While modest in size—the cozy storefront uses a sliding wall to section off its studio from the office and kitchenette—the concept is big. Instead of opening a location of a preexisting national franchise, these moms created their own brand (they hope to license it to other mompreneurs in the future) with their own unique children's classes. Like the women behind the Sunnyside Arts Cooperative in Queens, Kidberry is a community affair, a place where local families come together for fun and learning.

The first thing that struck me when I walked into Kidberry was the casual vibe. Mekia breastfed her toddler as she did office work and Pamela's preschooler son played in a corner. The co-owners do pretty much everything at Kidberry, from answering the phones to teaching classes to building the website, although they do have additional instructors on staff.

The studio features a colorful mat and a mirror-lined wall. This is where the performing arts classes take place. In addition to familiar offerings like ballet and Music Together, there are options such as Latin fusion dance and Hippitee Hop. Some programs are drop-off while others are Mommy and Me, and there are also art and Spanish language classes. Although the prices vary, most programs are around $300 per 10-week semester, plus a one-time $15 registration fee. Not downtown prices but not super-cheap either. However, the classes are very small (six to eight students each) so every child gets individualized attention, and there are discounts for siblings. Kidberry also offers holiday camps ($65 until 3pm and $15 per hour afterward) and various birthday party packages ($479-$679).

Even though Kidberry is open for business, there will be additions in the near future, including a small salon and boutique in the front (right now that space is empty save for a coin-operated car ride) and cooking classes.

The families who come to Kidberry really reflect the diversity of the neighborhood. A great way to check out the scene and the space is to attend a Live Band Fridays party. On the first Friday of every month, Kidberry hosts this family concert featuring a jazz, blues, rock or funk band, and invites kids to sing and dance along. The suggested donation is $15 per family and an RSVP is required (you really want to do that. It is a small space). The next one is this Friday, November 4 at 5:30pm. Another way to check out Kidberry is to sign up for a free demo class or drop in on a storytelling session ($10 per family). I'm really looking forward to taking my daughter to classes here. It's nice not to have to leave the neighborhood.


Kidberry is located at 2046 Seventh Avenue between 122nd and 123rd Streets, 212-866-5437.