Published: June 28, 2019
FAVORITE INDOOR DESTINATION FOR OLDER KIDS
Topgolf
Be on top of your game as you set micro-chipped golf balls sailing toward outdoor targets surrounded by a sprawling city view. Beyond your average putting green, this place takes the game to a whole new level. By blending technology and entertainment, players are able to track their golf ball and accurately score each shot based on the target it enters. Dozens of climate-controlled hitting bays equipped with HDTVs are situated throughout the sports bar and restaurant. Any guest under 16, or under 18 after 9pm, must be supervised by a guest over 21. Seasonal academies, camps, leagues, lessons and birthday parties are available for kids of all ages throughout
the year.
17321 NW Seventh Ave., Miami Gardens
305-357-6151
FAVORITE PARTY PLACE
Sky Zone
Birthday parties soar to new heights at this thrilling indoor trampoline park that includes open jump, a foam zone, basketball dunking and dodge ball. A single room or the entire facility can be rented depending on the size of the celebration and party packages can be customized to suit specific needs. A party pro, otherwise known as a staff member, oversees the flow of activities from start to finish and handles set-up and clean up, ensuring a fun, and hassle-free time for the guest of honor and their family. Locations in Cutler Bay and Doral.
FAVORITE INDOOR PLAYGROUND FOR LITTLE ONES
Jumpin’ Jamboree
No matter what the weather, Jumpin’ Jamboree has got kids covered with 15,000 square feet of cool, dry space for jumping and playing. Parents can sit back and watch the action unfold as children climb, bounce and slide their way into fun. The age limit for jumping is 12, and a separate soft play toddler area is designed specifically with the safety of little ones in mind. The play space includes other safety and security features, including a corresponding identification number assignment upon entering, a controlled exit door, video monitoring, certified inflatables with safety mats, and more.
6000 NW 97 Ave., Doral
305-599-3288
FAVORITE SPORTS PROGRAM
Miami-Dade County Parks
Parks in Miami-Dade County are for much more than just picnics. To keep kids active, happy and healthy, the park system offers a variety of sports-themed camps, classes and activities that promote athletic, outdoor fun. A Youth Sports Development Program allows kids to try a variety of sports and develop new skills in an informal setting, while the Fit2Play program focuses on fitness and nutrition through fun group activities including obstacle courses and relay races. Some of the youth leagues and sports offered throughout Miami-Dade parks include baseball, softball, football, roller-hockey, soccer, swimming, cheerleading and track & field. The parks department also has programs exclusively for children and adults with disabilities conducted by certified therapeutic recreation specialists as well as an inclusion initiative.
http://www.miamidade.gov/parks
AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAM
YMCA of South Florida
Stow away those cell phones and get ready for some recreational fun. Kids stay active and social every day after school at a variety of off-site YMCA after-school community locations throughout the county. Recreational sports, activities and homework help are available through the program. YMCA locations also host a variety of organized sports and activities on-site geared toward a variety of interests. YMCA locations include Downtown Miami YMCA, Homestead YMCA Family Center, South Dade YMCA Family Center and Village of Allapattah YMCA Family Center. Community locations are at select schools throughout the county. See website for details.
http://www.ymcasouthflorida.org
FAVORITE ARTS PROGRAM
Miami City Ballet
Aspiring dancers learn from the pros through a variety of Miami City Ballet’s school year and summer programs that provide rigorous and comprehensive training. From baby steps to the pre-professional track, Miami City Ballet has classes and intensives that teach students ages 3-18 the basics of dance training all the way to advanced technique. Summer programs include Children’s Summer Dance for ages 3-8 and the MCB Summer Intensive for kids ages 9-18 who are interested in a professional career in dance. Founded in 1993, the Miami City Ballet School is one of the largest dance training programs in the nation.
2200 Liberty Ave., Miami Beach
305-929-7000
http://www.miamicityballet.org
FAVORITE CAMP PROGRAM
Miami-Dade County Parks
Remember the days when kids would play outside all day? That kind of summer fun still exists. From exploring the environment and performing scientific experiments to paddling a canoe and fishing, there is endless fun to be had at one of the many Miami-Dade County Parks summer programs. Camps focus on fitness and fun and include a
wide range of activities, such as sports, dance, nature, science, aquatic adventures and cultural arts. A seemingly endless list of themes and activities gives kids plenty of opportunity to try something new and create lifelong memories. Camps take place at parks throughout the county.
http://www.miamidade.gov/parks
FAVORITE ACADEMIC ENRICHMENT PROGRAM
Sylvan Learning
The goal of Sylvan Learning is to give children the tools they need to succeed in school and beyond. With the understanding that no two students are the same, Sylvan Learning customizes tutoring for each child and provides comprehensive programming so that each individual can achieve his or her best potential. Children’s strengths, needs and behaviors are assessed and a unique learning plan is created. Programs include personal tutoring in reading and math, academic coaching, STEM, and ACT and SAT prep courses. Organization and time management skills and test-taking strategies are reinforced during instruction. Locations in North Miami Beach and Kendall.
FAVORITE INFANT & TODDLER ENRICHMENT PROGRAM
Gymboree
Little ones are like sponges, absorbing all of the experiences going on around them. And Gymboree classes provide a platform for sensory development, cognitive learning, physical activity, language, problem solving and social skills through songs, activities and play. Classes are geared toward specific age groups and range from infancy to age 5. While many classes like Family Music and Family Art encourage moms and dads to participate, others such as the School Skills program for preschoolers are designed as a drop-off class for kids to gain confidence and social skills. Locations include Coral Gables, Doral, Kendall and Palmetto Bay.