A Nanny Match Blog

For nearly ten years, A Nanny Match has grown an extensive network across New York City’s five boroughs, and we’ve become deeply connected with the areas where our families and nannies work and reside. One neighborhood, in particular, is the Upper East Side of Manhattan. It's also where our Founder, Kristen Szapka, called UES home for many years. 

In this blog post, we will discover the Upper East Side with a thoughtful selection of engaging activities and family-friendly dining options.

Fun Activities for Kids

1. Baby Fingers 

Location: 215 E. 81st St

Baby Fingers specializes in Sign Language classes (ASL) for infants and toddlers, promoting communication and bonding between parents/caregivers and children  Here, children are empowered to communicate their needs and feelings and foster language development.

2. The Craft Studio

Location: 1657 Third Ave (Between 92nd & 93rd St)

A super cool creative space for kids and adults, every class and party and The Craft Studio is a great time! Featured on The Drew Barrymore Show and The Today Show, it's a safe and welcoming haven on the UES.

3. The Art Farm NYC

Location: 431 E 91st St (2nd floor)
At The Art Farm NYC, children can engage with bunnies, birds, bearded dragons, tortoises, chinchillas, chickens, and more at NYC’s only indoor petting zoo. Catering to kids aged 14 months to 8 years, they offer a diverse range of classes and after-school programs with staff pickups from P.S. 527!

4. Gymboree Upper East Side

Location: 1622 1st Ave., New York, NY 10028

Located in the heart of Yorkville, this Gymboree Play & Music location offers a top-notch selection of art, play & learn, singalong classes, and Open Gym times for children 0-5 years old.

5. East Side West Side Music Together

Central Park (UES) - near Alice in Wonderland (76th)

Bringing music to families, East Side West Side Music Together offers various programs for children of all ages, fostering a love for music and watching little ones grow.
They have several different offerings for children of varying ages, from birth through seven years: Babies (under 8 months); Mixed Ages (birth - 4 yrs); 3s/4s (3 - 5 yrs); Rhythm Kids® (5 - 7 yrs); and Guitar for Grown-ups.

6. Milk & Cookies Kids Spa

Location: 233 E 33rd St

Milk & Cookies Kid Spa is the ultimate pampering experience where kids can get haircuts, up-dos, mani-pedis, and fun facials. Plus, they get a tasty complimentary treat after their service.

 

Kid-Friendly Restaurants:

Looking for some kid-friendly restaurants in the neighborhood on the UES? Here are a few that both kids and adults can enjoy:

1. Javelina

Location: 1395 2nd Ave

A Tex-Mex restaurant, Javelina, serves up tacos, fajitas, great cocktails, and more. The kids's menu offers a delightful selection of bites alongside the usual Tex-Mex favorites.

2. EJ’s Luncheonette

Location: 1271 3rd Ave

EJ’s Luncheonette is a neighborhood staple for breakfast, lunch, or dinner staple. From jumbo flapjacks to fresh salads, there's something for every family member.

3. Green Kitchen

Location: 1619 2nd Ave

Green Kitchen offers a vast selection of delicious Modern American cuisine conveniently located on 2nd Ave. Their Kids Menu boasts everything from hamburgers to baked mac & cheese and milkshakes and don't miss their kid-friendly brunch options!

4. Seamore’s

Location: 1278 3rd Ave
Seamore’s, a relaxed eatery serving sustainable seafood, has a kid-friendly menu crafted "for the guppies." Offering a variety of options, even those not keen on seafood will find something delightful.

At A Nanny Match, our support extends beyond placements. By leveraging our familiarity with NYC, we aim to provide you with the most relevant and helpful information and resources out there. 

From engaging activities to family-friendly eateries, we hope this guide assists you in your adventures through the Upper East Side.

Enjoy the journey, create lasting memories, and count on us to be your reliable nanny agency in the heart of New York City.