Family Open Play Classes

Ages 0–5 Years with a Grown-Up. No Commitments. Pay as You Go Classes Affordably Priced Per Family!

Let your child move freely, explore safely, and build confidence—through themed open play activities designed to support for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers alongside their favorite grown-up! Big helper older siblings welcome!

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Family Open Play gives babies, toddlers, preschoolers and even their older siblings a safe, joyful space to move their bodies and follow their curiosity alongside their favorite grown-up as they explore different themed fun adventures every week. With a mix of gross motor equipment, guided group activities, and open-ended exploration, every session supports physical development while encouraging social connection, confidence, and more.

The environment is large, welcoming, flexible, and pressure-free—so kids can engage at their own pace, and families can play and bond together in a way that feels easy and natural.

What To Expect

  • New weekly themes that incorporate fun developmentally-based activities, music and more

  • Open-ended gross motor equipment for climbing, crawling, and balancing

  • Lightly guided group activities (always optional!)

  • Parachute and bubbles, of course!

  • Plenty of space for independent exploration and imaginative play

  • Thoughtfully designed for multiple age ranges—ideal for siblings

  • Facilitated by a family life educator with specialization in the early years

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Why It Works

  • Builds strength, coordination, and confidence through movement

  • Supports sensory regulation and whole-body awareness

  • Encourages decision-making and independent exploration

  • Fosters bonding between children and caregivers

  • Adaptable for mixed ages and developmental stages

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Scheduling and Pricing

  • Saturdays from 10:30am to 11:15am in the 2nd Floor Gym at Bernikow JCC 1466 Manor Rd Staten Island, NY 10314

  • Priced Per Family: $25 non-JCC members, $20 JCC members

  • No commitment classes. Come to one or come to all!

  • Purchase a class pass online and show it to the instructor when you arrive

  • Extra Savings: Purchase a 6 or 10 class bundle (which can also be used on our other walk-in classes for more fun!)

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FAMILY OPEN CLASS TESTIMONIALS

  • "My son had an absolute blast in the Happy Day Play classes at the JCC! The classes are exciting, engaging, and keeps him entertained the entire time. The class provides a safe and fun environment, making it a fantastic way to spend your morning. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a great activity for the kiddos!"

    - Sadie P.

  • "My 7 month old loves this place! Especially the parachute -- so much that I have to do it at home with her lol! The staff at Happy Day Play making learning and playing very engaging and exciting for my little one! Couldn't ask for a better place for my child!"

    - Cassedy L.

  • "We love Happy Day Play's open play classes. Each week is a new theme and love how Ms. Kaitlynn reads the room and modifies group activities based on the ages of the children there. I have never seen a place where all ages are having fun at once. She's the best!

    -Tara C.

  • "My wife found Happy Day Play, came home and told me how much fun SHE had during open play with our girls! I had to check it out myself and agree. I have never been to a family class where you see the parents enjoying themselves just as much as at Happy Day Play. It is a staple in our family's routine at least once a month. Thank you to the JCC for bringing HDP to their center!

    -David L.

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Upcoming Family Open Play Classes at Bernikow JCC (Mid-Island) Location

Featured
Peter Rabbit Springtime Play & Party Saturday March 28th - SPECIAL TICKET REQUIRED, NO WALK-INS
Mar 28
Family Open Play
Peter Rabbit Springtime Play & Party Saturday March 28th - SPECIAL TICKET REQUIRED, NO WALK-INS
Family Open Play

Join us for the Peter Rabbit Springtime Play & Party in Staten Island on March 28, 2026! This fan-favorite event for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers is only $25 per family. Limited spots available—get your ticket today!

Family Open Play