With back-to-school already here for some Richmond area families and only a few days or weeks away for others, most of us are looking forward to the school year and the peace of mind that comes with knowing are kids are in a structured learning environment for a good portion of the day. However, there are still those long hours after school that we have to consider. Fortunately, the Greater Richmond area is filled with incredible resources for after school care, academic enrichment, sports, and more.
Whether you have a child that needs a little extra help with certain subjects or you have a kid with a passion for a particular sport, creative art, or musical instrument, our latest guide to After School Activities in Richmond will help you find a program that will not only suit your child’s needs, but fit your busy schedule, as well. Best of all, we’ve found programs to suit just about every age group, from early learners through high school.
Take a look at our guide by scrolling through all of our after school offerings, or use the handy quicklinks below to skip to your desired category. And, of course, if you know of an after school program or activity that you think should be added to the list, let us know about it at cs@richmondmom.com!
Quick links:
Dance Classes
Sports Programs and Sports Skills Classes
Music Classes
Creative Arts and Activities
Academic and Tutoring
Multi-Activity Programs
Childcare Centers and Community-Led Programs
Special Needs Programs
DANCE CLASSES:
The Dance Studio takes pride in being known as Richmond’s traditional dance school. Join in the fun, joy, and discipline of the art of dance and find out what keeps dancers coming back year after year.
Grace Arts is an organization making sure that the arts are available to all children in Richmond, regardless of their family’s financial situation. Through classes in ballet, tap, jazz, hip-hop, contemporary, drama, art, and more, Grace Arts is fostering creativity, teaching kids to believe in themselves, and building a community…one affordable class at a time. They serve individuals ages two to adult, and welcome anyone and everyone into their family! Many classes are available after 4 pm to allow for school schedules.
Heart of Ireland School of Dance is the choice for Irish dance instruction in Richmond. Located in Midlothian, they offer solo and ceili classes for all ages and abilities. All weekday classes are offered after 5 pm to accommodate school schedules and Saturday classes are available, as well.
Henrico PAL Dance Program is a FREE Dance Program for girls ages 6-16 years old sponsored by the Henrico Police Athletic League (PAL). Participants will learn fundamental dance warm-ups, stretches, techniques, and routines. All participants should have a real interest in dance, be willing to learn and be dedicated to attending classes. Dance Program takes place on Thursdays from 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm at Adams Elementary School.
J’Adore Dance Studio accepts students from the age of three up to the age of 18. Whether you have a beginner or an experienced dancer looking to further their skills, J’Adore has classes that can be taken during after school hours Monday through Friday at their convenient Midlothian location.
Liquid Performance Arts takes your dancer to the next level with a focus on training dancers through superior technique and showmanship. Their methods are designed to help your children pursue their dreams through well thought-out class offerings, flexible schedules, dedicated training, and FUN.
Regency Dance Academy was voted “Best Dance Studio for Children and Adults” in Richmond by Virginia by Richmond Magazine and “Favorite Dance Lessons” in the Family Favorites Issue by Style Weekly. They offer classes in Ballet, Pointe, Tap, Jazz, Hip Hop, Lyrical, and Modern/Contemporary.
Richmond City Parks and Rec Dance Programs are available year-round and offer exciting, affordable dance classes for ages three years and up, with beginner through advanced levels classes. All instructors are fully qualified professionals dedicated to creating a truly caring environment for the younger child and a more challenging curriculum for older students. The program also includes the City Dance Theatre, an award-winning ensemble of approximately 15 young men and women.
Richmond Dance Center offers quality instruction in Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Dance Exercise and Creative Movement for children and adults. Since they began in 1976, they have been regarded on local, regional and national levels and were voted Best Dance Studio for Children in 2015 by Richmond Magazine. Full-year, fall and spring semester instruction is available with an annual recital in May.
School of Richmond Ballet offers superior training for young people who aspire to have a professional ballet career, as well as those students who simply wish to enrich their lives through dance. Classes for school-age children are available in the afternoon to accommodate school schedules.
SOUL Aerial Performing Arts Center presents SOUL Stars… a place where children thrive, creativity is ignited and every family’s experience is magical. SOUL Aerial & Performing Arts Center, located in the heart of RVA is a one of a kind, exclusive performing arts studio offering aerial arts, dance and performing arts classes. Fall classes start on September 10th, 2018, for ages 1 – 18 and registration is designed to make a busy parent’s life easy. Classes include Silks, Lyra, Static Trapeze, Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Contemporary, Acro and more! Call us today to chat with our friendly staff or visit our website for complete details.
TwirlyQ Baton and Flag Twirling Team offers baton twirling classes in private and group sessions. Their season runs from September until April and includes an end-of-season recital, as well as special performances throughout the year. Whether you are interested in learning figure-eights or becoming Miss Majorette of America, TwirlyQ is the baton club for you!
The Village Dance Studio believes that every child should have the opportunity to grow and develop in ways that only the arts can provide. Located on Parham Road in Richmond, their program educates, challenges and inspires in a personal, non-competitive atmosphere of learning and fun. Classes are available for boys and girls, ages 3 -18, and features both winter and spring recitals.
The West End Academy of Dance offers programs in ballet, modern, hip-hop, jazz and tap for ages 3 ½ to adult. Located on Patterson Road, WEAD prides itself on being “your local neighborhood studio,” offering dance classes for all levels of experience with flexible class times to facilitate school schedules.
For more dance classes and dance programs in the Richmond area, visit Richmond Mom’s Guide Dance Classes and Studios in Richmond.
SPORTS PROGRAMS AND SPORTS SKILLS CLASSES:
ACAC Fitness and Wellness Centers allow kids to finish homework, have a snack and enjoy a wide array of after school activities including swimming, crafts, and sports activities. Their after school programs are available to members, as well as non-members, and provide transportation from select schools, including:
- Bettie Weaver Elementary
- Bon Air Elementary (after school only, due to school schedule)
- Crestwood (NEW for 2019 – 2020)
- Greenfield Elementary
- Robious Elementary
- Robious Middle
With both before and after school care available for many area schools, ACAC gives children access to their Adventure Central space, which includes a game room, media room, creative center, theater and clubhouse, as well as outdoor turf, playgrounds and a pavilion.
Aerial East Gymnastics prides itself on being Mechanicsville’s only full-service gymnastics facility. As part of their class offerings, they provide specific classes geared towards school-aged children that allow kids to explore movement, tumbling, and flexibility in an after school environment. Children will be divided into classes based on age and ability level.
CORE Kids Academy offers a wide variety of gymnastics classes for every age group, skill set, and schedule. Their lesson plans can be easily modified to the individual needs of each child, allowing instructors to incorporate students of all gymnastics abilities and backgrounds. Classes are grouped by age and skills are taught through personal coaching in a group setting.
Endorphin Fitness provides personal and team coaching for kids ages 5-19. Their team training consists of the Youth Development Team for ages 5-15 and a Junior Elite Team for ages 13-19. Both programs are coached by nationally recognized coaches and are designed to develop fitness, performance, and self-confidence. The Youth Development Team is open to all levels and provides flexibility to choose between one to five practices per week. The Junior Elite Team is for athletes who have met qualification standards and desire to prepare for national level competitions.
Grandmaster Dong’s Studio teaches children physical fitness, weight control, self-control, increased concentration, and respect for others through their Tae Kwon Do programs at four Richmond area locations. Family classes are also available at flexible times.
Gym Quest Gymnastics offers gymnastics programs for youth of all ages and developmental skill levels; from Preschool Classes through Advanced and Special Needs Classes, Competitive Teams to Adult Tumbling. We believe that every child deserves a chance; to become an athlete, learn citizenship skills, excel, and have fun along the way!
Henrico PAL: Free Open Gym Night takes place every Wednesday night from 6pm to 8pm and provides youth (ages 9 to 17 years old) with a safe haven to play basketball, a variety of other indoor sports, and hang out with other well-behaved youths. Registration is required.
i9 Sports is the first and fastest growing franchise of youth sports leagues in the United States. They offer youth sports leagues, camps, and clinics for boys and girls ages 3-14 in today’s most popular sports such as flag football, soccer, basketball, and baseball. To achieve their mission of helping kids succeed in life through sports, i9 Sports provides a youth sports experience unlike any other, teaching the importance of good sportsmanship on the field and in life.
Inspire Martial Arts and Fitness offers a fun, structured before and after school program designed to give kids the skill they need to succeed. For hundreds of years, martial arts has been used to not only teach children self-defense, but to give them the tools they need for success in life. Your child will learn about setting goals and achieving them. They’ll learn to appreciate, respect and show it to others. Most importantly, they’ll have a ton of fun, make friends, and enrich their lives. Transportation is provided for the following schools: Alberta Smith Elementary, Clover Hill Elementary, Crenshaw Elementary, Evergreen Elementary, Jacob’s Road Elementary, Spring Run Elementary, Swift Creek Elementary, Providence Elementary, Winterpock Elementary, Bailey Bridge Middle School, Swift Creek Middle School, and Tomahawk Creek Middle School.
Lobs & Lessons – Mary and Frances Youth Center at VCU provides after school programs for up to 40 youth a day, offering after school programming five days a week. Youth in the program are participants with one of several community partner organizations. Participants come to the center on selected days during the week, with some youth coming to the center once a week and others attending twice a week. The after school program gives students the opportunity to participate on and off the tennis court during their time at Lobs & Lessons.
Martial Arts of West End offers after school programs that focus on building confidence and self-discipline, improving grades, teaching respect for self and others, and developing a “Yes I can!” attitude. They provide transportation from your child’s school to their facility, as well as time for training, study, fun activities and more.
Martial Arts World of Chesterfield teaches focus, respect, discipline, and self-esteem in a safe environment that will prepare your child for success both in and out of the classroom. Their unique after school program provides transportation from your child’s school to their facility and offers snack time, structured study time, skill development, activities and daily martial arts training. Full-Day, Winter and Spring Break Camps are also available. Martial arts training has been proven to improve listening skills, self-discipline, test-taking, and grades. Other Martial Arts World locations include:
Martial Arts World of Chester
Martial Arts World of Clover Hill
Martial Arts World of Glen Allen
Martial Arts World of Hopewell
Overtime Athletics provides a wide array of after school sports programs to enhance your child’s athleticism, teach teamwork and build self-confidence. They work with your parent organization or school administration to set-up before and after school programs with online registration and payment capabilities for families. They can have flyers created for your school and dropped off in bundles in each classroom – all free of charge to the school. See what programs are available or learn how to get your school involved here.
Own the Goal provides a consistent environment in which goalkeepers can develop the technical ability, tactical awareness, and confidence that it takes to impact the game on a consistent basis. Own The Goal provides goalkeeper camps, goalkeeper clinics, and private goalkeeper training to soccer players in the Northern and Central Virginia area. For more information on any of these opportunities please contact help@own-the-goal.com.
Peak Experiences Indoor Rock Climbing Center offers youth team programs for all age groups (7-17 years old) based around the fundamentals of rock climbing with a focus on individual goal setting and personal improvement in a team-oriented environment! Enrollment is rolling, so any season is the perfect time to discover the great indoors and get climbing! And now with two locations (Midlothian and Richmond), it’s easier than ever to take advantage of these incredible programs. See the complete list of their youth programs to find the right one for you.
River City Youth Fitness strives to create an environment where children can develop a positive attitude towards physical activities and create healthy habits that will last a lifetime. RCYF has a wide selection of gymnastics classes for children of all ages, including specific classes designed for school-aged children.
Richmond City Youth Programs are offered by the city’s Parks and Recreation Department. They offer programs for city youth in fitness, athletics, aquatics, and dance. Athletic programs include dance, football, baseball, softball, basketball, soccer, boxing, cheerleading, tennis, and track, and field.
Richmond Goalkeeping Academy provides exclusive training for goalkeepers with both private and small group training, as well as goalkeeping specific strength and conditioning group and private training, strategic classroom studies, camps, clinics, special meet and greets with professional soccer players and colleges, college recruiting mentorships, and more. Click here to learn more about their programs or to register.
Richmond Ice Zone in Chesterfield offers hockey and skating instruction for youth ages 4-18 with classes available for all skill levels, including parent/child options. Trial skating lessons are available and many camps are available throughout the year in addition to regular classes.
Richmond Olympiad has four area locations that offer multi-level gymnastics classes from Intro Gymnastics classes to Medalist Programs for advanced gymnasts. See specific class schedules for each location here:
West End / Gaskins Centre
Hanover Industrial Park
Trade Road / Southside
Chesterfield Airport
Richmond Traditional Martial Arts serves the Hanover / Mechanicsville area with an after school activities program that provides school pick-up, homework supervision, a snack and an organized break period – all in addition to daily martial arts training!
Richmond Twisters offers All-Star Competitive Cheerleading, as well as team and recreational gymnastics classes in a fun, positive, instructional environment. Gymnastics classes are available for ages 1 ½ to 18 to accommodate all skill levels. All classes, including Mommy & Me and preschool classes are available after 3:30 pm to facilitate work and school schedules.
Skate Nation Plus in Glen Allen (Short Pump) offers hockey and skating instruction for youth ages 4-18 with classes available for all skill levels, including parent/child options. Trial skating lessons are available and many camps are available throughout the year, in addition to regular classes.
Twist Gymnastics emphasizes physical fitness, strength, and flexibility to allow students to master basic gymnastics skills and progress to intermediate and advanced levels. With both recreational and team levels available, girls of all ages and skill levels can enjoy the benefits of gymnastics as a fun, after school activity.
Upward Sports’ programs are available nationwide for a variety of sports including soccer, flag football, basketball, baseball, and cheerleading. Their recreational and performance sports’ programs teach sports skills and values and with family-friendly schedules. Click here to locate a Richmond area Upward Sports’ program for your desired sport.
Virginia Outside After School Enrichment provides on-site and off-site outdoor adventures in the Greater Richmond area. Their programs include enrichment programs on-site at local schools for mountain biking, fishing, and outdoor adventure. These programs are completed in partnership with the schools. But if your school doesn’t offer their programs, your child can still participate in off-site after school activities for mountain biking, fishing, and outdoor adventure. All programs offer a guided environment that allows kids to have fun while discovering their own abilities, creating self-esteem and building character. After school programs provide transportation from school and to various outdoor sites. They currently have programs planned at Steward School, St. Michael’s School, and Fox Elementary in Richmond. Click here to learn more.
MUSIC AND INSTRUMENTS:
Bach to Rock makes learning music fun. Private and group lessons are available for any instrument, any style, for any age. Students can join a band and take advantage of supervised band-coaching sessions, which, in turn, lead to public performances, recording sessions, and Battles of the Bands.
BGA School of Music offers transportation to and from school, piano lessons, drum lessons, dance lessons, homework assistance, a snack, and more! To ensure that every child has access to their before and after school program, BGA School of Music accepts social services.
Center For Creative Arts hosts private lessons in guitar, piano, drums, flute, violin, voice and more at their Shady Grove United Methodist Church location in the Far West End. In addition to music, they also provide lessons and training in ballet for young dancers (ages 3 ½ to 6 years), as well as chess classes and art lessons for children and teens. Lessons are taught by professionals who work with each student to meet their artistic goals and develop their skills.
Friends Association for Children offers music education as a weekly component of their early Child Development Program in toddler and pre-school classes. However, they also provide school-age children with free private music lesson instruction or the opportunity to participate in various dance, sign-language, and handbell groups. Lessons are available at both their Jackson Ward and their Church Hill locations.
Greater Richmond Children’s Choir offers boys and girls ages 8-18 the opportunity to excel through the graduated study and performance of high-quality choral music with the Richmond area’s finest vocal ensemble for children.
Greater Richmond School of Music, located in Mechanicsville, offers private lessons and group classes for children and teens in many areas of study in their main studio, as well as Richmond lessons and classes on the Southside at Saint Michael’s Episcopal School and in the Museum District at Saint Benedict School. GRSC also has a comprehensive homeschooling program, in addition to extra-curricular music education at various schools in the Richmond area (including the West End). Call 804-442-6158 for more information.
Greenspring International Academy of Music offers beginner to advanced private and group instruction, ensembles, summer music programs, master classes, performances, outreach opportunities, and workshops. Partnering with eleven local K-12 public and private schools and youth-centered service organizations, GreenSpring supports the community, specifically youth with the greatest need, by providing in-school and after school music programs that incorporate performances by our students and professional musicians. GreenSpring also offers concerts in diverse settings with a special focus on performances for those in our community with limited access to the arts.
Grove Avenue Piano School is Richmond’s fastest growing music lesson program. They now offer private lessons in piano, guitar, voice, drum, mandolin, bass, and banjo at their Westhampton location, as well as piano at their Fan and Central Montessori School locations. Their dedicated staff teaches to all ages and experience levels. Visit them at the link above to learn more about their online portal and mobile app that allows students at all locations to schedule lessons and book piano tunings.
The Lesson Studio at Music and Arts provides customized lesson plans built to fit all levels, ages, and genres of music. Their goal is to support musicians from beginner to advanced with professional instruction in a fun environment. In addition to lessons, they also offer instrument sales, rentals, and repairs. Click here to request private lessons at their Richmond location.
Midlothian Music Lessons is committed to providing the kind of teachers who can help any student gain lifelong music skills if they are willing to spend their time learning. Lessons are available in guitar, woodwind, violin, piano, cello, and drum.
Musikgarten offers music & movement and keyboard for children from birth to age 10. The goal of this program is to nurture everyone’s music aptitude by engaging children and their families through singing and movement activities. Click here to find a teacher in your area.
Studio Guitar – Learning guitar is a fun way for children to learn music. Studio Guitar is a private music studio dedicated to teaching a comprehensive method enabling students to play any style of music. With over 35 years of experience, my system of teaching incorporates the best old and new school teaching methods, including the Suzuki Method of teaching children from 6 to 12 years old. Private or group lessons available. Works with autistic students.
CREATIVE ARTS AND ACTIVITIES:
All Fired Up is a hands-on clay ceramics painting workshop that is fun for kids and parents alike. Their after school clay programs are ideal for building special relationships, developing problem-solving skills and fostering holistic thinking, as well as helping to bring out children’s creativity and sense of expression. They offer eight different clay building programs that can be used as after school enrichment by schools, as well as an in-studio after school program that offers lessons in pottery painting, glass fusing, wet clay building, and wheel throwing at either their Midlothian or Short Pump location.
ART IS FUN! offers art lessons in Richmond’s West End for beginning or advanced students, ages K-Adult. Have fun while learning serious art skills and techniques. All mediums are offered, including pencil, colored pencil, pen and ink, watercolor, pastels, oil pastels, acrylic, oil painting, printmaking, and mixed media. All classes, workshops, and summer camps are taught by an experienced, award-winning professional artist.
Center for Creative Arts offers art lessons for everyone from children to adults. Their professional instructors help children and teens refine their creativity and enhance their creative expression. In addition to art classes, they also offer chess classes and ballet for young dancers, as well as private instruction in guitar, piano, drums, flute, violin, voice and more at their location at Shady Grove United Methodist Church in the Far West End.
Character Works is a non-profit after school theater program for students ages 4-19. They are committed to honoring Christ, building character and creating community through quality theater. CharacterWorks offers a wide variety of classes in drama, voice, dance, and specialty theater training during fall, winter and spring sessions. Classes are a great way for students to gain valuable theater arts training, develop confidence and make life-long friends! Students participating in classes are also eligible to audition for main-stage productions.
The Cultural Arts Center of Glen Allen offers ceramics (clay basics), music, confectionery arts, painting and drawing classes for kids on both weekdays and weekends, as well as ceramics (pottery), music, literary arts and visual arts for teens ages 13-17.
Drama Kids International has provided innovative programs to tens of thousands of children in the USA since 1999. The local Drama Kids chapter offers classes for multiple age levels in locations throughout Richmond, Glen Allen, Henrico, Hanover, Chester, and Chesterfield.
Edible Education is a cooking school for youth. They travel to schools, community centers and events with all the food and equipment necessary to provide hands-on cooking instruction and school enrichment in five or six-week sessions. In the summer, they offer Camp C.H.E.F. where kids cook up fun all week long. Contact them to learn about enrichment programs in your school or group, or visit their class schedule to sign your child up for individual classes.
HATTheatre has been located in RVA’s far west end since 1993 and is the only professional theatre in RVA that offers year-round classes for all ages. Their after school enrichment programs offer fun, exciting, low pressure, non-competitive theater training and acting opportunities for kids ages 5 to 18. Explore comedy, drama, improv, musical theatre, behind the scenes, and much more in an environment where everyone gets their moment to shine. HATTheatre on-stage performance training provides life skills and confidence that lasts a lifetime.
Richmond Young Writers is a creative writing incubator for ages 9-17. They offer once-a-week fall and winter/spring after school workshops in fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction, journalism, comics, and other topics. Be sure to check back in the summer, as well, for 18 different week-long creative writing camps that include guest author appearances, snacks, deep thoughts, and lasting relationships with other young writers.
SPARC (School of the Performing Arts in the Richmond Community) offers a graduated performing arts curriculum for beginners, experienced students and advanced young actors at locations throughout Richmond. SPARC’s performing arts training programs are available for ages 4 – 18 and are designed to develop our students’ talents and abilities while building confidence, creativity, and character. Programs are offered in Musical Theatre, Dance, Acting, Improv, Singing, Music, Audition Skills, and more!
Visual Arts Center of Richmond offers after school art classes for kids ages six to 14. Examples of class offerings include Learn to Sew, Metal Creations, Digital Photography, Imaginative Movie Making and much more. After school classes run one weekday per week from 4:15 to 5:45 p.m. Weekend workshops run from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturdays. For teens aged 15 to 18, Art League offers an immersive art experience for teens who want to extend their artistic practice and potentially prepare portfolios for the art school admission process.
Young Chef’s Academy’s weekly classes are designed to help young chefs explore cuisines while building upon basic skills. Classes are available for children as young as four years old and up. Each class adds a heap of kitchen safety, a scoop of etiquette, a handful of table setting, a pinch of menu planning and laughter to taste. See their special offers for great deals on classes.
ACADEMIC & TUTORING:
Bricks 4 Kidz’ after school classes build on the universal popularity of LEGO® bricks to deliver a high quality of educational play. Kids construct a new model each week based on exciting themes from space to sports, amusement parks to animals. They offer instructors in Henrico, Midlothian, and Chester. Click here to find your nearest location.
Championship Chess offers chess camps and after school enrichment classes at elementary and middle schools throughout the Richmond metro area. Visit their website to learn more about how your child can be involved in both team and tournament play.
Club SciKidz offers after school STEM programs with carefully designed inquiry-centered lessons that provide hands-on activities to capture children’s curiosity, stimulate their interest in science, and teach them important scientific principle and critical thinking skills. Call them at (804) 548-4787 to learn more about current after-school locations.
Club Z! In-Home Tutoring, operating in Richmond since 2004, offers one-on-one tutoring for all grades and subjects.
College Nannies and Tutors of Richmond provides trained, professional tutors for one-on-one help for all grades and subjects. College Nannies and Tutors of Richmond hires local tutors who know your student’s curriculum and can create a customized approach to everything from test taking to essay writing.
The Development Center is a children’s technology lab designed to teach kids of all ages and skill levels. Their after school program provides transportation to the center where kids will enjoy a nutritious snack, homework assistance, quiet reading time, and an exciting guided Technology class where they will learn the fundamentals of technology and be introduced to coding and much more. The program is open until 6:30 pm with no extra fees for non-school days and early dismissal days.
ENB Languages 4 Kidz and Adultz offers language classes taught by certified teachers in French and Spanish for children from the age of three and up. With the option for in-school enrichment programs, Saturday classes, or private and semi-private tutoring, it’s never too early to teach your kids the joy of another language.
Engineering for Kids offers after school enrichment programs at schools in the Greater Richmond area, including Richmond and Glen Allen. Click here to learn more about local school offerings or to find out how to get your school enrolled in their pre-K through 8th-grade programs.
Henrico PAL Chess Program is a free chess club for boys and girls ages 6-18 years old. While it helps for participants to have some familiarity with the game of chess, it is not mandatory. Informal lessons will be provided to beginners. The Chess Club meets on Friday evenings from 6:30pm – 8:30pm at the Henrico County Training Center, located at 7701 E. Parham Rd, Henrico, VA 23228.
Kumon is the world’s largest after school math and reading academic enrichment program. Their personalized approach helps children learn math and reading concepts based on their ability, rather than their age or grade. Richmond offers a number of locations throughout the Greater Richmond area. Click here to find the location nearest you.
Lama Learning promotes the idea that in order for children to be successful, they must have a strong foundation. LAMA (Language Arts & Math Associates) Learning is a student-centered, educational service company dedicated to providing students with the highest level of language arts and math instruction; K-12 tutoring in all subjects; and a variety of educational workshops. Their unique and creative approach to teaching and learning will help any child build confidence and achieve success in school.
Mathnasium’s goal is to significantly increase your child’s math skills, understanding of math concepts, and overall school performance while building confidence and forging a positive attitude toward the subject. They offer six Richmond area locations including Tuckahoe, Mechanicsville, Chester, Short Pump, Midlothian and Wood Lake. Click here to find the one nearest you.
RoboKai offers after-school robotics classes and workshops, as well team-based competitions and participation in the international VEX IQ Challenge. Programs are designed for boys and girls ages 8-14. They teach mechanical engineering, math, physics, programming, geometry, and other STEM topics through hands-on, high-quality robotics. League teams are a great way to make friends with other like-minded kids. Learn more about membership at robokai.com.
Short Pump Reading & Math specializes in tutoring for students who have difficulty with reading, spelling or math or who have dyslexia. With one-to-one tutoring for students ages five to adult, their program uses the Orton-Gillingham approach which is a systematic, structured, explicit, multi-sensory approach that is proven to greatly benefit students who have had difficulty learning to read and spell using traditional approaches. Contact them here to learn more.
STEM For Kids provides STEM activities all year round in Central Virginia (Henrico, Midlothian, Goochland, Mechanicville, Richmond City) for Grades K to 8th. After school enrichment programs are offered with FREE school pick up from 2pm – 6pm. Kids are then given time to complete homework and participate in STEM activities daily. STEM Saturdays, STEM Sundays, and Evening Programs are also offered from 5pm – 7pm, featuring STEM activities throughout the year. Click here for program details.
Sylvan Learning Center motivates your child to succeed and thrive by making learning personal. Sylvan provides math tutoring, reading tutoring, writing tutoring, study skills help, homework help, summer camps, SAT/ACT® prep, state test prep and college prep. Their innovative approach teaches kids how to learn in a personal way, so they build their confidence and get inspired to do great things! Visit their Midlothian location website to get started.
Tech Em Studios is an after school technology program in Henrico that offers classes, camps and training focused on applied computer science and computer-aided design. With courses in coding, 3D printing, software design and device building, Tech Em’s instructors teach students at all levels the critical STEM-related skills required in the 21st century. By emphasizing art in technology, Tech Em helps students understand the exciting and evolving relationship between technology and art. Classes are available for elementary through high school students, as well as adults.
Tutor Doctor offers trusted in-home tutoring for the Greater Richmond area. They understand how important a well-rounded education is to future success and that habits and attitudes learned early in life are likely to follow your child throughout his or her life. To facilitate your child’s learning, Tutor Doctor evaluate every student closely to identify his or her needs and track progress. They offer tailored learning plans, customized tutor-matching, collaboration with teachers, flexible scheduling, and in-home convenience.
Tutoring Club of Glen Allen/Short Pump provides tutoring for students of all academic levels, kindergarten through 12th grade. Tutoring Club offers individualized instruction in exclusive TutorAid programs for math, reading, writing, SAT and ACT preparation, study skills, and more. They offer personal tutors in the Glen Allen / Short Pump area.
MULTI-ACTIVITY PROGRAMS:
Challenge Discovery offers after school programs designed for students in kindergarten through fifth grade. Challenge Discovery’s After School Enrichment Programs focus on creative interaction, playful challenges, and teamwork. Their activities are unique, comprehensive and follow a thorough curriculum that lasts between four and six weeks, culminating with a final experience that will keep the kids talking.
Greater Richmond YMCA after school programs provide children and teens with a safe environment where they can learn values and positive behaviors while exploring their unique talents and interests. YMCA offers programs in youth sports, music, arts and more to help children realize their potential. Click here to find a YMCA near you.
Sabot Stony Point Beyond The Classroom offers an array of extracurricular after school activities that provide opportunities for children and adults to delve deeper into particular interests, dabble in unfamiliar techniques or pastimes, and embark on entirely new ventures. Beyond the Classroom activities are open to all children age 3 – grade 5 whether enrolled at Sabot or another school.
The Ozone (formerly The Ozone and The Little Ozone) offers After School and Summer Camp care for kids from daycare age through 6th grade. With areas for quiet activities such as crafts, a computer lab, and a homework space, they offer an ideal environment for after school. The Ozone also plenty of indoor and outdoor open space for running, chasing, playing, and general fun. Best of all, they offer additional lessons, transportation services, and more.
The Kids’ Place at Weinstein JCC offers exciting and dynamic after school activities designed to meet the demands of today’s working families. Programs are available for preschool, elementary school, middle school, and families. Their facility offers nurturing and enriching quality childcare for children both after school and on “School’s Out” days.
CHILDCARE CENTERS AND COMMUNITY-LED PROGRAMS:
Bright Horizons offers a wealth of enrichment activities that engage the interests of school-age children before and after school. Their relaxed setting allows children to live, learn and socialize outside of school and is also available for school closings and holidays, as well as for backup care. Click here to find the Bright Horizons nearest you.
ChildTime Learning Centers offer five before and after school “Clubhouse” programs to meet the needs of busy families. They offer a fun, educational way to start and end each school day for school-age children (up to 12 years old), featuring activities focused on goal-setting and reflection, as well as providing homework support, team-building, and physical activity. Click here to schedule a tour at one of their eight area locations.
City of Richmond Parks and Rec After School Program allows children who are in kindergarten through fifth grade to participate in AFFORDABLE educational and recreational after school activities, including arts and crafts, music, dance, nature and the environment, games, and sports, and much more. They promote the “learning is fun” philosophy with care available from the end of the school day until 5:30 pm every day that school is in session.
Friends Association for Children is a licensed, year-round program for students from 5-12 years in age. Students participate in activities that build the critical academic, literacy, and social/emotional skills that are fundamental for success in school, and life. During the school year, students participate in a variety of activities including:
- Academic Activities (staff led STEAM activities that reinforce & supplement school subjects).
- Homework Buddies (volunteer & staff mentors that help complete homework).
- Reading Buddies (volunteer & staff mentors that include literacy based activities).
- Wellness (outdoor games to encourage healthy living & positive social relationships).
- Music Education & Performing Arts
Youth Development participants also eat a healthy snack after school, and are eligible for FRIENDS’ daily transportation to & from school each day.
Good Shepherd Child Development Center in Midlothian offers before and after school care for school-aged children in a space that is a home away from home. Children are able to be creative indoors, release stress with outdoor play, enjoy quiet time for homework, or simply connect with friends. Their Christian-based learning environment gives children (and parents) the peace of mind knowing that they have a positive uplifting experience at the start – or end of each day.
Henrico PAL After School Program provides Henrico County youth with a safe environment in which to explore a wide variety of educational and recreational opportunities. The program encourages participants to broaden their horizons and focuses on developing positive relationships between police officers and youth while engaging in enriching experiences. The first hour of the After School Program is solely dedicated to homework and studying. Each location is supervised by police officers, school teachers, athletic coaches, and college students. See a complete list of participating schools and register here.
Higher Achievement After School Academy provides homework coaching, an elective, dinner, and two hours of intensive small group academic mentoring in math, literature, and seminars. Designed for middle school students, the program nurtures an environment of high achievement with the goal to have all participants graduated from high school and ready for college by 2030. Click here to find the Richmond Area Achievement Center nearest you.
Jack and Jill School’s after school activities provide homework assistance, supervised play, computers, drama, music, stretch ‘n’ grow, playground time, and more in a safe, stimulating and relaxed environment. Transportation is available from the following elementary schools: Ridge, Pemberton, Skipwith, Maybeury, Tuckahoe, Pinchbeck, Jackson Davis, Crestview, Three Chopt, Gayton, and Carver.
La Petite Academy offers before and after school programs for school-age children up to the age of 12. Their programs are designed to provide a great start and finish to every day with healthy breakfasts and snacks, plus fun, educational activities. In affiliation with Child Time Learning Centers, they offer three convenient Richmond area locations on Springfield Road in Glen Allen, Old Hundred Road in Midlothian, and Church Road in Richmond. Click here to schedule an online tour.
The Launch Academy offers a safe and affordable place to come for after school activities. Located at the Richmond Community Church, they provide enrichment opportunities by partnering with local programs like Engineering for Kids and Smart Solution Tutoring. Homework is completed daily with degreed and certified teachers. Please visit their website to learn more.
Phase II Neighborhood After School & Child Development Center offers a safe and nurturing environment with staff dedicated to building strong positive relationships with students and parents. At Phase II your child(ren) will be divided into bright spacious classrooms with their peers. Our trained and dedicated teachers are ready to assist your child in all areas. Pickup schools include Adams, Baker, Donahoe, Fair Oaks, Mehfoud, Montross, Seven Pines, Varina and Ward Elementary Schools, as well as John Rolfe and Farifield Middle Schools.Elementary Schools. Phase II is Varina’s first independent and minority owned child care center.
Skipwith Academy Youth Zone delivers quality before and after school care for school-age children, including complimentary transportation to and from local schools, breakfast and snacks, and enriching educational and physical activities. Their Youth Zone program offers the opportunity to complete homework assignments in quiet areas, as well as various clubs based on their interests such as jewelry making, step dancing, art, chess, sports, and soccer or basketball. Children also have the time to work on special projects together like robotics, movie making, pottery making, and games. Visit the school locator to learn more about their ten area locations.
Tuckaway Child Development and Early Education Centers provide comprehensive before and after school care for families in the Greater Richmond area. Click here to see a complete list of schools that offer after school transportation to each of Tuckaway’s six area locations.
The Village at LeafSpring School offers multiple locations throughout Richmond for your school-age child (up to age 14) and include stimulating recreational activities and homework supervision. Their nationally accredited school-aged recreation program is designed to meet the changing academic, recreational and social needs of children. Staffed by specially trained and degreed recreational counselors, recreational instructors, and recreational assistants, the program encourages and promotes choice while instilling leadership skills and values. Click here and visit the “Find A School” link at the top of the page to find the location nearest you.
The Youth Life Learning Center provides safe and structured after school activities for children. Certified teachers and trained volunteer mentors instruct children daily from 2:30 pm – 6 pm to encourage them to complete their homework successfully and strengthen their academic skills. Click here to see a list of programs or contact the Youth Life Foundation Learning Center nearest you.
SPECIAL NEEDS PROGRAMS:
Brain Balance Achievement Centers provide comprehensive supplemental care for children with special needs ranging from ADHD to autism. They establish a unique plan for each child that includes sensory motor work, eye tracking, core exercises, academic skill training, healthy nutrition and many other activities that work to bolster a child’s developmental deficits. What is unique is that Brain Balance brings all these activities together in one program, including monitoring and reporting on a child’s progress. To learn more or to see if your child can benefit from Brain Balance’s programs, request information online or contact one of their centers in Midlothian or Glen Allen.
Dominion Youth Services enriches the lives of the people they serve by instilling in them a belief that they have the capabilities to achieve their goals. They provide programs that allow individuals to develop the skills necessary for success with a supportive, caring staff. They provide a broad array of services to include mental health, education, intellectual disabilities, and autism. Click here to learn more.
FAITH (Furtherance of Autism with Interventions, Treatment and Health Services) offers in-home training, at school assistance (if applicable), and community setting training to teach skills that will help your child meet typical developmental milestones. Program development is customized to your child’s needs and uses positive training techniques. FAITH uses both BCBA services and behavioral technician tutors to help you and your child reach their goals. Click here to see their available services.
Next Steps Behavioral Center provides high-quality, customized, and person-centered Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and Early Intensive Behavior Intervention (EIBI) therapies for children, teenagers, and young adults. They serve individuals diagnosed with Autism and related disabilities or who are seeking help for either reducing problem behavior or increasing skill acquisition. In addition to therapy, they offer social skills groups, educational seminars, training, and consultation. They offer locations in Henrico, Mechanicsville, and Midlothian.
Sarah Dooley Center for Autism is part of St. Joseph’s Villa’s comprehensive care program. The center prepares students with autism for the fullest possible life as adults. Serving children and youth ages 5 to 22, they focus on building real-world skills that lead to self-sufficiency, all in a structured, nurturing environment. Local school systems from across Central Virginia place students in the Sarah Dooley Center and in many cases, tuition is paid by the student’s local school system with no charge to the parent(s). Contact them or visit the website to learn more.
SOAR365 provides after school and school holiday care for school-aged children (ages 5 – 21) who have special needs. The program provides a stimulating environment, including help with homework; training in safety, cooking, money management, shopping and personal hygiene; learning new ways to express him or herself through art, music and other creative ways; exercise, nutrition counseling and medication management; insights into socializing with others, often through volunteering; trips to restaurants, museums, bowling alleys, swimming pools, libraries and parks; and work skills/career exploration. SOAR365 provides care from 2pm – 7pm pm school days and from 8:30am – 6pm on school holidays and summer break.
Short Pump Reading & Math offers specialized tutoring for students who have difficulty with reading, spelling or math or who have dyslexia. They provide one-to-one tutoring for students ages five to adult using the Orton-Gillingham approach. This method is a systematic, structured, explicit, multi-sensory approach that has been proven to greatly benefit students who have difficulty learning to read and spell using traditional approaches. Your child will gain the skills and knowledge needed to become a confident reader and speller.
St. Joseph’s Villa After School and Day Support program is available for weekday after school and all-day programs, providing recreational services when school is not in session. To best serve individuals with autism and other intellectual and developmental disabilities, the staff-to-client ratio does not exceed 1:4. Day support programs are available for both youth and adults with special needs.