Auxiliary Programs - Charles River School

Early Birds, Before School Care

CRS offers before-school care, free of charge to all families, beginning at 7:30 a.m. each day. Located in the Library, the Early Birds program is fully staffed by a faculty or staff member. Students can choose a quiet activity or book to read.

Drop in weekly sign up

The Extended Day Program Philosophy

The Extended Day Program (EDP) at CRS is an extension of the school day, and the EDP staff reinforces a strong sense of continuity for students. Our program provides children with the freedom to make individual and group choices and stresses the development of interpersonal social skills and the importance of building community.

EDP provides children with both the structure of directed activities and the opportunity to make their own personal choices during free time, during which children have time to play, interact, and communicate in positive ways. Throughout the program, we encourage children to make creative choices that will enhance their personal growth. As a part of EDP, we offer optional enrichment activities several times a week in areas including STEM, martial arts, dance, and the creative arts.

EDP Sign Up Form

The Joy of Childhood Throughout the Day

Children have opportunities to play in small groups, simulating a neighborhood playgroup. Multi-age grouping enriches personal relationships among the children and provides opportunities to develop new perspectives and ideas.

Enrichment Classes

Each season, we offer a variety of enrichment classes in the afternoons for an additional fee. These activities give students an opportunity to explore a new interest or take a deep dive into an area of interest. Classes are age-based and have included: STEM Lab, Martial Arts, Theater, Dance & Improv, Arts & Crafts, Entrepreneurship, and more.

Enrichment Fall Offerings & Sign Up Form

We are excited to offer the following after school enrichment classes for the fall which will start the week of September 9.

Current Enrichment Offerings
For CRS students only based on availability. Enrichments offered for an additional fee. Please see current offerings below.

Mondays: Sewing
Unleash Your Creativity with Sewing! Join this exciting Sewing class to design and create unique projects. Beginner or experienced, you’ll develop essential sewing skills and unleash your imagination. No experience or special materials needed, we’ll provide everything. Discover various techniques, stitches, and decorative embellishments. Craft stylish garments, accessories, and home decor items. Combine learning with fun and become a sewing enthusiast. Enroll now and explore the exciting possibilities of this timeless craft. Get ready to stitch, create, and unlock endless creativity! This class is open to students in PreK – 5 (students will be separated in groups by age) and will be held Mondays from 3:15 – 4:15pm, beginning September 9 and ending November 18. The cost is $450 for the 10 sessions.
Tuesdays: Blend It Up Cooking Class
Does your child enjoy exploring new flavors and creating tasty treats? Our Blending Basics program introduces young enthusiasts to the art of making smoothies, dips, and more. Students will learn to blend a variety of nutritious and delicious recipes from around the globe, including Mediterranean Hummus, Mexican Guacamole, and American Smoothies. Our sessions are packed with fun, offering kids the chance to learn blending techniques, understand safety protocols, and enhance their culinary vocabulary. Join us for a blending adventure where your child will discover how simple ingredients can be transformed into exciting and healthy creations! This class is open to students in PreK – 5 (students will be separated in groups by age) and will be held Tuesdays from 3:15 – 4:15pm, beginning September 10 and ending November 19. The cost is $485 for the 11 sessions.
Wednesdays: Martial Arts with Master Jung – Likely starting in October – Stay Tuned!
Thursdays: Nature Science for PreK-2 and Robotics for Grades 3-5
– Nature Science: This after-school enrichment class will have students engage their four senses of sight, hearing, touch, and smell through hands-on activities and experiments. We’ll also explore important topics like recycling and nature to foster environmental awareness and appreciation. Join us as we spark your children’s curiosity, creativity, and love for science. It’s going to be an unforgettable journey of learning and exploration! This class is open to students in PreK – 2 and will be held Thursdays from 3:15 – 4:15pm, beginning September 12 and ending November 21. The cost is $450 for the 10 sessions.
Thursdays: Robotics Unleash your creativity in our Robotics class! Discover the exciting world of robotics, engineering, and coding as you work with your own robot. With provided materials (SmartKiddo robots), you’ll learn engineering and programming skills while crafting programs of varying complexity that help robots move and interact with the world. No previous experience is needed; just bring your passion for innovation, problem-solving skills, and an engineering mindset. Join us for an exhilarating journey into the realm of robotics and embrace the endless possibilities of technology and creativity! This class is open to students in Grades 3-5 and will be held Thursdays from 3:15 – 4:15pm, beginning September 12 and ending November 21. The cost is $450 for the 10 sessions.
Fridays: Theatre & Improv
Do you love acting and want to learn how to improvise like a pro? Our Theater and Improv (Yes And) class is the perfect place to start! In this course, students will explore the fundamentals of improvisational theater and learn how to think on their feet. You’ll develop your acting skills through fun exercises and games, as well as learn the art of “Yes And” – a technique that encourages collaboration and creativity. Whether you’re a seasoned actor or a beginner, this class will help you develop your confidence and creativity on stage. We’ll also get to do some stage design. No previous experience is necessary – just bring your willingness to play and have fun! This class is open to students in PreK – 5 (students will be separated in groups by age) and will be held Fridays from 3:15 – 4:15pm, beginning September 13 and ending November 22. The cost is $405 for the 9 sessions.

Elizabeth's Charles River School Point of View

CRS not only honors the pursuit of academic excellence but also recognizes creativity, experiential learning, and collaboration as core to the learning process. We offer before-school care, after-school care and programming, enrichment classes, and a full summer camp experience that all echo the mission of Charles River School.

Elizabeth Clayton
Associate Head of School

Private Music Lessons

For CRS students only based on availability. Lessons offered for an additional fee.

CRS Music Lessons Fall Sign Up Form

Offerings include piano, guitar, ukulele, bass, drums, violin/viola, and voice lessons.

Lessons take place after school from 3:00 – 5:30pm once per week. Length of lessons range from 30 – 60 minutes.

How do music lessons work if my child plays sports?
Our coaches are flexible and children may attend practice a bit late or leave a bit early to accommodate a lesson. Games take priority and should not conflict with music lessons. If a lesson is missed due to a game, we will work to reschedule based on the availability of the instructor but cannot make guarantees.
What grades can sign up for private music lessons?
Generally, students in grades 1st – 8th participate. Vocal lessons are recommended for grades 5-8. For PreK/K interest, please contact Mica Moellering, Head of Performing Arts.
Does CRS offer Chorus?
Yes! All CRS students grades 4-8 are also welcomed to join CRS Chorus at no additional fee. For more information, please contact Mica Moellering, Head of Performing Arts.