The Early Ear, New York

As any parents who've found themselves replacing careworn Wiggles albums or humming along with an accidentally memorized Raffi tune can attest, children are hardwired with a natural love of music. At The Early Ear, a staff of dedicated instructors nurtures this budding appreciation by encouraging musical curiosity and imagination. Their music programs—which are suitable for kids from 4 months to 5 years old—engage young minds, with sing-along activities and group exploration of the violin, guitar, accordion, cello, and other folk instruments. The teachers also show students the basics of reading music and decode the subtle jokes left in each of Beethoven's symphonies. Kids can also experience the power of music through dance classes, which teach them to express themselves through movement and eventually link steps together in order to flaunt new moves for their friends and family at the end of the course.