Finding the right after school program can make a big difference in a child’s daily routine and overall development. These programs support working parents, help students with homework, and give kids a safe space to explore new interests.
There are many options in the area, from art and music to tutoring, sports, and more.
1) Stemtree of Pinecrest
I visited Stemtree of Pinecrest recently to learn more about their after-school offerings. The learning center focuses on STEM, which stands for science, technology, engineering, and math. I noticed that the staff members are friendly and clearly enjoy teaching kids.
The center offers a range of programs, including hands-on activities that make learning fun and interactive. There are options for both younger children and older students who may want extra help in these subjects. The space is organized, well-lit, and designed to keep students engaged during each session.
I was able to speak with a few parents who praised how the curriculum supports what their children are learning in school. If families are looking for extra tutoring, science projects, or just an engaging place for their kids after school, this is a good option in Pinecrest.
Rating: 4.6 (8 reviews)
Location: 12745 S Dixie Hwy, Pinecrest, FL 33156
Contact: (305) 964-5300
Website: Visit Website
2) Palmetto Bays Best
When I visited Palmetto Bays Best, I noticed right away how organized everything was. The staff greeted me as soon as I walked in, and the space felt clean and secure. Kids were busy with different activities, and it seemed like they were all having a good time.
They run both after-school programs and summer camps. I liked how there were options for homework help and creative play. The program leaders made sure each child got attention if they needed it, not just during group activities.
It was easy to see that the team communicates well with parents. I saw several parents come in, and staff were quick to give them updates or answer questions. The atmosphere felt welcoming, and I felt comfortable asking about the daily schedule.
They are located just off S Dixie Hwy, which made it easy for me to find. The center is designed so kids are always in view, and safety seemed to be top priority.
Rating: 5 (14 reviews)
Location: 13855 S Dixie Hwy, Kendall, FL 33156
Contact: (786) 876-6406
Website: Visit Website
3) Kumon Math and Reading Center of Pinecrest
I walked into Kumon’s Pinecrest location and found it tucked behind Starbucks and Chipotle in the Dixie Belle Shoppes. It’s easy to find if you just follow the signs down the hallway behind the staircase. The atmosphere is calm, organized, and welcoming.
I noticed that students come in during specific class hours on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays after school. The staff asked that everyone wear a face mask, which made it feel safer. The instructor took time to explain the program to me and other families during the orientation.
Kumon focuses on helping students build skills in math and reading. I saw students working independently, but always with guidance. The instructor creates lesson plans that fit each student’s level, and assessments help show exactly where each child is in their learning.
Families can also learn about extra support, like the StepUp program.
Rating: 5 (18 reviews)
Location: 12195 S Dixie Hwy, Pinecrest, FL 33156
Contact: (786) 573-1234
Website: Visit Website
4) Pinecrest Presbyterian Day School
When I walked into Pinecrest Presbyterian Day School, I noticed right away how warm and welcoming the atmosphere felt. The teachers were friendly, and the children seemed genuinely happy, busy with hands-on activities and creative projects. The classrooms are bright and organized, with lots of art supplies and learning materials neatly arranged.
The after-school program here is designed for kids from Pinecrest Elementary, while their main day school serves children from 18 months up to kindergarten. I saw that they focus on both academic and character development, adding Christian values and service projects into daily routines. Activities include art, music, games, and story time, all meant to spark curiosity and build early reading, writing, and math skills.
Teachers use something called The Creative Curriculum, which builds lessons around weekly themes and encourages children to learn through play and exploration. I liked seeing kids succeed at their own pace, whether joining a group activity or working on a solo art project. The small class sizes allow teachers to give kids a lot of individual attention.
Parents were dropping in and chatting with teachers during my visit, and it was clear that family involvement is encouraged. The school puts effort into building a strong sense of community, hosting events that invite families to participate and stay connected.
Rating: 5 (4 reviews)
Location: 10400 SW 57th Ave, Pinecrest, FL 33156
Contact: (305) 666-3377
Website: Visit Website
5) Bricks 4 Kidz Miami | Coral Gables
I visited Bricks 4 Kidz Miami in Pinecrest to check out their after school and camp programs. The space is filled with LEGO® bricks and STEM-focused activities, designed for both fun and learning. Kids build different models and explore basic science and engineering concepts in each session.
The staff is upbeat and keeps a good routine, making sure kids are engaged but not overwhelmed. I noticed that the programs are hands-on and encourage kids to create their own projects, which helps build confidence and teamwork.
They offer full day and half day summer camps, with options for kids ages 4 to 12. The sessions are scheduled throughout June and July, and you can choose by week. Pricing is clear, and registration is easy online.
Rating: 4.2 (5 reviews)
Location: 5855 Killian Dr, Pinecrest, FL 33156
Website: Visit Website
6) Child Care Center at Riviera Presbyterian Church
When I walked into the Child Care Center at Riviera Presbyterian Church, I noticed right away how friendly and relaxed the atmosphere felt. The staff greeted me with a smile and seemed to know every child by name. It’s a non-profit program that’s been around since 1980, and you can tell they have a lot of experience with kids of all ages.
The classrooms looked bright and safe, with toys, books, and spaces set up for learning through play. I saw kids working on art projects and playing with puzzles. The teachers were on the floor with them, helping out and talking about what they were building or drawing.
What impressed me most was how the staff balanced teaching with nurturing. Kids were learning numbers, letters, and social skills, but it all felt like part of a fun game. The center’s focus on hands-on learning gives children confidence and encourages them to try new things on their own.
Rating: 4.8 (21 reviews)
Location: 5275 Sunset Dr, Miami, FL 33143
Contact: (305) 666-2203
Website: Visit Website
7) Grow With Us Academy
When I visited Grow With Us Academy, I saw right away that the staff put a lot of care into each child’s day. The teachers were patient and seemed to really know how to help kids feel comfortable. It felt like a warm, safe place designed just for young children to learn and grow.
I was impressed by their focus on early childhood development. The school uses methods recommended by experts, like Conscious Discipline, which helps kids build confidence and good behavior. The facility was clean and well-organized, with plenty of hands-on activities that kept the children engaged.
I also noticed staff members paying close attention to how each child learned best. The school provides support not just for learning but for social and emotional growth, too. Parents I spoke with mentioned that the staff keeps them up to date and involved with their child’s progress.
Rating: 4.9 (17 reviews)
Location: 5855 Killian Dr, Pinecrest, FL 33156
Contact: (305) 498-6148
Website: Visit Website
8) N.O.L Kids Academy
When I stepped into N.O.L Kids Academy, I noticed how natural and welcoming the space felt. The environment was bright and cheerful, filled with playful decorations and natural materials. I liked that the kids seemed happy and curious, chatting in different languages as they went from activity to activity.
The classes focus on language learning in Spanish, French, Italian, or Portuguese. Each session runs for about an hour and is designed for kids as young as one and as old as ten. The teachers are native speakers, and they use creative, hands-on methods like games, crafts, and nature-based projects to keep kids engaged.
During my visit, the theme of the week was “The Carrot.” Kids learned vocabulary by touching, drawing, and talking about carrots, which made the lesson feel relevant and interactive. There was a strong focus on practicing language in a practical, relaxed way, whether outside in the re-created forest or inside the creative “atelier” space.
I also saw the importance placed on relaxation and mindfulness. The academy offers “Zen Time,” where kids can listen to music, play sensory games, or simply unwind with a book. This balance between learning and relaxation gave the place a calm, positive energy.
Rating: 4.9 (36 reviews)
Location: 7600 SW 104th St, Pinecrest, FL 33156
Contact: (305) 333.9123
Website: Visit Website
9) Math Monkey of Pinecrest
When I visited Math Monkey of Pinecrest, I noticed right away how the teachers make math enjoyable for kids. The learning center focuses on building strong math foundations for students from kindergarten through middle school. Classes are tailored to each child’s current skills, so no one feels left behind or held back.
I spoke with a few parents during my visit. They shared how their children have gained confidence in math and even started to enjoy their homework time. Some mentioned seeing big improvements in school, like better grades and less frustration with math assignments.
One unique feature I saw was the approach to teaching math. Instead of focusing only on memorization, instructors encourage students to think and use logic. The teachers use strategies that make tough problems easier to understand and solve.
All the instructors I met were certified teachers who clearly cared about the subject and the kids. The atmosphere felt both welcoming and supportive.
Rating: 4.6 (11 reviews)
Location: 12651 S Dixie Hwy Suite 313-314, Pinecrest, FL 33156
Contact: (786) 501-6350
Website: Visit Website
10) Allegria Learning Center
I visited Allegria Learning Center and found it welcoming and calm. The staff greeted me right away and answered my questions about their programs. There were kids working in small groups with tutors and everyone seemed focused.
The center offers private tutoring, test prep, and homework help for kids of different ages. They also have afterschool homework groups, which I noticed lots of parents signing up for. The space felt organized and set up to help students concentrate on their work.
I liked how the tutors tried to make learning easier for each child. They explained things clearly and gave quick support when students got stuck.
Rating: 4.8 (75 reviews)
Location: 1500 SW 27th Ave, Miami, FL 33145
Contact: (305) 456-3351
Website: Visit Website