Academic Activities Near Me

Puppet shows are back! Join us once a month on this Saturday mornings as we take kiddos on a story-time adventure with puppet pals Sneaky Pete, Tom the Rat, Meowzers, plus some new special guests! There will also be theater and movement games, dancing, and singing. Caregiver is required to stay.

Course Description: Vibe Coding is a high-energy, creativity-driven coding program designed to make programming approachable, engaging, and fun for all learners. Whether building games, designing interactive websites, or creating digital art, students will learn coding by doing — working on hands-on projects that connect to their personal interests. The course blends problem-solving, creativity, and teamwork, helping students develop not only coding skills but also the confidence to apply them in school, careers, and everyday life. By the end, each student will have a portfolio-worthy project that reflects their unique “vibe.” Target Audience: Grades 4–12 (can be adapted for adults) Duration: 8–12 weeks (customizable) Format: 2 sessions/week (1.5 hours each) Module 1: Coding Mindset & Digital Confidence • Intro to Coding – What coding is, where it’s used, and why it’s exciting • Problem-Solving Mindset – Breaking big problems into small steps • Digital Creativity – How coding powers apps, games, and websites Module 2: Coding Fundamentals • Basics of Logic – Sequencing, loops, and conditions • Variables & Data – Storing and using information • Functions – Writing reusable code blocks • Hands-on mini-projects after each concept Module 3: Vibe Projects (Engage & Create) • Make Your First Game – Simple 2D game (Scratch or JavaScript/HTML5) • Create a Website – Personal bio page or school project site • Data Fun – Visualizing simple datasets (Google Sheets + JavaScript) Module 4: Collaboration & Real-World Skills • Pair Programming – Working together on a shared project • Debugging Techniques – Finding and fixing problems • Version Control Basics – Intro to GitHub for teamwork Module 5: Capstone Project – Your Vibe, Your Code • Students choose a project based on their interest: o Game o Portfolio website o Interactive quiz o Digital storytelling • Presentation to peers, parents, or school community Extras / Optional Enhancements • Guest speakers from tech companies • Mini “Code Jam” challenges • Career talk: Paths in tech and creative coding Tools & Platforms: • Younger students (Grades 4–6): Scratch, Tynker, Code.org • Middle school (Grades 6–8): JavaScript with p5.js, HTML/CSS • High school: Python, JavaScript, GitHub, Replit

Get ready for a week of bold, vibrant creativity during Spring Break! In our Color Lab Camp, young artists will dive into hands-on art experiences that celebrate bright colors, playful experimentation, and creative expression. Campers will explore mixing, layering, and using color in exciting ways while creating dynamic, one-of-a-kind artworks. This week-long camp is process-focused, imagination-driven, and all about having fun while making art in a supportive, inspiring studio environment. Requirements : - 4-8 years old ( NO EXCEPTIONS) - Children must be ready to follow safety guidelines and engage in their projects for 30 minutes or more. - Children must be fully potty-trained and capable of handling their bathroom needs independently. - Any medical conditions (such as allergies or diabetes) and/or behavioral needs (neurodiversity, trauma) your child may have must be informed during the sign-up process. This information will help us make any necessary preparations and provide a supportive and enjoyable environment for everyone. Please note that all information shared is kept confidential. The policy for Messy Art Lab Camps is as follows: - 100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of registration. - All enrollment fees include a non-refundable deposit of 20%. - Refund of enrollment fee minus 20% non-refundable deposit if cancellation is made prior to 30 days of session start date. - No refund for cancellations made within 30 days of session start date, unless the spot is filled, in which case a refund credits minus the 20% non-refundable deposit will be issued. - Cancellations must be requested in writing via email. - Approval for transfer of camp week to another week will be determined on a case-by-case basis and per availability, with a penalty fee of 20% non-refundable deposit if made within 30 days of original camp week start date.

7 Academic Themes, teaches Early Literacy and Math. Classes are taught by a trained teacher who will cover all 26 letters and relate each letter to real life in a fun and interactive setting. It's a Drop-Off class

Let’s get your child ready to start preschool before they turn 2 years old. Seeing is believing: this is a class for children who miss the September cut-off for preschool and are ready to learn and play! We will begin the class with a caregiver and by November your child will be on their own with the support of their teacher and coach. See your child grow throughout the Parent/Caregiver and Child sessions as they joyfully explore the environment, manipulatives, learning materials, and discover the children around them. You and your child will be in a preschool classroom experiencing some of the typical daily activities, and learn from an experienced preschool teacher. This class encourages creativity, cognitive and social development, and independence in a preschool setting. There is never a better time to start working on gross and fine motor skills! We will also incorporate a “regular” day of preschool and end with a fun sports class! First month is 1 hr, then 90 min, and we move to 2 hours after winter break! Snacks are included! NO CLASS THURSDAYS 10/2, 11/26-11/30, 12/19-1/4, 3/23-27,

Ready to make characters move and stories come alive? This camp introduces young learners to the fun of coding with Scratch Junior! Designed by MIT specifically for early learners, this app uses colorful picture blocks and simple drag-and-drop actions – no reading required! Through playful group games and activities, kids will explore the basics of coding and learn to create their own simple animations and interactive stories. Join us and let's get animating!

Duration: 5 Weeks | 1 Hour 15 Minutes Per Class Get ready for a high-energy, fun-packed experience where your tween/teen will discover the power of persuasion in the most exciting way! Persuasive speaking is a life-changing skill that helps kids express their ideas with confidence, influence others, and make their voices heard. Through lively games, engaging lessons, and creative challenges, your child will master the art of persuasion while having an absolute blast! LEARN • Explore the elements of persuasive speech and writing through interactive lessons and fun, real-world class discussions. • Be introduced to simple debate techniques in a playful and approachable way that boosts confidence. • Learn how to quickly structure both impromptu and prepared persuasive speeches in dynamic, fast-paced activities. • Discover techniques to captivate an audience with humor, creativity, and confidence. • Learn how to persuade different audiences with the right content while keeping things fun and engaging. • Learn how to better manage public speaking anxiety and nervousness, building confidence to speak up and present with ease. • Build a solid understanding of structure, tone, and delivery for persuasive presentations in a lively, supportive environment. DO • Work on both impromptu and prepared pitches, presentations, and speeches with high-energy practice activities. • Create imaginative and hilarious pitches with teammates for collaborative, laughter-filled challenges. • Participate in energetic demonstrations, role-playing, and interactive games that make learning unforgettable. • Receive individualized feedback, regardless of your child’s starting skill level, to ensure they improve in every session. IMPROVE • Sharpen public speaking and persuasion skills through instant feedback and hands-on practice. • Use the feedback instantly to ensure that the student captures it and applies it right away. • Benefit from personalized coaching that challenges and supports every student from their baseline. • Develop confidence, creativity, and clarity in expressing ideas, whether at school or in everyday life. Also, for classes with more than 10 students, two enthusiastic instructors will lead the sessions to guarantee every child gets the attention and feedback they deserve. Oh, and did we mention? Our instructors are professional educators AND performers who bring tons of energy and humor to every class. Your child will laugh, learn, and leave feeling excited for the next session! Please note: Occasional assignments will be given to maximize the class benefits.

Here at Tarzan Futbol Academy, we are all about development. Our small-group training program is specifically designed towards improving on the "ball familiarity" aspect . That means the basic fundamentals of football are gradually increased and applied to all exercises and games involving the sport. We will work hard to showcase your child's unique skill set and abilities as they are brought to the surface. By developing confidence and game readiness, your future star will be able to jump onto a team more than prepared.

24 hours of drop-in childcare with coworking included.

Come try one of our Taekwondo Classes! You and/or your Teen will have the opportunity to learn all about our Dojang (Korean for "Formal Training Hall") and experience what Taekwondo has to offer. Once the trial class is over Master Lee will go over any questions you have about the program including pricing and any Special Promotions we are currently offering. As of Spring 2025 we are offering 2 months of classes which includes a uniform and practice shirt for $99.

This hands-on 16-week course is an advanced cooking program designed for young chefs who are ready to take their skills to the next level. Students will step into the world of a 5-star kitchen, learning essential techniques such as plating, knife skills, sautéing, and roasting. What’s on the Menu Throughout the course, students will prepare a variety of gourmet dishes, including: • Roasted Apricot-glazed Cornish Hens • Classic Beef Stroganoff • Shrimp Scampi • Chicken Cordon Bleu • Hors d’œuvres and Gourmet Side Dishes • French Pastries and Desserts

A. Course Overview: The Python Programming curriculum is a one-semester course covering topics typically found in introductory computer programming (coding) courses. Other introductory programming courses are not required; students merely need to have typical computer usage skills prior to starting this course. B. Teaching Strategies: The course material is designed to appeal to a variety of students, from traditional learners who thrive on written text to audio-visual students who enjoy a multi-media format. All content is delivered through an online system that allows students to work seamlessly both in the classroom and at home. The main chapters concentrate on Python programming and computer science topics. Certain states may require additional topics ranging from computing ethics and security to career exploration to the impact of computers on modern society. The course contains additional supplemental chapters at the end that can optionally be used to meet common state requirements. Teachers may choose to assign Supplemental Lessons as desired to meet state standards or student interest. The final “Creative Project” is optional and can be completed in small groups C. Course Planner: Some classes may move faster or slower than the suggested pace. The planner assumes students are working daily with approximately 45 to 60 minutes of class time. In most cases, the planner estimates one day per lesson (including the lesson quiz), one day per graded chapter activity (lab), and one day per chapter test. Some larger labs are assigned more time. D. Reading and Objectives: Chapter One: Fundamentals of Python • Introduction to Python • Running Python Programs • Writing Python Code Chapter Two: Working with Data • Data Types and Variables • Using Numeric Variables • Using String Variables Chapter Three: Input and Output • Printing with Parameters • Getting Input from a User • String Formatting Chapter Four: Making Decisions • Logical Expressions • The “if” Statement • Logical Operators • More Complex Expressions Chapter Five: Finding and Fixing Problems • Types of Errors • Troubleshooting Tools • Using the Python Debugger Chapter Six: Lists and Loops • Lists and Tuples • List Functions • “For” Loops • “While” Loops Chapter Seven: Numeric and Data • Dates and Times • Advanced Data and Time Management • Random Numbers • The Math Library Chapter Eight: Working with Strings • Character Data • String Functions • Input Validation with “try / except” Chapter Nine: Functions • Writing and Calling Functions • Function Inputs and Outputs • Local and Global Scope Chapter Ten: Python Classes • Thinking about Objects • Class Variables and Methods • Managing Class Files Chapter Eleven: Class Instances • Creating Objects with Instance Data • Instance Methods • Managing Objects Chapter Twelve: Food Fight Project • Introducing “Food Fight” Chapter Thirteen: Creative Project Requirements (Scale as desired to meet available time) Design • Project Life-cycles and teams Coding Testing • Supplemental Chapter One: Python on Your Computer • Installing Python • Managing Projects • Using the Python IDE • Supplemental Chapter Two: Computers and Individual exercises per lesson Modern Society • Global Computing Issues • Managing Your Digital Identity • Impact of Computing • Artificial Intelligence Classes will be taught on-site or on-line CANCELLATION POLICY: All sign-ups are final. No cancellations or refunds will be issued after registration. Note: Students will also receive access to NexClap.com for online course materials and NexGenKlick.ai to capture and showcase their learning journey.

**MUST be in RISING Grades 2-4…NO Exceptions! Northern VA/DMV Area! We are back for the ULTIMATE IN-PERSON Summer Programs for your kids in our Reston Center! Public speaking skills are absolutely ESSENTIAL to academia, future career success, and to simply making friends! Effective and engaging storytelling and writing are key skills, not only for language arts, but to better engage with people, think creatively, persuade, and enhance ANYTHING we say! (It's also SUPER fun!) Welcome to Week 2: “Sensational Storytellers! -Fundamentals of Storytelling!" In this fully interactive class, we will have a ton of fun learning the elements of effective storytelling, playing hilarious storytelling games, and practicing multiple storytelling assignments! In this 5 day, 3-hours per day program, we will cover: - How to best PERFORM any kind of story! - How to conquer any level of NERVOUSNESS and become a more CONFIDENT storyteller! - The ELEMENTS of stories! - How to STRUCTURE and WRITE a story! - Different TYPES of stories from fiction, fantasy, stories about ourselves, motivational stories, and even news stories! - How to USE storytelling to enhance anything you do! Every day, the students will have multiple opportunities to practice what WE preach and receive feedback! Our 3-Hour day is broken into: Part I (1-1.5 hours) - Ice Breaker Activity - Lesson for the day - Practice through Game or Structured Assignment in Breakout Sessions! BREAK (15 minutes: Please bring a drink and snack.) Part II: Group Discussion of Previous Exercise/Lessons Lesson Cont. Practice through Games or Structured Assignment in Breakout Sessions! Wrap-Up We ALWAYS have two or more instructors to ensure EVERY student gets plenty of individual attention and truly improves their speaking skills! All of our instructors are teachers/public speaking professionals and are ALSO stand-up comics/performers, so your child is bound to have a great time! This limited sized class WILL sell out FAST! Reserve your spot TODAY! This is the greatest skill you can give your kids, while they have an absolute blast! ***NO class prerequisites necessary! Basic grade level reading skills ARE needed. Previous and New Students will ALL benefit from this program!

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.

This Middle School Class is perfect for an after school Art Experience. We will complete roughly 1 project each day- :) Includes all sitting fees, materials and glaze/ studio fees. Yes- You can bring a snack to class & eat before we begin.

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.

Students will learn fundamentals of portraiture and how to make faces both realistic and cartoonish faces that show emotion. Morning camp drop off is from 8:30am-9am Full refund anytime before two weeks prior to the start of the camp. 50% refund after two weeks from the start of the camp to the Thursday prior to the start of the camp. No refund from the Friday to the Sunday prior to the camp.

Spring Break Speak Up Camp | Grades 2–5 Half Day Camp | 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM A super fun, game-based public speaking camp where kids build confidence, creativity, and communication skills without even realizing they’re learning! Students will: • Explore multiple forms of public speaking including storytelling, persuasive, impromptu, and performance speaking • Learn the three core pillars of great speaking: Content, Structure, and Performance • Practice both on-the-spot speaking and written speeches and perform what they create • Receive constant coaching, encouragement, and individual feedback • Grow in confidence in a supportive, high-energy environment This camp is great for both our current students to sharpen their skills and for brand new students just getting started. We always maintain two instructors to keep activity groups small and ensure every child receives plenty of individual attention and feedback. Daily Schedule: 9:55-10am: Parent Drop-Off 10:00–11:30 Ice breakers, lessons, speaking games, confidence-building activities 11:30–11:45 Snack and social break 11:45–12:55 Speech activities, writing assignments, performances, and personalized feedback! 12:55-1:00pm Parent Pick-Up This camp is perfect for both shy and outgoing kids. It’s so engaging and fun that most kids don’t even realize they’re learning. They just know they’re having an amazing time.

Duration: 5 Weeks | 1 Hour and 15 Minutes Per Class Get ready for a high-energy, fun-packed experience where your tween/teen will discover the power of persuasion in the most exciting way! Persuasive speaking is a life-changing skill that helps kids express their ideas with confidence, influence others, and make their voices heard. Through lively games, engaging lessons, and creative challenges, your child will master the art of persuasion while having an absolute blast! LEARN • Explore the elements of persuasive speech and writing through interactive lessons and fun, real-world class discussions. • Be introduced to simple debate techniques in a playful and approachable way that boosts confidence. • Learn how to quickly structure both impromptu and prepared persuasive speeches in dynamic, fast-paced activities. • Discover techniques to captivate an audience with humor, creativity, and confidence. • Learn how to persuade different audiences with the right content while keeping things fun and engaging. • Learn how to better manage public speaking anxiety and nervousness, building confidence to speak up and present with ease. • Build a solid understanding of structure, tone, and delivery for persuasive presentations in a lively, supportive environment. DO • Work on both impromptu and prepared pitches, presentations, and speeches with high-energy practice activities. • Create imaginative and hilarious pitches with teammates for collaborative, laughter-filled challenges. • Participate in energetic demonstrations, role-playing, and interactive games that make learning unforgettable. • Receive individualized feedback, regardless of your child’s starting skill level, to ensure they improve in every session. IMPROVE • Sharpen public speaking and persuasion skills through instant feedback and hands-on practice. • Use the feedback instantly to ensure that the student captures it and applies it right away. • Benefit from personalized coaching that challenges and supports every student from their baseline. • Develop confidence, creativity, and clarity in expressing ideas, whether at school or in everyday life. Also, for classes with more than 10 students, two enthusiastic instructors will lead the sessions to guarantee every child gets the attention and feedback they deserve. Oh, and did we mention? Our instructors are professional educators AND performers who bring tons of energy and humor to every class. Your child will laugh, learn, and leave feeling excited for the next session! Please note: Occasional assignments will be given to maximize the class benefits.