Local Activities

Once upon a time, I had the opportunity to dabble in the field of secondary education while I was in college. I graduated with a degree in English, but I was able to gain invaluable knowledge about teaching during my studies. I learned that different students learn in different ways—some are more visual learners, while others learn better through auditory means. To ensure that all my students can get the most out of my classes, I have carefully crafted my teaching style to accommodate all of their individual needs. Glass art is a new art form to many young students, and I'm here to challenge each one of them to unlock their inner artist and create something truly amazing. I'm sure that with the right guidance and a bit of practice, they'll be able to create art pieces that they can be proud of.

At Needham Music, we offer private music lessons, ensemble groups, workshops, and classes for students of all ages in the Needham, Wellesley, Dover, Newton, Brookline, West Roxbury, and Dedham areas. Our highly trained instructors provide a fun, supportive, and inspiring environment and strive to make a positive impact on our students' lives. Our goal is to help our students develop their skills and create a lifelong appreciation of music. We focus on creating confident, well-rounded, and happy kids who will be better prepared for life as adults. Through our classes and lessons, we strive to help our students discover the joys of music and foster a deep understanding and knowledge of it.

At Grey’s Anatomy, we specialize in helping people of all ages form a positive relationship with exercise. Our approach is to use a functional approach to fitness, focusing on optimizing performance, reducing risk/recovery from injury, and weight loss. We also offer specialized postpartum fitness services to help new moms transition into their new life. Our experienced team of professionals are dedicated to creating tailored exercise programs for each individual. Whether you’re just starting out or have been exercising for years, we can help you reach your fitness goals. We believe that every body is capable of achieving greatness and our mission is to equip you with the tools and knowledge to do just that. So, if you’re ready to get healthy and start feeling your best, come to Grey’s Anatomy and let us help you reach your fitness goals.

Alicia Santamaria and her daughter Gemma Joyce have created the Total Eclipse Dance Studio (TEDS) to honor their teacher and mentor Paulette Harwood. After learning from Paulette and teaching for years, Gemma and Alicia felt they wanted to keep Paulette's spirit and knowledge alive. At TEDS, they strive to make the studio a family atmosphere that is welcoming, comfortable, and confident for all ages. The Total Eclipse Dance Studio is led by the dynamic duo of Alicia and Gemma. With a faculty of experienced dancers, TEDS provides its students with plenty of support and a drive to help them reach their goals. The commitment of Alicia and Gemma to create a studio that encourages and celebrates the spirit of dance and the joy of performing has created something truly special. At TEDS, Alicia and Gemma hope to honor Paulette's legacy by instilling the same values of passion, knowledge, and joy that she brought to the dance floor. They want all of their students to be able to experience the love of dance, no matter their age or ability. By creating an environment that encourages everyone to have fun, express themselves, and become the best dancers they can be, TEDS has become a place where dreams can come true.

Located in Connecticut, New Hampshire, Pennsylvania, and Massachusetts, Steve DeMasco’s Studios is one of the fastest growing martial arts schools in the country. With a focus on providing excellence and professional instruction in Shaolin martial arts, DeMasco’s Studios provides a unique opportunity for men, women, and children to learn and benefit from this type of training. DeMasco’s Studios is committed to helping their students gain strength, confidence, and resilience through martial arts. Their mission is to bring the benefits of Shaolin martial arts to people all around the world. If you are interested in giving the martial arts a try, DeMasco’s Studios offers a free lesson so you can see firsthand the amazing benefits of Shaolin martial arts.

Volante Farms is still owned and operated by the fourth generation of the Volante family. This family farm has been providing fresh fruits and vegetables to the Greater Boston area for over a century. It all started when Peter and Caterina Volante, immigrants from Atina, Italy, began the farm on land along Dedham Street in Newton in 1917. Peter, affectionately known as “The Celery King” was famous for his own brand of Pascal Celery, which he marketed throughout the east coast into the early 50s. By the end of the 1950s, the family farmstand, originally a tent structure which soon evolved into a small aluminum roofed building, became the primary source of income for the farm. Today, Volante Farms is still providing fresh fruits and vegetables to the Greater Boston area, and is proud to be a part of the community for over 100 years.

Needham Extended Day Program (NEDP) is the perfect solution for parents who need a safe and enriching environment for their children before and after school. NEDP provides before and after school enrichment, remote learning support every Wednesday, and additional full day programming during vacations for Kindergarten through fifth grade Needham students. Our program is designed to provide an inviting and nurturing environment for children to explore, learn, and develop friendships. At NEDP, we are dedicated to fostering an atmosphere of respect, kindness, and compassion. Our program is overseen by an Executive Director, Assistant Directors, and a Board of Directors comprised of parents with current NEDP students. Each board member volunteers their time and expertise to help inform financial decisions and review policies to further develop programming. We are committed to the success of each and every NEDP student and are proud to offer them a supportive and enriching community that will help them grow and thrive.

For over 40 years, Needham Children's Center (NCC) has been providing exceptional experiences for the children in the Needham community. The focus of NCC is on a play-based curriculum and exploration of the natural world. Through their summer program, children entering grades one through four can enjoy a summer full of fun and adventure. Weekly themes include field trips, sports, arts and crafts, and visits to local playgrounds, pools, and water parks. Past summer destinations have included Ward's Berry Farm, McGolf, The Children's Museum, The Southwick Zoo, Duck Tour, Public Garden and Swan Boats, WooSox game, Fenway tour, and hiking. NCC also offers special events such as “Arts in the Park” sponsored by the Needham community. NAEYC accredited, Needham Children's Center (NCC) offers an exceptional learning experience for children in the Needham community. With a play-based curriculum, exploration of the natural world, and exciting weekly themes, NCC's summer program is sure to provide your child with a summer full of memories. Through sports, field trips, arts and crafts, and visits to local attractions, children entering grades one through four are sure to have a blast. Some of the past summer destinations have included Ward's Berry Farm, McGolf, The Children's Museum, The Southwick Zoo, Duck Tour, Public Garden and Swan Boats, WooSox game, Fenway tour, and hiking. NCC also offers special events such as “Arts in the Park” sponsored by the Needham community. With NCC, your child is sure to have a summer that they'll never forget!

At CRBA, students of all ages can strive to reach their fullest potential while learning classical ballet technique. The academy makes ballet enjoyable and provides a positive experience for all, instilling a love of dance in every student. Many of our students have their sights set on a career in ballet, and CRBA can be a stepping stone in that journey. But even if your child or you just want to take ballet as a hobby, the teachers at the academy will help you to reach the level that is right for you.

At Needham Heights KinderCare, we understand that fun and safety are two of the most important things to any parent. We strive to ensure that every one of our classrooms is a safe and secure space for kids to explore and grow. We also recognize that learning should be an enjoyable and engaging experience, so we incorporate fun activities into our curriculum that promote educational development. Furthermore, Needham Heights KinderCare is proud to have an exemplary health and safety program. We keep our facility clean and safe and prioritize the well-being of each child. Our staff is certified in First Aid and CPR, and we are committed to providing a healthy and safe environment for your child to learn and thrive.

alike, the Newton Music Academy is a one-stop-shop for enriching musical and artistic experiences. Our Needham Studio offers a variety of Dance Classes, Violin, Guitar, and Piano Lessons, as well as Musical Theatre and Choir. With over 300 students from communities including Newton, Needham, Framingham, Natick, Brookline, Wellesley, Westwood, Weston, Boston, West Roxbury, Dover, Waltham and others, the Newton Music Academy is a premier learning destination. At the Newton Music Academy, our experienced team of teachers and instructors strive to provide a creative and inspiring learning environment. Using a variety of techniques such as violin and piano duets, our teachers are dedicated to helping students develop their musicality and confidence. Whether you’re looking to pick up a new instrument or brush up on your skills, the Newton Music Academy has something for everyone. If you’re looking for a top-quality music and dance education experience, look no further than the Newton Music Academy. Our Needham Studio offers a variety of classes and lessons for all ages and levels, from beginners to advanced students. With our experienced team of instructors and our inviting learning environment, the Newton Music Academy is the perfect place to start your journey into music and dance. So come explore the world of music and dance at the Newton Music Academy today!

The Rosemary Recreation Complex (RRC) in Needham is the ideal place to take the family for a day of fun! The Park and Recreation and Public Health Departments have teamed up to create a safe and enjoyable environment for visitors, complete with two community pools. The Pools @ RRC are a great way to cool off in the summer heat, and offer a variety of activities and amenities for all to enjoy. RRC is more than just a place to take a dip in the pool. The complex also offers a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages, including organized sports, classes and programs, and special events. Whether you're looking for a place to relax or have some active fun, RRC has something for everyone. Needham Park and Recreation and Public Health Departments have made it their mission to keep the community safe and healthy while providing an enjoyable experience for all. The Pools @ RRC are a great way to make a splash in the summer months, and the complex is also home to a variety of activities and events that are sure to entertain.

The Needham Community Farm is dedicated to providing our neighbors with the resources they need to grow and learn. We are a 501(c)3 non-profit organization comprised of local volunteers who strive to create a deeper connection between our community, nature, and our food system. We offer a variety of educational opportunities, including classes on sustainable growing and nutrition. We also provide access to our farm for those who experience food insecurity. We are committed to giving our neighbors the opportunity to learn and grow. The Needham Community Farm is a community-focused organization. We are proud to provide our neighbors with the resources they need to lead healthy, productive lives. We believe that by investing in our community, we are investing in a brighter future.

Our Early Childhood Education Program provides a curriculum that is designed to engage and challenge our students in a supportive and caring setting. At Theophany School, we believe in providing our students with the highest quality education that encourages them to reach their full potential. We understand the importance of establishing a strong foundation for learning early on, which is why our program is tailored to provide a variety of exciting and stimulating activities that stimulate the curiosity and imagination of our students. Our experienced and dedicated teachers provide an engaging, safe, and nurturing environment to foster a love of learning, service, and respect in our students. We also strive to create a sense of community, where students are encouraged to be active members in the school community. Our mission is to offer an excellent educational experience while also instilling a strong faith in the Orthodox Christian faith. We want to ensure our students are well-rounded individuals who have the skills, knowledge, and values to thrive and succeed in life. We strive to create an atmosphere of inclusivity and respect for all, which encourages our students to be kind, compassionate, and respectful to all those around them. We believe that by incorporating our faith into our program, we can ensure our students form a strong foundation for their lives and develop into engaged and responsible citizens.

Carter Center for Children is a nonprofit full-day preschool and childcare program serving children 2.3 - 6 years old and their families. Our professional staff provides children with a nurturing and creative environment where they can play, learn and grow. Each day is special to a child and Carter Center for Children is sensitive to the individual needs of children. Children are active learners and need to explore their environment at their own pace and have control over their independent play. Carter strongly supports a child’s right to play in the preschool years and believes learning evolves from this play. As children grow, Carter provides more structured, teacher-directed opportunities to promote pre-math and pre-literacy skills. Carter follows the curriculum frameworks established by the Massachusetts Department of Education. Carter has also collaborated with the Needham Public Schools to implement the Responsive Classroom approach in the preschool environment. This promotes social, emotional, and pre-academic learning. We strive to support parents through all the developmental stages of the preschool years, working together to form a strong home/school partnership.

At the Commonwealth Learning Center, we are committed to providing the highest quality of instruction, support, and guidance. Our experienced staff is dedicated to fostering a safe, diverse, and inclusive learning environment. We are dedicated to helping students of all backgrounds reach their academic goals. The Commonwealth Learning Center is a respected nonprofit organization that has been a leading educational resource for more than three decades. We offer one-on-one, tailored academic support for students of any age in a variety of subject areas. Our tutorial and educational evaluation services help individuals recognize their personal learning style, boost their skills, and reach their full potential. We specialize in aiding those with learning differences, including dyslexia, dysgraphia, ADHD, and executive function challenges. Our team of experienced professionals is devoted to developing a positive and inclusive learning atmosphere, with the aim of helping students of all backgrounds reach their educational objectives. At the Commonwealth Learning Center, we prioritize offering the highest quality of instruction, support, and guidance. We are dedicated to creating an environment of acceptance and respect, providing every individual with the opportunity to realize their potential.

At Camp Aranu’tiq, our mission is to empower transgender and non-binary youth and their families to build confidence, resilience, and community. With up to 140 campers per session from 42 states and six countries, our campers have the opportunity to form life-long bonds and discover a sense of belonging. Harbor Camps provide an inclusive and safe environment, where campers can be their true and authentic selves. At Camp Aranu’tiq, we are dedicated to helping transgender and non-binary youth and their families build confidence, resilience, and community. With up to 140 campers per session from 42 states and six countries, our campers have the opportunity to form life-long bonds and find a sense of belonging. Harbor Camps provide a safe and supportive atmosphere, allowing campers to express themselves freely and build strong and meaningful connections. At Camp Aranu’tiq, we strive to create an atmosphere of acceptance, understanding, and growth. We work to empower transgender and non-binary youth and their families by fostering confidence, resilience, and community. Our campers come from 42 states and six countries, and up to 140 campers per session have the chance to make lifelong friendships and feel like they belong. Harbor Camps provide a safe and supportive space for campers to be their true selves and share their stories.

At Engineering Discovery, we believe that young minds should have access to engineering education. Our group of students from Olin College of Engineering in Needham, MA holds events on our campus and travels to schools and shelters with our materials to mentor and teach engineering concepts. Through our efforts, students learn math, science, engineering design, and creativity. At Engineering Discovery, we are committed to helping the community. Our team of students from Olin College of Engineering in Needham, MA work to spread engineering education to K-12 students. We organize events on our campus and visit different schools and shelters with our materials to mentor and teach engineering concepts. By doing so, we are able to provide insight into math, science, engineering design, and creativity.

At Kumon, we understand that every student learns differently, so we have designed our Math Program to meet the needs of each individual. We emphasize individualized learning, allowing your child to move through the program at their own pace in order to maximize their potential. Our program provides a strong academic foundation as well as critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are essential for success. Our teachers closely monitor each student’s progress to ensure they have a complete understanding of each concept before moving on. We are committed to helping your child become focused, motivated and self-reliant. With the skills they gain from this program, your child has the potential to achieve whatever they desire.

Parents want the best for their children, and with iD Tech they get more. Our on-campus summer programs are packed with exclusive features to ensure that kids have a summer filled with exploration, learning, and fun. From personalized instruction to all-inclusive tech exploration, our program provides an unforgettable experience. At iD Tech, your child will have access to the latest technology, expert instruction, and personalized guidance. Our hands-on program empowers kids to express their creativity in a safe and supportive environment. They'll be able to learn skills that can prepare them for a successful future, no matter what their interests are. With iD Tech, you get more than just a summer camp experience. Our exclusive package includes exclusive features like small class sizes, personalized instruction, and world-class tech exploration. We offer a unique opportunity for your child to explore their passions and interests while also gaining valuable skills and experience.

For the last 24 years, our program has brought joy to over 21,000 children by teaching them how to sew! We strive to make every child feel proud of their accomplishments, while having a fun and memorable experience. Our helpful staff are also skilled in customizing the lessons to best fit each individual child’s learning style. We make sure to teach a variety of skills, such as how to properly operate a sewing machine, how to select fabrics and patterns, as well as hand sewing techniques. With our program, children gain a range of useful skills that will stay with them for many years.

The Art Spirit Studio offers classes for students of all ages and skill levels. Youth and adult classes age 9 and up are available to grow and develop art skills. The studio's bright and open space creates a welcoming and inspiring environment. With experienced and knowledgeable instruction, students can improve their drawing and painting skills and explore different mediums. Creating and expanding a portfolio is also an option. Jules Ellison, the studio's instructor, is passionate about fostering creativity and developing skills in her students. She has a wealth of knowledge and experience that she brings to each class. With over 25 years of professional experience, Jules holds a B.A. in Fine Arts and a Masters in Art Teaching. The Art Spirit Studio provides the perfect opportunity to learn a variety of art techniques and explore new mediums.

At Temple Beth Shalom, we are proud of our warm and vibrant community. We are inspired by the richness of Jewish tradition, and strive to foster friendship, grow through our encounters with Jewish wisdom, culture, and spirituality, foster a culture of responsibility, and experience the joy and strength that come from sharing our lives with others. We are an open and inclusive community, welcoming people of all backgrounds, beliefs, and abilities. Together, we share our stories, learn from one another, and celebrate the strength of our community.

At Needham Knowledge Beginnings, we prioritize your child's safety and health. Maintaining a clean and safe environment is a top priority. We also offer a wide range of activities and programs that promote physical fitness and healthy eating habits. Our teachers are trained in proper hygiene and sanitation practices, and our facility is equipped with the latest safety equipment. Our experienced and knowledgeable team of teachers are dedicated to providing a high-quality education that will give your child the best possible start. Our curriculum is designed to stimulate your child's curiosity and creativity while building their knowledge and skills. We offer a variety of activities that help foster problem-solving, critical thinking, and communication, so that your child can grow intellectually, emotionally, and socially.

At Carter Nursery School, we strive to create a nurturing and supportive setting that encourages each child to grow emotionally, socially, and intellectually. We provide a safe and consistent environment for our students to play and learn, as well as plenty of opportunities to build their self-esteem and independence. We also invite families to become part of our school through our Helping Parent program, which allows them to be an active partner in their child’s learning journey. With our unique approach to early childhood education, we’re dedicated to helping children gain the skills they need to become caring and responsible adults.

The goal is to nurture the joy of learning in each child. Needham Montessori School is proud to continue the rich tradition of providing an unparalleled early childhood education experience. As a full member school of the American Montessori Society, we are dedicated to upholding the educational philosophy of Dr. Maria Montessori and the guidelines of The Department of Early Education and Care (EEC). Our curriculum covers Everyday Living, Sensorial, Language, Math, Geography, Science and Art. We recognize that parents and caregivers play an essential role in the development of the whole child, and we strive to partner with them to foster a joy of learning in each student. We believe that our approach to early childhood education sets a higher standard and provides children from 15 months to 6 years with a unique learning opportunity.

At Pine Village, we are committed to helping children become independent, creative thinkers with a love for learning. We strive to create a safe and nurturing environment where children are encouraged to explore their individual talents and interests. Our bilingual curriculum and culturally diverse classes give our children a holistic view of the world. We believe that this type of learning prepares our students to become well-rounded global citizens.

At the Charles River YMCA, we are committed to helping individuals and families in Needham and the surrounding communities live healthier and happier lives. Our two locations provide a variety of programs and activities to help people of all ages and abilities stay active and engaged. At 863 Great Plain Avenue, we offer lap and family swim, water fitness, youth swim and sports programming, and limited fitness equipment. At 380 Chestnut Street, you can find our fitness center, group exercise classes, personal training, and Child Watch. Our staff are highly trained professionals, dedicated to helping our members reach their health and wellness goals. At the Charles River YMCA, we strive to make our programs and services accessible to everyone in the community. We offer a wide range of membership packages and financial assistance to ensure that everyone can take advantage of all the resources we have to offer. Join us and discover the many ways we can help you achieve a healthier lifestyle.

Goldfish Swim School offers parents and children the opportunity to learn how to swim from as young as four months old. Our welcoming atmosphere creates a safe and fun learning environment with a tropical vibe. Everything from the brightly colored walls to the tiki cabanas and surfboard benches provides a unique and inviting atmosphere. Our pool area is always abuzz with the sounds of children learning to swim and kick with the help of our hands-on swimming instruction. At Goldfish Swim School, we want to offer parents and children the best experience possible. We want to create a safe and comfortable learning environment that encourages children to explore and grow. Our instructors are certified, experienced and passionate about teaching your child how to swim. We strive to make each visit to Goldfish Swim School a memorable one with our tropical-style setting and fun atmosphere. Goldfish Swim School is dedicated to providing a fun and safe learning experience for both parents and children. Our instructors are highly trained and experienced, and our island-style atmosphere is designed to make each visit an enjoyable one. From the moment you walk in the door, you will be welcomed into an inviting environment with brightly colored walls, tiki cabanas and surfboard benches. Our pool area is full of children learning to kick and swim with the help of our hands-on instruction. We strive to make each visit to Goldfish Swim School a Golden Experience.

At our child and teen therapy practice in the Greater Boston area, we are dedicated to helping children and teenagers live their best and happiest lives. Our Needham office boasts a dynamic range of services, from social skills group therapy to individual counseling, that are designed to engage kids in creative and fun ways. Our expert team of passionate therapists understands the need for children to find a safe space to be their whole selves. We prioritize individualizing our services based on the child’s needs, so that every child can get the care they deserve. Our goal is to help kids feel connected and fulfilled.