Our Family Focus Media team is pleased to present the exceptional programs that nurture children’s talents, spark their curiosity, and foster their growth. From art and music classes to dance studios and yoga, this guide features some of the most loved enrichment opportunities in our area, all recommended by local parents in the Philly Family Community. Whether your child is a budding artist, an aspiring athlete, or a curious learner, you’ll find award-winning programs here to support their passions and help them thrive.

Read the endorsements from local parents in our Philly Family Community about who they love and then pop over to our Philadelphia Family Best for Families Guide to find more trusted resources! Best for Families Celebration, Favorites Fling, and LOVE Luncheon photos by AMC Photography.

 

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“Blooming Artist Studio is an amazing place for children to have a place to meet other creative kids and expand their artistic talents. The owner, Nora, knows each of the students and specializes her lessons to cater to each of their unique skill sets and interests. They have created such a great sense of community and we love being part of everything they offer from after-school art class, to private parties, and summer camp. The teachers care so much about the kids that come and genuinely try to help them discover their artistic talents.”

– Philly Family Community Parent

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“This business has created a space for kids who didn’t have anything like this before. My kids ask to go to Coco Academy every day and hide when it’s time to leave. It’s a place kids can get excited about learning and come home with incredible creations every day. I’m amazed how Coco Academy has uncovered so much potential in my kids’ learning and given them practical applications for STEM that has opened up their worlds.”

– Philly Family Community Parent

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“Miss Sara, Mr. Michael, Ms. Morgan and Mr. Paul are great! My toddler loves the songs, the instruments, and even the toys that they include in their weekly sessions. The class is well-run and great for parents to learn/interact with their little ones. I brought my baby, Cassie, when she was under a year old for a Winter Session; we then returned this current winter for more fun. Miss Sara recognized Cassie immediately, which was so great to see. Cassie remembered her and the special props/toys as well; now that she is older, she asks for “music class!” and will imitate some of the songs at home. It is so great to see her learning and thriving from the attentive staff.”

– Susan B.

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“Jana is an incredible human being—not only the founder of an amazing organization but also a talented and compassionate yoga teacher, an empathetic leader, and an incredibly supportive employer. I feel so lucky to have been mentored and guided by her, witnessing her magic firsthand. The way kiddos engage and join in on the fun during her yoga classes is a testament to how naturally she connects with the children she serves. She deserves all the recognition, and I am proud to know her and be part of her team.”

– Graziana Z.

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“When my family and I moved from Portland, OR to Philadelphia in April 2021, I was eager to meet people and connect with other parents and find fun activities for my then just two-year-old son. Mister John’s Music came highly recommended as THE thing to do with my toddler in Philly, so I signed up for the first class that was available. We have been in class every single session ever since, and it has been the most incredible experience not only for my son, but also for me. The classes are engaging, educational, and fun for both children and adults, and the community is so welcoming and wonderful to be a part of. All of the teachers are amazing, and my child’s love for music has only continued to blossom. We plan to continue music education with Mister John for years to come!”

– Tracy H.

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“I’m excited to nominate Move It! Kidz 4 Fitness, K4F, a mobile fitness program designed to bring engaging, energetic, and educational fitness classes directly to schools, daycares, libraries, churches, and more. Led by the amazing Ms. Toni, K4F is crafted to inspire and motivate children to embrace movement and develop essential physical skills while having fun. Ms. Toni is not only patient with every child but also deeply committed to fostering an inclusive and positive learning environment. Her unique teaching style encourages participation from both children and staff, creating an atmosphere of teamwork and support. If one child finds it challenging to grasp a particular skill, Ms. Toni doesn’t hesitate to pause the class and implement teamwork strategies to ensure every child feels supported and succeeds. Parents and teachers have shared how much the kids look forward to their classes. The joy and excitement of moving and learning together make every session memorable for my child and others.”

– Philly Family Community Parent

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“PCR is a 100% privately funded summer camp & year round program that teaches Philadelphia public school children to row & grow as athletes and leaders. They build community for rowers and their families, connect students with the river and the history of Philadelphia rowing. PCR teaches rowing but more than that they nurture leaders. Through weekly seminars on a variety of topics, free SAT prep & tutoring, providing leadership opportunities for students & more, PCR provides an education.”

– Keely M.

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“Amazing institution that serves the community with classes and events! They offer circus and movement classes for kids from 2 years old to teens. And circus classes for adults too!”

– Philly Family Community Member

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“Amazing gymnastics space and instructors for kids’ gymnastics!! They also have adult options!”

– Philly Family Community Parent

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“My daughter has been participating in the theater program and vocal lessons at PPAC for a year and a half, and it has truly impacted her life in so many positive ways! She loves the instructors, and has made wonderful friendships – and the skills she is learning on stage are being carried into her every day life. We truly cannot say enough things about how incredible this program is. Her vocal coach, Kathryn, has given her so much confidence and has helped her achieve a level of singing performance she couldn’t have imagined two years ago.”

– Shannon C.

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“It’s a unique Philly institution that continues to be free, which is amazing. They also have great creative programming. And it’s SAFE! Also a place where many types of people can connect.”

– Philly Family Community Parent

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“My kids have enjoyed the summer camp at Spanish Workshop for Children every summer since 2021. We speak Spanish at home, and Spanish Workshop for Children’s approach is play-based and immersive, so it works for kids with all different language backgrounds and abilities, including ours! This year, Spanish Workshop for Children also began to partner with our local public school in Philadelphia to offer an after-school Spanish program too. Our family relies on Spanish Workshop for Children as a trusted community resource!”

– Emily H.

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“Philadelphia Dance Academy is a shining example of dedication, excellence, and community spirit. Through their rigorous and inspiring dance programs, they instill confidence, discipline, and elegance in children, shaping them into not only talented dancers but also poised and self-assured individuals. Their impact extends far beyond the studio, as countless students have gone on to achieve great success—some even dancing professionally—yet they always return, a testament to the strength and lasting influence of the academy’s nurturing environment. As a beacon in the community, Philadelphia Dance Academy has touched the lives of so many, making them more than deserving of this community award.”

– Sia B.

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“The Love Exquisite Arts and Recreation Nonprofit Center provides gun violence intervention and prevention programs to underserved youth and adults in North and West Philadelphia through creative expression through the Arts, film, theatre, sports, and music programs. They make an impact in communities by giving back to the community. Every year they have an Empowerment Symposium that helps empower youth to be their best selves and also have a free school supply and book drive and a holiday giveaway giving to children of families in need. Lynnette, the Community Outreach Coordinator, helps engage and inform youth and adults of their services and programs. She has a caring heart for people and they want to be a part of the solution to helping to end senseless violence in Philly.”

– Janice P.

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“I’m so lucky to have MTP. If I hadn’t done Hamilton camp in 2019 and later signed up for The Spongebob Musical (2021), I probably never would have done theater. This show taught me so much and while I still consider myself a singer first, I am so much more confident in my dancing abilities now. In general, this show made me realize that I deserve a place on a stage, which I didn’t always believe. Thank you for trusting me with this role and for being such a great director and person.”

– MTP Student

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“Music With Gina is a staple in our house. We have Gina on the smart speaker, we watch her videos on her YouTube channel, we read her published books, and we even made a Yoto card with her MP3s! And most importantly, we visit her every Saturday in our community for music class. My daughter started going to Gina’s classes in 2022, after having spent her entire life at CHOP. She had never been to a music class in the community before, and we weren’t sure how she would like it. Needless to say, Gina shone her light on her (and her parents) and the rest is history. Gina helped all of us feel comfortable in the community and gave us a space to come out of our shells. She helped with accommodations for our daughter and gave us the gift of her music—which the whole family loves. Gina has a gift. Firstly, her music is so special and so lovely, and she has created such a unique space for families in the NW Philly/Montco communities. Secondly, she is light; she shines. And it radiates. It can change the trajectory of a day for us. We are so grateful for all that she has given to us.”

– Amanda J.

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“”Amazing program—we love them!”

– Liz O.

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“PMDC has been known for being a family-oriented organization. They really love the children as if they were their own. They have been in existence for 21 years. It’s a beautiful place to take your children. They have a dance school, daycare, summer camp, afterschool program and an indoor playspace. They cater to the children and even offer them jobs in the summer. It’s an amazing place. They definitely deserve to be recognized. They have two African-American females who are in charge of everything. Ms. Danielle and Ms. Kamille are amazing at what they do. This community couldn’t ask for a better place to have in the city of Philadelphia. It’s positive, safe, nurturing and fun.”

– Philly Family Community Parent

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“Spanish Exploradores has been coming to our elementary school to teach our K-2 kids introductory Spanish. They took over for a different company. Their curriculum and approach has been well received by the students. I have had a great experience with the administrative staff as the treasurer of the organization that funds the program.”

– Seth M.

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As we celebrate these outstanding Philadelphia Family LOVE Award Winners and Family Favorite Honorees who offer enrichment programs, services, and activities, it’s clear that Philadelphia offers a wealth of opportunities for children to explore, learn, and grow. These exceptional programs and dedicated professionals play a crucial role in shaping our children’s futures, helping them discover new talents, build confidence, and develop important life skills. Whether your child is interested in the arts, sports, academics, or nature exploration, these award-winning resources provide the expertise, guidance, and supportive environments needed to help them flourish. We encourage you to explore these valuable opportunities and connect with the passionate educators and coaches who are committed to nurturing the next generation of artists, athletes, scholars, and leaders in our community. Be sure to explore the Main Line Parent Best for Families Guide and Bucks County Parent Best for Families Guide to find even more resources that can support your family’s journey.

Know a fantastic local resource that should be on this list? Share your experience with a Philadelphia Family Member on their Profile Page (we count new endorsements as nominations year-round)! If you would like YOUR organization to be more connected with local parents, caregivers, and family-focused business leaders in our community, we invite you to join our Philadelphia Family Membership Program.