Academic Programs for Kids

Fun and educational STEM, robotics, and coding programs using LEGO bricks and technology. Covers engineering, robotics, coding, science, and arts through after-school programs, summer camps, and workshops. Half-day and full-day camp formats available.

Play-Well TEKnologies LEGO building and engineering program offered through Lower Merion Township Recreation. Children explore physics, engineering, and creative problem-solving through hands-on LEGO projects. Available in seasonal sessions.

Shining Knights Chess Club for kids offered through Lower Merion Township Recreation. Children learn chess strategy, critical thinking, and sportsmanship in a fun, welcoming environment. Available to beginners and experienced players alike.

Merion Friends Nursery School in Merion Station provides a nurturing Quaker-inspired early childhood program for children ages 2–5. The curriculum emphasizes play-based learning, social-emotional development, and community values. Small class sizes ensure individualized attention for every child.

The Bala Cynwyd Library Chess Club meets weekly after school, welcoming players of all skill levels from beginners to tournament competitors. Volunteer instructors teach openings, tactics, and endgame strategy in a friendly community setting. Monthly rapid tournaments are held for players wishing to test their skills.

Science Explorers hosts after-school enrichment programs at Exton elementary schools, focusing on experiments in chemistry, biology, and earth science for ages 6–12. Each themed session is hands-on, inquiry-based, and aligned with PA state science standards. Programs run in 6- to 8-week blocks throughout the school year.

Newtown Square Junior Chess Club meets weekly at the branch library for players of all skill levels ages 5–16. USCF-rated instructors provide puzzles, lessons, and guided games to build critical thinking and pattern recognition. Monthly rating tournaments are held on-site for students wishing to earn official chess ratings.

Gladwyne Montessori School offers after-school enrichment classes in math exploration, language arts, and creative expression for children ages 3–12. Programs use authentic Montessori materials in small-group settings to foster intrinsic motivation and deep understanding. Enrichment sessions are available on a term-by-term basis.

Before and after school care program designed to develop the total child with emphasis on educational, physical, emotional, and social skills.

Montessori-based early learning program that develops the total child with emphasis on educational, physical, emotional, and social skills.

A kids program in Royersford, PA focused on building confidence and communication skills. Helps children develop their voice and self-expression.

A one-day workshop in Philadelphia for teens focused on developing a growth mindset and time management skills. Designed to help young people build success habits for school and life.

A one-day financial literacy workshop for teens in Philadelphia, PA covering money management and personal finance fundamentals. Equips young people with essential financial skills for the future.

A summer program designed to introduce young people to entrepreneurship concepts. Held at the Spaces Hale Building in Philadelphia.

A one-day session teaching teens about financial risk management concepts. Multiple session dates available at 123 S Broad Street in Philadelphia.

A one-day public speaking workshop for young people held in Philadelphia. Multiple session dates available to help youth build communication confidence.

A one-day confidence-building public speaking workshop for teens with multiple session dates available. Held at 123 S Broad St in Philadelphia.

A one-day workshop helping teens develop a success mindset and time management skills. Multiple dates available at 123 S Broad Street in Philadelphia.

Childcare, preschool, Montessori, and kindergarten programs providing a warm, supportive environment focused on educational, physical, emotional, and social development.

A book club for early readers featuring a group read-aloud of 'We Are In A Book' by Mo Willems followed by a fun story-inspired activity. Open to children in kindergarten through 2nd grade.

Children get a 10-minute session reading aloud to a dog, a fun and supportive way to build reading confidence. Kids should bring a book from home.

Teen volunteer Sebastian leads a Spanish language practice program for kids to converse with native Spanish speakers. Open to children in grades 4th through 8th.