Local Activities

At Step 1 Childcare & Learning, we provide a comprehensive learning program for infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and pre-K children in the Melrose, Malden, Stoneham area. We create a nurturing and stimulating environment that encourages children to explore, discover and learn at their own pace. Our caring and capable teachers offer a variety of activities and experiences to help children develop skills in areas such as language, social interactions, problem-solving, motor skills, and self-help. We place a strong emphasis on creative expression and play-based learning. We understand that parents value an open and honest relationship with their child’s teachers. We strive to create an atmosphere that fosters positive communication and collaboration between parents and teachers. Our staff is dedicated to providing a safe, caring, and stimulating environment for children between the ages of 2 months and 7 years. We are committed to helping children reach their individual potential and become confident, independent, and capable learners.

For 125 years, the Melrose Family YMCA has been an integral part of the Melrose community. From providing a place to swim to offering a variety of health and wellness programs, the Y is dedicated to meeting the needs of our neighbors. Whether it’s providing child care, offering enhanced fitness for seniors, or helping individuals of all ages stay healthy and active, the Y is committed to being a cornerstone in the community. Every year, the Y serves an impressive 22,000 people. The Melrose Family YMCA has been a fixture in the community since 1894. Over the years, the Y has provided programs and services designed to meet the needs of the community. With a mission to help individuals of all ages stay healthy and active, the Y offers a variety of health and wellness programs, child care facilities, and enhanced fitness for seniors. In addition, the Y serves an impressive 22,000 people annually. For the past 125 years, the Melrose Family YMCA has been a beacon in the community. From providing a place to swim to offering a wide range of health and wellness programs, the Y has been dedicated to meeting the needs of our neighbors. With its mission to help individuals stay healthy and active, the Y has become a cornerstone in the community. Every year, the Y serves a remarkable 22,000 people.

In 1994, a group of Melrose residents with a passion for the arts decided to bring the beloved ballet, The Nutcracker, to the North Shore. After a year of fundraising and forming a board of directors, they had raised enough money to pay for the beautiful costumes and scenery that make ballet productions so special. Since 1995, Melrose Youth Ballet (MYB) has made The Nutcracker an annual tradition. The production is staged annually at Melrose Memorial Hall and stars hundreds of dancers from 19 nearby communities and 33 different dance studios. Through the years, MYB has been fortunate to have many talented Artistic Directors. Denise Cecere led the production in 1995, followed by Terry Fox in 1996, Tamlyn Bernhausen in 1997-1998, Jaclyn Cronsberg in 1999, Alfonso Figuera in 2000-2001, Katie Pesce in 2002-2004, and Jaclyn Cappozzi Demianiuk and Christina Leonard-Kristan as Associated Director in 2005-2015. Travers King and Andrea Fanikos have been co-Artistic Directing since 2017. MYB is proud of its many talented Artistic Directors and looks forward to continuing the tradition of The Nutcracker for many years to come.

As a parent of a young dancer, you want your child to have the best possible experience when it comes to learning the art of dance. Our dance year runs from September to June, allowing your child to be immersed in a challenging yet rewarding world. We emphasize development of coordination, poise, perception, self-esteem, and physical & mental discipline in a fun and inclusive environment. We understand that cost is an important factor when it comes to enrolling your child in any activity. That’s why we strive to make our dance classes accessible and affordable for all. With our quality dance education, your child will build a special connection with the art of dance that will stay with them for a lifetime.

At our music school, established in 1997, we offer private lessons on a range of instruments, including guitar, piano, bass, drums, voice, violin, mandolin, and ukulele. Our teaching staff is made up of graduates from the prestigious Berklee College of Music and experienced professional musicians, so you can be sure your children are receiving the best instruction. Through our lessons, we have helped countless students to excel in their performances both on stage and during auditions. We take pride in our track record and are confident that we can help your children reach their musical goals. Our music school is dedicated to helping children unlock their potential in a fun and creative environment. We provide private one-on-one tuition and our experienced teaching staff are here to help your children develop their skills and reach their musical goals. With our proven track record and the expertise of our Berklee College of Music graduates, you can be sure your children will get the best possible education in music.

At Bellevue Golf Club, we offer a variety of activities for members and their families. From a round of golf on our 18-hole course to swimming in the pool, playing a game of tennis, or enjoying a meal with friends and family, there’s something for everyone. We also have a calendar full of exciting social events that can’t be missed. Wine tastings, holiday brunches, live music on the patio, unique themed dinners, and family nights are just some of the offerings. Come join us and experience all that Bellevue Golf Club has to offer.

At Soccer Shots, character development is the foundation of their program, providing a platform for children to build confidence and develop important social skills. The Soccer Shots program provides an engaging environment that encourages children to have fun while learning the sport of soccer. Soccer Shots also incentivizes teamwork, good sportsmanship, and respect for others. Kids of all abilities and backgrounds are welcomed to join.

The Middlesex Fells has had a long and rich history. For centuries, it provided hunting and fishing grounds for Massachusett and Pawtucket (or Pennacook) Native Americans, who grew grain, corn, squash, and beans. In 1632, Governor John Winthrop named the largest body of water “Spot Pond” due to the many islands and rocks protruding through the ice. The Fells then went on to be used for farming and timber, followed by industrial activity in the mid-1800s. Finally, in the late 1800s, it was a key property in the Boston metropolitan park movement, driven by several conservationists. Today, the remaining Massachusett Tribe can be found at Ponkapoag. Parents can learn more about the Massachusett Tribe and the Middlesex Fells’ fascinating history with their children.

At our school, we offer a variety of Martial Arts training programs that can be tailored to the needs of both children and adults. Our programs include Kickboxing, Jiu Jitsu, Kenpo, MMA, Fitness Kickboxing and Reality-Based Self-Defense training. Furthermore, we also offer child safety programs and Bully Prevention classes. Our goal is to help our students develop self-confidence, discipline, respect, and focus. Our teachers are highly skilled and experienced in providing the guidance and structure needed to help each student reach their full potential. We believe that Martial Arts are a vehicle for character development and self-improvement, and we prioritize teamwork and character over competition and ego. With our focus on character development and inner strength, we are dedicated to helping our students unleash their true power!

At our centre, we strive to provide the highest quality of early childhood care and education. We understand that each child is unique and learns differently. That is why our teachers make sure to observe each child to discover what type of experiences they prefer, whether it be quiet or noisy, routine or novelty, or independent or social play. We know how important it is for children to be exposed to activities and play that are appropriate for their development. Our team of teachers works hard to create an emergent curriculum that meets the needs of each individual child, giving them the opportunity to gain confidence and celebrate their successes. Our goal is to foster a love of learning that will stay with them for life.

In 1971, a group of citizens from the Melrose community, including members of the First Congregational Church, set out to create the Melrose Day Care Center, Inc. (MDCC). The Church provided much needed space for the center, which has served the community ever since. Amy Spollett and Janet Runge were instrumental in starting MDCC, and both women continue to serve on the Board of Directors today. Amy's dedication to MDCC was evident as she served on the Board for 35 years before her passing in 2015. MDCC continues to thrive as a testament to the vision of the founders.

At our school, we are dedicated to providing children in the community with a Montessori education that emphasizes the theories and principles of Dr. Maria Montessori. Our carefully structured and comprehensive curriculum is based on the physiological needs of the child and incorporates reality-based activities tailored to each child’s individual ability level and pace of learning. Our intention is to help each child develop their full potential in all areas of life. We encourage exploration and discovery as our students learn, allowing them to progress at their own rate in a safe and nurturing environment. Our program is designed to foster independence and growth in every aspect of a child’s life, from physical to emotional to intellectual. At our school, we strive to provide children and their families with a unique educational experience that respects the profound ideas of Dr. Maria Montessori. We believe that the Montessori approach is the best way to foster physical, emotional, and intellectual development in each child. Through order, structure, and reality-based activities, we ensure that each child is learning at their own pace and ability level. We strive to help them reach their full potential by encouraging exploration and discovery.

At Melrose KinderCare in Massachusetts, we strive to provide a warm and supportive learning environment for children of all abilities and backgrounds. We are committed to meeting the diverse needs of our community and creating an atmosphere of acceptance and inclusion. Our nurturing and enthusiastic teachers are dedicated to helping your child reach their full potential. Come join the KinderCare family and discover the joys of learning!

Follow Your Art Community Studios is committed to making creativity accessible to everyone. We are passionate about providing a place where people of all ages and abilities can come to learn, grow, and discover the joy of art. Our studios offer a wide range of visual arts, writing, and performance opportunities to explore, including classes, workshops, and community outreach events. At Follow Your Art Community Studios, we believe that everyone should have the opportunity to express themselves through art. We strive to create an environment where people can come together and share their creative ideas, while also providing resources to help them make their visions a reality. Our team works hard to provide a safe and welcoming space for all members of the community, no matter their background or experience level.

At Follow Your Art Community Studios, we believe that everyone is capable of creating art. We are dedicated to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for people of all backgrounds, identities, and economic situations. We believe that an environment of creative freedom will inspire and encourage growth and discovery in all who enter. We strive to provide access to a variety of creative arts, crafts, writing, and performance opportunities, in addition to community space for private and public events. Our goal is to foster a supportive and vibrant creative community that celebrates the beauty of the arts!

The Melrose Recreation Department is dedicated to providing exceptional recreational opportunities to residents and visitors of all ages and abilities. Our department works hard to ensure that our programs and events are of the highest quality, while also striving to keep them affordable and safe. We are proud to be able to offer a wide variety of resources and activities that help to improve the physical, social, and cultural well-being of our community. The Melrose Recreation Department is committed to providing its citizens with the best recreational experience possible. From our leadership to our events, we strive to make sure that everyone can access our opportunities, regardless of age or ability. We also take great pride in our ability to provide activities and resources that help to increase the overall well-being of our community. Whether it's through physical or social-cultural programs, our department works hard to make sure that Melrose remains a strong and vibrant place to live. At the Melrose Recreation Department, we believe in creating a better future for our residents and visitors. Our programs and events are designed to be safe, affordable, and enjoyable for all. As we continue to work towards providing quality experiences and resources to our community, we remain focused on our mission to strengthen Melrose and improve the social-cultural and physical well-being of its citizens.

We offer a wide variety of different classes and programs for all ages. Whether you are just starting out or are a seasoned musician, we have something for everyone. Each class is tailored to the student’s individual needs and interests. Our teachers are passionate about sharing their knowledge and inspiring their students to reach their musical goals. At Music 101, we strive to create a supportive and fun learning environment. Our modern facilities are designed to provide a comfortable and inspiring atmosphere for our students. We also have a variety of special events throughout the year, such as recitals and master classes. Music 101 is the perfect place to start your musical journey. Our experienced and talented staff will help you develop the skills and confidence needed to become a successful musician. We look forward to having you as part of our musical family!

At CSDS, their goal is to provide an inclusive learning environment for all. They strive to create a safe and creative atmosphere for all students of any age, ability, and background to express themselves through dance. Through their approach, they promote a love for the art of dance, music, history, and the arts. The studios at CSDS are top-notch; they have two large-studios with Marley floors, high ceilings, and full-length mirrors. The space is kept clean and organized, making it a great place to practice and learn. The staff at CSDS is well-trained in their craft and dedicated to providing the best possible experience for their students. They are passionate about helping students find joy in their craft and fostering a love for the art of dance.

At the Dance Gallery, we understand our students. We recognize that not everyone who loves to dance wants to make a career out of it. That’s why we offer recreational programs as well as those designed for the serious dancer. We have a wide range of classes for all ages, from toddlers to adults, and for all levels, from beginner to professional. Our school has been around for 46 years, making us one of the oldest dance schools in the area. Under the artistic direction of Susan Tocco Catricala, we provide a variety of classes that suit the needs of both serious and recreational dancers. Our convenient location and schedule options make it easy for busy families to attend classes. We’re proud to have a street-front location with plenty of parking in the rear and access to historic Corinthian Hall upstairs. We’re always adding new programs throughout the dance season, so make sure to check back often!

At Melrose Dance Academy, we’re committed to providing an enjoyable and safe atmosphere for dancers of all ages. We strive to create a supportive, family-friendly environment, full of respect and appreciation for our students, their families, our teachers, and our neighbors. We offer a wide range of classes from pre-school to young-adult, and our experienced instructors take great pride in delivering world-class dance education. Our students benefit from improved coordination, fitness, musicality, and confidence, while also learning valuable life skills such as commitment and teamwork. We aim to create lasting friendships and memories through our classes, and we’re dedicated to fulfilling that mission every day.

Our Dance Academy offers classes for all levels, starting with pre-school and ending with professional. Our students can choose from a wide selection of classes including ballet, pointe, jazz, lyrical, tap, hip-hop and contemporary. The Director of our Academy, Kathryne Beagan, has over 20 years of experience in the dance industry. She is passionate about instilling a love of dance in our students and helping them reach their full potential. With her vast knowledge and expertise, she is able to create a safe and positive learning environment for all of our students. At the Melrose Dance Academy, we strive to provide a nurturing and inspiring atmosphere that allows our students to explore the joys of dance. Our experienced and dedicated staff are here to help our students reach their goals and become the best dancer they can be.

At Karate Pro Dojo, we understand that martial arts goes beyond simply learning how to defend yourself. We're dedicated to helping our students achieve their goals by providing fun, safe, and comprehensive classes that also focus on the success skills applicable to everyday life. Our staff is friendly and welcoming, helping students to build on their strengths and overcome their weaknesses. Our instructors are amazing martial artists, of course, but they are also incredibly knowledgeable in teaching those success skills that can be applied in any situation. come and join Karate Pro Dojo. Our collaborative and supportive environment will help you reach your goals, no matter what they may be. With classes that focus on self-defense, success skills, and more, you can trust that you'll get the most out of your martial arts journey.

Our Uechi-Ryu Karate classes are a great way for your whole family to stay fit and learn valuable self-defense skills. Not only will you get a great physical workout, but you'll also learn the importance of cooperation and team work. Everyone can come together, learn, and have a great time while working out. And with no emphasis on competition, everyone will be able to learn and enjoy the camaraderie of the class.

At Little Elephant, we strive to create an environment that reflects our belief in the power of the child. We support the idea of children as capable, competent and integral members of their community. We recognize the importance of each family and understand that each one is unique and deserves respect. We believe that learning through exploration, experimentation and questioning are the best way to foster positive social, emotional, cognitive and physical development. We strive to create an environment that reflects this philosophy and encourages children to reach their full potential.

Little Sprouts Melrose offers a variety of enriching activities and experiences to bring out the best in each of their students. From yoga and music to science and art, the program at Little Sprouts has something for every child. For families and neighboring communities looking for a superior early education program, Little Sprouts Melrose is the ideal choice. With its bright, sun-drenched classrooms and intentional design, your child is sure to become inspired by the learning and discovery opportunities that abound. Moreover, the passionate educators at Little Sprouts Melrose are dedicated to fostering each child’s social, emotional, physical, and academic growth through a variety of enriching activities and experiences. With its stimulating environment and dedicated staff, Little Sprouts Melrose is sure to offer your child the perfect environment for play, laughter and growth.

At MYB, we believe that dance is an incredible gift and are proud to provide a platform for dancers to come together and celebrate the art form. We are committed to providing an engaging, enriching experience for all of our performers, from the novice to the professional. Our mission is to nurture each individual dancer's growth and to foster a love of dance. We strive to create a supportive, safe environment for all of our participants, and to provide an opportunity for all to express themselves through movement. We are passionate about inspiring a new generation of dancers and believe that everyone should have the opportunity to explore the beauty of ballet. Our programming is designed to help dancers build confidence, gain performance experience, and grow as artists. We are dedicated to providing an unforgettable experience to our dancers that will stay with them for a lifetime.

At our school, we are proud to be part of the Uechi-Ryu Butokukai organization. This gathering is dedicated to the study of the martial arts and is certified and maintained by the Uechi-Ryu organization in Okinawa. We cherish the opportunity to learn and practice martial arts with this respected organization. The Uechi-Ryu Butokukai is an esteemed organization that values the study and practice of martial arts. Our school is one of 14 schools associated with the Butokukai, and we proudly maintain our direct link to the Uechi-Ryu organization in Okinawa. We are privileged to be part of this group and look forward to continuing to learn and grow with them. We are delighted to be part of the Uechi-Ryu Butokukai organization, which is dedicated to the study of the martial arts. Our school is one of 14 schools that make up the Uechi-Ryu Butokukai and we are honored to be a part of this esteemed group. Through our direct link to the Uechi-Ryu organization in Okinawa, we are able to continue to learn and develop our martial arts skills.