester Skating Academy is the premiere ice skating and entertainment center in the tri-state area, located in Elmsford, NY. At WSA, your child can learn to skate, sharpen their hockey skills, throw a themed birthday party, or spin their way to a new figure skating move.

Our Metro Hockey League is a competitive, fun youth hockey program that includes clinics, games, practices, a team jersey, and more. League divisions include Mites (2018-20), Squirt (2016-17, Peewee (2014-15), and Bantam/JV (2010-13). Evaluations begin September 10th.

WSA’s Learn to Skate and Learn to Play Hockey classes are offered all year long. All levels are welcome, from the first steps on the ice to mastering advanced techniques. The next session of Learn to Skate and Learn to Play Hockey classes begin on September 9th.

WSA also offers holiday camps throughout the year with the first offerings kicking off September 21st. Our Camp Chillin, Figure Skating and Hockey Camps are fully supervised and offer both on and off-ice training to develop skaters’ individual skills. Both full day and half day camps are available.

To register or learn more about our fall offerings, please visit our website, or call 914-347-8232. Westchester Skating Academy is located at 91 Fairview Park Drive, Elmsford, NY.

Preschool and Religious Education

At The Nurtury Montessori, early childhood education is not just a service—it’s a commitment to nurturing young minds during their most formative years. Specifically designed for children from 0 to 6 years old, our Montessori school offers a holistic approach that fosters independence, sensory exploration, and critical thinking.

The Nurtury provides specialized programs tailored to different stages of development. Infants, from six weeks to eighteen months, are cared for in an environment that nurtures sensory exploration and emotional security. Toddlers, aged eighteen months to three years, engage in activities that spark curiosity and build motor skills. Children in the primary program, ranging from three to six years old, benefit from mixed-age classrooms that enhance social skills, empathy, and leadership. Each program supports the unique needs of the child while fostering a lifelong love of learning.

What sets The Nurtury apart is its dedication to creating a sanctuary of peace and support. Children experience meaningful interactions with peers of varying ages, developing confidence and independence through hands-on learning and freedom of choice in a nurturing environment.

We invite you to discover how The Nurtury Montessori can support your child’s growth and development. Schedule a tour today to experience our unique approach to early childhood education, and take the first step toward giving your child the foundation they need to succeed.

For more information call 914.632.6300 or check our website: 

Elmwood Day School provides a warm, child‑centered environment where every child feels safe, known, and respected. Our integrated, play‑based curriculum—rooted in the most current learning standards—blends teacher‑guided instruction with child‑initiated exploration to spark curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking. Light‑filled classrooms are thoughtfully designed to balance purposeful learning and joyful play, both of which are valued throughout a child’s Elmwood experience. Led by experienced, caring educators, our programs nurture each child’s growth and love of learning. Nestled on a summer‑camp property, Elmwood offers extraordinary outdoor opportunities, from an aerial playground and pretend village to a garden, mud kitchen, riding area, climbing structures, and areas for sports. Enrichments and after‑school clubs—such as Science, Drama, and Young Detectives—invite children to go deeper in an area of interest.

Reach out to us at: Elmwood Day School, 900 Dobbs Ferry Road, White Plains, 914-592-8577, directors@elmwooddayschool.com, 

The Hitchcock School serves children ages two through four years old. Our curriculum follows sound early childhood developmental practices and emphasizes age-appropriate activities in a relaxed, loving environment.

At The Hitchcock School, children are given the freedom to be creative as they interact with their peers. Emphasis is given to building children’s self-esteem and self-confidence by attaining problem-solving skills equal to their developmental stage. Children learn through play and hands-on experiences.

We use the Creative Curriculum for Preschool, which is based on five fundamental principles. These principles guide our practice and help us understand the reasons for intentionally setting up and operating our program in particular ways.

· Positive interactions and relationships with adults provide a foundation for successful learning.
· Social–emotional competence is a significant factor in school success.
· Constructive, purposeful play supports essential learning.
· The physical environment affects the type and quality of learning interactions.
· Teacher–family partnerships promote development and learning.

The curriculum helps teachers interact with children in ways that promote development and learning, foster children's social competence, and support children's learning through play. Our program focuses on exploration using: blocks, dramatic play, toys and games, art, library, discovery, sand and water, music and movement, cooking, and outdoor play.

For more information, please visit our website or call the office at (914) 723-0922.

Kids’ B.A.S.E. and The Little School and the Scarsdale Public Schools are excited to announce the expansion of the Kids’ B.A.S.E. After-School program. Kids’ B.A.S.E. offers grades K-5 after school care for Scarsdale elementary school students. The nurturing staff and stimulating environment offer an exciting alternative to in-home childcare while providing opportunities for socialization, relaxation, and enrichment.

For the 2026-2027 school year, KBLS with the Scarsdale Public Schools will now include Fox Meadow Elementary School in addition to current after school care at Edgewood Elementary School, Greenacres Elementary School, as well as our location at 307 Mamaroneck Road. Registration information can be found on the KBLS website www.kbls.org.

We will also be registering for our Little School program for the 2027-2028 school year starting in October of 2026. The Little School was founded in 1991 as a pre-school program for 2-, 3-, 4- and 5-year-olds. Our curriculum fosters early childhood social, emotional, and cognitive growth through developmentally appropriate practice. The Little School is accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children and licensed by the NYS Office of Children and Family Services and registered with Quality Stars New York.

Call now for information or a tour: phone 914-472-5409, email office@kbls.org, or visit our website at www.kbls.org.

Mazel Tots® at Scarsdale Synagogue provides a warm and stimulating environment, which encourages children's curiosity and helps them to grow socially, emotionally, physically and intellectually. Our warm nurturing staff will guide the children through a curriculum filled with a variety of child-centered and developmentally appropriate activities that are safe, fun and friendly. The children's spiritual growth will be enriched by the study of Jewish holidays, traditions and family values. We also offer a group of special activities such as sports and games, music, creative movement, sign language, yoga, science, art atelier and more! We have two beautiful playgrounds and gardens, plus a fully equipped indoor play space featuring ride-on toys, gym equipment, giant blocks and stepping stones just to name a few! Our Early Childhood Program serves children from 18 months through those Kindergarten-bound! For more information please contact Jody Glassman, Early Childhood Program Director at 914-723-3001 or click on mazeltots@sstte.org. You can also visit our website. Scarsdale Synagogue is located at 2 Ogden Road, Scarsdale, NY 10583. 914.725.5175.

Discover the Joy of Jewish Learning at Shorashim, Temple Israel Center's Hebrew School!

Shorashim, Temple Israel Center's educational program for children in Pre-K (ages 3–4) through 7th grade, brings Jewish learning to life through hands-on experiences, creativity, and meaningful connections.

The engaging curriculum helps students build Hebrew language skills, explore Torah stories, develop prayer literacy, celebrate Jewish holidays, discover Jewish values, and deepen their connection to Israel—all while having fun and forming lasting friendships.

Temple Israel Center is committed to ensuring that every child feels welcomed, supported, and successful. Its clergy and educators are trained to work with learners of diverse abilities, learning styles, and needs. The program offers flexible learning environments, assistive technology, sensory-friendly spaces, and accommodations for food allergies, creating an inclusive setting where every learner can thrive.

Special Offer: Families who are new to Temple Israel Center and enroll their child(ren) in Shorashim are eligible to receive their first year of Temple Israel Center membership (July 1, 2026–June 30, 2027) at no cost, provided they have not previously received a complimentary membership.

Families are invited to discover what makes Shorashim such a special place to learn, grow, and belong. To learn more, register, or schedule a tour, visit the Temple Israel Center website or contact Michelle Steinhart, Director of Learning and Inclusion, at m.steinhart@templeisraelcenter.org 914-948-2800 ext. 145.

The Leffell School offers an extraordinary educational journey where academic excellence meets Jewish values. Situated across two scenic Westchester campuses, our K–12 Jewish independent school nurtures young minds and launches future innovators through a hands-on curriculum featuring dynamic STEM and humanities programs, robust athletics, and vibrant performing arts. Guided by dedicated faculty and college counselors, Leffell School students are admitted to the nation's top colleges and universities and graduate as thoughtful, confident leaders prepared to make a lasting impact in the modern world. Our Akiva Program provides a supportive pathway for high school students first beginning their Jewish independent school journey. We invite families to experience our welcoming community and discover a top-tier education grounded in tradition.

Join us for our High School Open House on Sunday, October 25 at 9:30 a.m. or our Lower School Open House on Sunday, November 15 at 10:00 a.m. Visit our website or email usadmissions@leffellschool.org for more information.

It's time for the annual Blessing of the Backpacks at St. James the Less! Bring your backpacks, briefcases, and gym bags to have them blessed for a new fall season on Sunday, August 30. Services are at 9 and 1030am with a welcoming coffee hour following the last service. Come join us!

Looking for a church to call home? At St. James the Less, Episcopal Church, we're liturgically traditional, socially progressive, multigenerational and diverse with members from all over Westchester. Hear thoughtful sermons and beautiful music with programs to engage for all ages. All are welcome!

St. James the Less, 10 Church Lane, Scarsdale, (914) 723-6100. For more information, visit our website. 

Adult Learning

Scarsdale Adult School (SAS), an award-winning source of affordable quality adult education, has a fabulous fall semester starting in September. Mingle with members of the community at the next installments of the Town Hall Speaker Series. Hear from authors about their latest best-sellers. Visit historic sites in New York City while learning about the architecture and landscapes that bring Manhattan to life. Explore world-class art at the Met, the Bruce Museum, and the Jewish Museum while guided by expert art historians. Dine on the best gastronomy New York has to offer on SAS's one-of-a-kind walking tours. Delve into twentieth century women's history. Learn a new world language or improve your skills in one you already know. Discuss top-notch literature and films, indulge your creativity in one of the dozens of arts & crafts classes, and stay in shape all year round through in-person or Zoom-based fitness sessions. Visit ScarsdaleAdultSchool.org to register, to subscribe to the weekly newsletter, or to search the catalog. Call (914) 723-2325 or email Registrar@ScarsdaleAdultSchool with questions.