best 130 programs in Maplewood, NJ

Dear Families, Welcome to the wonderful world of Swift Nature Camp an overnight camp for boys and girls ages 6-15 located in the beautiful Northwoods of Wisconsin. I’m Lonnie, the Camp Director, and I’m thrilled to share what makes SNC such a special place for kids and families alike. For nearly 30 years, our mission has been to create an environment where children can grow, discover, and make lifelong memories. Here at camp, we focus on friendship, personal development, and a deep connection to nature—all in a fun, supportive, and adventurous setting. All this without cell phones One of the things that sets Swift Nature Camp apart is our focus on fostering independence and confidence. Whether it’s trying a new activity like canoeing, taking on a leadership role in a group project, or simply navigating life away from home, camp provides endless opportunities for personal growth. We celebrate each camper’s unique personality and encourage them to step outside their comfort zone in a safe and nurturing way. Seeing kids gain new skills and pride in their accomplishments is one of the most rewarding parts of what we do. For our youngest campers, Discovery Camp is an especially magical experience. Designed only for first-time campers ages 6-12, this shorter program gives kids a chance to experience the joys of camp life in a way that’s just right for them. It’s amazing to watch these kids try new things—from learning about the natural world to singing campfire songs—and leave camp with big smiles and even bigger stories to tell. Discovery Camp is often the beginning of a long and cherished relationship with SNC, and we’re so proud to see those first-time campers grow into confident and capable young people. Another cornerstone of Swift Nature Camp is our connection to the environment. We believe that nature isn’t just a backdrop for camp; it’s a teacher, a playground, and a source of endless wonder. Through hands-on activities like pond studies, wildlife observation, and outdoor adventures, campers develop an appreciation for the natural world that stays with them long after camp ends. The Camp Zoo is always a favorite, campers can even adopt a pet while at camp.Our goal is to inspire kids to become curious, mindful stewards of the environment. At Swift Nature Camp, there’s never a dull day! With hundreds of land and water activities, campers are always engaged and excited. On land, some favorites include the Lego Cabin, Arts & Crafts, Archery, and exploring the Nature Center. On the water, campers learn Canoeing, Fishing, and Swimming, but the absolute favorites are Tubing behind the boat and jumping off the Water Trampoline. Never is there a dull day because every day is packed with fun, adventure, and opportunities to try something new. Of course, none of this would be possible without the amazing friendships that form here. SNC is a place where kids truly feel like they belong. Campers and counselors alike bring warmth, kindness, and enthusiasm to everything we do, creating a strong sense of community. Whether it’s cheering each other on during a game, collaborating on a creative project, or sharing laughs around the campfire, the bonds formed at Swift Nature Camp are something truly special. Thank you for entrusting us with your children. It’s an honor to be part of their journey and to help create memories that will last a lifetime. If you have any questions or just want to chat about camp, don’t hesitate to reach out. I can’t wait to see what the next camp season holds and to welcome your family to another amazing summer at Swift Nature Camp.

Maplewood Karate Self-Defense offers affordable martial arts classes for all ages, from four years old to adult. One of our most popular classes - “Karate Littles” - offer classes for children ages four to five years of age. In this fun fitness class, students learn real techniques they can comprehend for their age level. Also learned is good balance and proper tumbling to prepare them for the next level in child development. For older students Ages 6 to 8 and 9+, after school Karate & self-defense classes have become very popular, so we have added additional classes for all age groups so that students can train with us and still have time for other sports or activities.

Our atmosphere is welcoming and supportive, providing the perfect environment for learning and growth. Our classes are fun and engaging, so you can learn in a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere. With our highly trained instructors and unique atmosphere, you can be sure that you’ll have the best possible experience with us. We provide classes for all ages and levels, from beginners to experienced dancers. You can also take advantage of our events and workshops for an even more comprehensive experience. Inspirational Dance will help you reach your goals in a safe and enjoyable environment.

Ms. Johnson's passion for encouraging children to create dances led to the founding of the Lydia Johnson Dance School in 1998. Starting with just five young dancers in a single Choreography Workshop, the school has since grown to 130 students. With years of experience in choreographing, Ms Johnson has developed a curriculum which provides an in-depth and structured approach, constantly revised and expanded to meet the interests and needs of the creative young dancers. The school also offers a unique Dance Camp, as well as the Student Company, allowing students to explore and perform their own works. The Lydia Johnson Dance School has earned acclaim for its warm community of dancers of all ages, its family-centered sharing of work and its focus on excellence and creativity. Ms Johnson's own children have benefitted from the school, with all three attending South Orange/Maplewood schools and graduating from Columbia High School in Maplewood. Phoebe is now a law student at Temple Law, Evan is a MSW therapist in Brooklyn, and Zander is a filmmaker in LA.

Our incredible Martial Arts Program in Maplewood, NJ has something for everyone. Children gain rock solid self-confidence, build unshakable self-esteem, and hone razor sharp focus, while adults get fit, improve flexibility and quickly eliminate stress!

At American Jiu Jitsu, we believe in fostering healthy self esteem and a positive attitude in our students. Our fun and disciplined learning environment emphasizes the importance of focus, discipline, and goal setting. Our staff will help kids learn practical self defense and anti-bully techniques that will stay with them for years to come. Building self confidence in our kids is essential. That’s why American Jiu Jitsu is committed to helping kids develop healthy self esteem and a positive attitude. Our classes provide a fun and disciplined learning environment that encourages students to practice focus, discipline, and goal setting. We also teach practical self defense and anti-bully techniques that will empower kids to stand up for themselves. At American Jiu Jitsu, we understand the importance of promoting healthy self esteem and a positive attitude in our students. Through our fun and disciplined learning environment, we teach kids practical self defense and anti-bully techniques that help them stay safe. We also focus on helping students learn focus, discipline, and goal setting, giving them the skills and confidence they need to thrive.

Express Yourself Studios is an art studio and art gallery. Since 2008 it has been dedicated to being an outlet for children and adults to express themselves creatively via classes in the arts onsite, off-site and virtually. As well as a design studio for apparel, home , consumer goods and more. ​The Studio offers Pinot & Pottery, Cocktails & Canvas, Coffee & Canvas, and Wine Glass Painting Workshops for adults and weekly Art Classes and a Summer Art Workshop, for children; as well as hosts Private Art Workshops, Birthday Parties and other art events throughout the year. For more information about the studio visit www.expressyourselfstudiosllc.com or read Express Yourself Studios’ Blog to learn about the Studios’ events & happenings!

In 2014, Le Parc Preschool was created initially through the teaching and philosophy of Jean Alexander. Though retired for over two decades Mrs. Alexander used a very successful form of integrated teaching that was affectionately coined "The Miko Method" for preschoolers. Le Parc Place is an integrated Preschool and indoor enrichment center for children. At Le Parc we want every young person and their family to be a part of the Le Parc experience. Appreciation for all of life’s experiences are encompassed into our philosophy and our approach to early childhood development. We enjoy creating innovative and unique ways for young ones to grow both academically, socially and artistically.​ The MIKO (Mastery, Independence, Knowledge and Optimism) Method's primary focus is identifying and expanding a child’s individual strengths within a stimulating, nurturing and relaxed learning environment. Children grow and learn through socialization, recognition, investigation, retention, repetition and creative process, which we encourage through ongoing exploration and exposure.

Design District is a unique art school focused on teaching the fundamentals of drawing and painting, while introducing kids and teens to art, culture, and history from all around the world. We strive to foster a love and appreciation for all types of art, and to create a space for young people to express their own creativity and individuality. We are based in an art-filled home studio in Maplewood, NJ. Classes are small or semi-private (maximum of 6 kids to a class), and for ages 5 and up. Students receive personal attention and productive feedback. We work to create a safe and welcoming environment for everyone, and nurture inclusivity and consiousness with everything we teach.

The South Orange-Maplewood Adult School was founded in 1933 during the Great Depression – a beacon of hope where the community could gather and everyone could afford to take classes. We are the oldest operating Adult School in NJ and were named a Local Legacy in 2000 by the Library of Congress. We strive to keep our class prices down so that we continue the tradition that our school was founded upon – a community school where people can gather to learn, stay informed and be entertained. More than 150 courses and lectures are offered in the fall and spring, with a modified schedule in the summer. These courses enrich the mind, exercise the body and feed the soul. Choices include art, music, business and finance, fitness and recreation, languages and technology. There is now increased programming for children during the school year which includes computer science classes and Suzuki violin lessons. The South Orange-Maplewood Adult School Association is a community-based school for all ages dedicated to lifelong learning. Our mission is to inspire, engage, empower and connect to our inclusive and diverse community through innovative education. Through a generous meeting of the minds and spirit, we strive for a better world.