Best Kids Classes and Programs on Sydney’s Upper North Shore
Best Kids Activities on Sydney’s Upper North Shore
From trampolining to trumpeting, there’s no shortage of fun stuff for kids on the Upper North Shore to discover. Activities involving physical coordination and mental concentration are great for helping children grow strong in both their body and mind, plus they can help to boost confidence and social skills.
Keep reading to discover where to find the most reputable kids classes, including:
- Art and creative classes
- Ballet and dance
- Music and drama
- Soccer
- Gymnastics
- Multi-sport
Kids Art & Creative Classes on the North Shore
Art classes give kids the chance to express themselves through activities like painting, drawing, and sculpting. For young kids, making art is great for fine motor skill development, concentration, and imagination. It’s also amazing for older kids, helping them to develop creative thinking skills while broadening their awareness of the world by looking at the history of art, as well as thinking about what’s currently happening in the art world.
Here are our top recommendations for kids art classes on the North Shore Sydney, with options to help your child explore their creativity in a supportive setting.
Hornsby: Global Art
Address: Suite T4/17-19 Florence St, Hornsby
Phone: 0450 868 068
Email: hornsby@globalartaustralia.com.au
Website: https://aus.globalart.world/venues/globalart-hornsby/
If you’re looking for fulfilling kids activities in Hornsby, Global Art is beloved by locals for its caring and encouraging atmosphere. The centre offers school holiday art workshops and regular classes for children, with guided tutorials covering a range of artistic techniques such as acrylic painting, stained glass painting, 3D texture painting, decoupage, and more.
Suitable for young kids through to teenagers, Global Art in Hornsby provides a vibrant space for kids to shine. Head over to their Facebook page for more info about upcoming workshops.
Hornsby: Sydney Art School (Hornsby Studio)
Address: 63 Hunter St, Hornsby
Phone: 1300 278 252
Email: service@sydneyartschool.com.au
Website: https://sydneyartschool.com.au/art-studios/hornsby-art-studio-63-hunter-st/
Sydney Art School offers art classes for kids on the Upper North Shore in their Hornsby studio. The class options are:
- Mini Monet Art Classes for Kids (ages 5 to 7) – builds foundational drawing and painting skills
- Intermediate Level Art Classes for Children (ages 8 to 10) – refines and extends artistic skills
- Senior Level Art Classes for Children (ages 11 to 13) – structured lessons that allow students to ‘see and be’ like an artist
- Senior Transition Art Classes (ages 13+) – develops excellence in artistic skills in preparation for HSC visual arts courses, or transition to adult classes
The teachers are very helpful and supportive – providing guidance to help kids realise their artistic vision and expand their awareness of the art world. Highly recommended if your child loves being creative, and wants to develop their practical skills.
North Turramurra: Delaney Studios
Address: 217 Bobbin Head Rd, North Turramurra
Phone: 0488 111 853
Website: https://www.delaneystudios.com.au/
These kids classes on the North Shore help children to become more observant and expressive while developing their creative skills in a friendly space. The Children’s Art Classes at Delaney Studios run regularly throughout the school terms, with classes for students aged 5-8 and 9-16 years. (There’s also an advanced class for students aged 9-16).
During the school holidays, the studio runs School Holiday Classes for kids ages 5-16 years. These sessions are tailored to the age of the student, plus their level of ability. Local parents have praised the Delaney Studios team for helping children find their passion and refine their artistic techniques. They also host children’s parties – a unique option for a fun celebration.
Ballet & Dance Kids Classes on The Upper North Shore
There are a number of great ballet classes for kids on the North Shore to choose from. Here, we’ve provided top recommendations for reputable local dance schools. All of these dance academies offer multiple forms of dance, which is convenient because your child can try different styles to see which suits them best.
Dance is an amazing activity for kids because it keeps them active while helping them develop confidence and coordination. All of the schools we’re highlighting provide options for a wide age range, from tots through to teens.
Hornsby, Hornsby Heights, Asquith & Wahroonga: Future Gems
Address: Visit the Dance Studio Locations page for address details.
Phone: 0468 994 488
Email: dance@futuregems.com.au
Website: https://www.danceclasseshornsby.com.au/
Future Gems provides a nurturing and non-competitive environment for children, helping kids explore their creativity through movement. They offer a variety of dance styles including:
- Ballet
- Jazz
- Hip hop
- Contemporary/modern
- Musical theatre
- Acro
This studio runs classes for preschoolers through to older children who are in grades 4-6 in school. Classes run regularly during the school term, and they also provide two performance opportunities during the year so your child can demonstrate what they’ve been learning. A fun and enriching experience for any youngster who loves to move!
Roseville: Dancique School of Dance
Address: 7A Lord St, Roseville
Phone: 0419 426 121
Website: https://www.dancique.com.au/
Offering ballet and hip hop classes for kids on the North Shore Sydney, Dancique in Roseville has been a part of the community since 2013. This studio offers classes in a number of popular dance styles:
- Ballet
- Hip hop
- Jazz
- Acro
- Lyrical
- Musical theatre
- Contemporary/modern
Welcoming and supportive, Dancique accepts students from preschool age through to university students. They’ve received glowing reviews for their caring approach to dance tuition, helping kids grow their confidence while refining their technique.
Lindfield, Killara, Gordon, Pymble & Turramurra: Atkinson’s Dance Academy
Address: Visit the locations page for studio address info.
Phone: 0417 667 390
Email: lyndaatkinson26@gmail.com
Website: https://atkinsonsdanceacademy.com.au/
Founded by Lynda Atkinson in 1995, this studio offers kids dance classes on the North Shore for children aged 3 and up. Adult and senior classes are also available. Studios are located at Lindfield, Killara, Gordon, Pymble and Turramurra, and they offer the following styles:
- Ballet
- Jazz
- Hip hop
- Contemporary/modern
- Lyrical
- Tap
- Musical theatre
- Acro
Several of Atkinson’s teachers have enjoyed careers as professional dancers, and each year the studio holds a concert at the Concourse in Chatswood to showcase each of their students. This is a great option if your child is serious about dance and wants to take their skills to the next level.
Lindfield: DANCE1
Address: 454 Pacific Hwy, Lindfield
Phone: 1300 855 455
Email: info@dance1.com.au
Website: https://www.dance1.com.au/
Dance1 offers dance classes for toddlers on the North Shore with their Preschool Tinies sessions (for kids aged 2.5 – 6 years). They also offer classes for Minis & Demis (Kindy – Year 3), Juniors (Year 4, 5 & 6) and Intermediate & Seniors (Year 7 – 12).
Your child can try different dance styles including:
- Ballet
- Jazz
- Hip hop
- Contemporary/modern
- Lyrical
- Tap
- Musical theatre
- Acro
This studio has been operating for 26 years, providing locals with the opportunity to explore their passion for dance in a nurturing setting. They also hold an end of year concert where your child will get the chance to shine on stage.
Music & Drama Kids Classes in the North Shore
In this section we’ll explore music and acting classes for kids on the North Shore of Sydney. These types of classes help kids develop a sense of rhythm while developing their memory and communication skills. Learning an instrument or delving into acting is a great way for a child to build their confidence and make new friends.
Turramurra: International School of Music
Address: Level 1, 1319-1321 Pacific Highway, Turramurra
Phone: (02) 9983 9460
Email: info@ismturramurra.com.au
Website: https://www.ismturramurra.com.au/
Offering music classes for kids on the North Shore, the International School of Music (ISM) has over 33 years of experience. They offer group lessons and private tuition for children as young as 2 years, all the way up to adult classes. ISM specialises in the following:
- Piano/keyboard
- Guitar
- Drums & percussion
- Violin
- Vocals
Whether your child is a beginner or is looking for HSC exam preparation assistance, ISM offers programs that are structured, comprehensive, and fun. All teachers are fully accredited, and students of this school consistently achieve excellent results in AMEB exams. Some students have even gone on to enjoy careers as professional musicians.
Hornsby: Jim Jam Music
Address: 11 Coronation St, Hornsby
Phone: 0419 809 055
Email: admin@jimjammusic.com.au
Website: https://jimjammusic.com.au/
Offering music classes for babies as young as 3 months through to adults, Jim Jam Music in Hornsby introduces children to the joy of music – giving them a lifelong love of learning. They specialise in drums, percussion, and vocals, offering a variety of classes including:
- Kindermusik (0 – 5 years)
- Music (5 – 8 years)
- Musical theatre (5 – 12 years)
- Kidschoir (6 – 12 years)
- Fundrum (all ages)
Jim Jam Music also offers school holiday programs plus Mobile Music for ELCs and schools. With a supportive atmosphere and passionate teachers, this music school provides an engaging option for kids who want to explore their creativity.
Killara, Turramurra, St Ives, Hornsby & Asquith: Marian St Theatre for Young People
Address: Studios are located at Killara, Turramurra, St Ives, Hornsby & Asquith
Phone: (02) 9880 2356
Email: info@mstyp.org.au
Website: https://www.mstyp.org.au/
During the school term, Marian St Theatre for Young People runs weekly classes at a variety of locations around the North Shore. They also run school holiday workshops which gives kids a chance to learn different acting skills in a supportive and fun setting (you can also book a trial drama class during the school term).
The curriculum strikes a balance between theory and practical exercises, providing kids with an introduction to various acting techniques and styles. These classes are particularly great for helping kids develop their confidence – a skill that will provide ongoing benefits throughout their life.
Sport Programs for Toddlers and Kids
If your child has a lot of energy to burn, enrolling them in a sports team or gymnastics squad is a great way to help them thrive. This section will explore Sydney North Shore kids classes that offer everything from structured sports through to playful movement. It’s a great way to keep them happy, while also helping their physical, mental, and social development.
Soccer Programs for Kids Upper North Shore
To kick start our sport section, we’ll look at the best soccer clubs in the North Shore – offering training and competitions for kids aged 5 and up.
Asquith: Asquith Soccer Club
Phone: 0422 008 409
Email: registrar@asquithsc.org.au
Website: https://asquithsc.org.au/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AsquithFC
Asquith Soccer Club accepts youth registration for the following categories:
- Miniroos (6 – 11 years)
- Youth (12 – 18 years)
To help young kids get started on their soccer journey, Asquith Soccer Club provides a 3 week pre-season Kick Start Program for all male and female Under 6 and Under 7 players. The Kick Start Program is led by the highly qualified coaches at XLR8 Player Development and is free of charge to registered players.
These are often the first steps of a child’s football journey. Having the experienced and friendly XLR8 coaches lead the sessions helps many settle in during what can be an anxious time. All Miniroos players will receive an Asquith FC training shirt, Asquith FC socks and a Summit training ball so they can continue to develop their love of football at home.
North Turramurra: North Turramurra Football Club
Address: 310 Bobbin Head Rd, North Turramurra
Phone: (02) 8880 7983
Email: ntfccommunications@gmail.com
Website: https://www.ntfc.com.au/
Offering mixed and girls only registration for kids aged 6 to 18, North Turramurra Football Club provides a supportive opportunity for children to gain confidence on the soccer field. They don’t offer soccer for toddlers on the North Shore since Football Australia specifies that a child must be turning 5 in the year of their registration – however youngsters are still welcome to come along to watch the games.
The Miniroos category is suitable for young children, allowing them to play in a non-competitive league where they can gain new skills and enjoy the excitement of playing alongside their teammates. Players take part in small sided games with modified field sizes and playing numbers. As your child progresses through the MiniRoos age groups, the field size increases as well as player numbers, preparing them eventually for the full size field version of 11v11 football.
South Turramurra: Kissing Point FC
Address: Auluba Oval, South Turramurra
Website: https://kpfc.asn.au/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kissingpointfc/
Founded in 1957, Kissing Point FC plays its home games at Auluba Oval in South Turramurra. This is a welcoming and supportive community, with teams for all kinds of players – including young children.
These are their youth categories:
For all age groups, the season runs from April to September. Miniroos is all about fun and teamwork, with small-sided games on small fields, suited to the age of the players. Players take part in one training session during the week, after school, and a match on the weekend. From age 7, development-focussed players can try out for a Junior Development League team, with twice weekly training.
Upper North Shore Kids Gymnastics & Movement Classes
Here, we’ll provide information about gymnastics for toddlers on Sydney’s North Shore, as well as class options for kids from kindergarten through to high school. Gymnastics helps children build strength, flexibility, and coordination while encouraging focus and discipline. It’s also a fun way to boost their confidence as they master new skills and overcome challenges.
Waitara: PCYC Hornsby-Ku-ring-gai
Address: 1 Park Ln, Waitara
Phone: (02) 8998 5400
Website: https://www.pcycnsw.org.au/sports-recreation/gymnastics/
Waitara PCYC offers regular gymnastics classes for children, helping them grow and develop while having fun in a safe environment. These are their class offerings:
This parent/adult assisted class focuses on learning through play. Kinder gym uses colours, sounds and other stimulation to help your child develop body control and strengthen brain connections. Your child will learn to roll, climb, jump, and swing – all while socialising with parents and other children.
These classes are suitable for preschool and kindergarten aged children, offering more structure than the Kindergym program. The teaching methods and activities are specifically targeted to suit the developmental and cognitive needs of this age group, whilst increasing self-confidence in an independent learning environment.
Wahroonga: Miss Rhythmics Gymnastics Club and Dance Studio
Address: 27 Yardley Ave, Wahroonga
Phone: 0422 524 076
Email: info@missrhythmics.com
Website: https://missrhythmics.com/
Rhythmic gymnastics is a sport that combines elements of dance, gymnastics, and apparatus (like ribbons, hoops, and balls). It encourages flexibility and coordination while building strength and balance. For children, it’s a fun and creative way to express themselves and develop confidence as they learn new routines.
Miss Rhythmics in Wahroonga offers classes for girls aged 4 to 20, plus dance classes for boys and girls aged 4 to 15. They offer trial classes so your child can see if they enjoy the experience, plus they also offer competition training for those who want to challenge themselves. Rhythmic gymnastics can also be beneficial for children who are studying other forms of dance, as it can enhance their strength, stamina, and flexibility.
Hornsby: Hornsby RSL Gymnastics
Address: 1 Ashley Ln, Hornsby
Phone: (02) 9476 6689
Email: info@hornsbyrslgymnastics.com.au
Website: https://hornsbyrslgymnastics.com.au/
Hornsby RSL Gymnastics has been providing the local community with quality gymnastics programs for over 60 years, and it’s now one of the most successful gymnastics clubs on the North Shore. It offers modern gymnastics equipment and a number of programs for children of all ages.
These are their class offerings for kids:
- Kindergym (12 months – 5 years)
- Recreational (5 – 17 years)
- Development (girls aged 5+ who show an increased ability for gymnastics)
- Competitive (Gems and Squads programs for girls aged 5+)
The coaching staff at Hornsby RSL Gymnastics are all registered coaches with Gymnastics NSW and continually upgrade and update their qualifications to further develop their coaching skills. All programs are delivered to the highest standards possible.
Multi-Sport & Active Play Programs
Multi-sport and active play programs give children the chance to explore different activities and discover what they truly enjoy. Offering a mix of games and movement, these programs help kids develop coordination and teamwork while keeping exercise fun. In this section, we’ll explore top recommendations for multi-sport kids activities on the Upper North Shore.
Pymble: Ku-ring-gai Little Athletics Centre
Address: Bannockburn Oval, Bannockburn Rd, Pymble
Phone: 0414 541 867
Email: info@klac.org.au
Website: https://klac.org.au/
Little Athletics is a summer sport offering modified athletics events for children from around 3 years of age. Kids aged 3–5 can join the Tiny Tots program, while those 5 and older are placed in groups with children of the same age and gender. The program covers a wide range of skills, including sprints, long-distance running, long jump, high jump, hurdles, shot put, discus, and more, with each event adapted to suit the child’s age, development and ability.
It’s a chance for families to get active together while children try different events and make new friends. The focus is on participation, improvement, and enjoyment, with athletes growing fitter, faster, stronger, and more confident over the season.
Waitara: Ready Steady Go Kids
Address: PCYC Hornsby, 1 Park Ln, Waitara
Phone: 1300 766 892
Website: https://www.readysteadygokids.com.au/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ReadySteadyGoKidsNorthShore/
Ready Steady Go Kids is Australia’s largest multi-sport program for children aged 1.5 – 6 years. It introduces preschoolers to the fundamentals of 10 sports: soccer, tennis, basketball, hockey, golf, AFL, rugby, athletics, cricket, and T-ball. Each term, children learn 5 sports, allowing time to develop and reinforce basic skills while keeping things fresh. The sports rotate each term to maintain interest, with the final week featuring a fun multisport recap of the skills covered.
It offers a great starting point for serious sports, and it provides a chance for kids to make meaningful connections. Ready Steady Go on the North Shore is a favourite with local parents thanks to its welcoming atmosphere and enthusiastic coaches.
Discover Holistic Childcare on the Upper North Shore
Looking for more tips on family-friendly activities on Sydney’s Upper North Shore? Contact the Only About Children team today to learn how our early learning programs can provide your child with a safe, engaging and nurturing environment.
Explore OAC locations on the Upper North Shore:
Only About Children can help your child to grow, make friends and explore the world.
Only About Children can help your child to grow, make friends and explore the world.
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