What exactly is Kinship?

Think of us as your neighborhood learning hub where kids discover what they're capable of. Local makers and our experienced staff (led by Miss Rebecca) teach real skills through hands-on projects. While your kids are learning to use actual tools and create real things, you're connecting with other Newburgh families who get it—parenting is better when we do it together.

Do I need a membership to participate?

Nope! You can drop in for individual classes or workshops. But members get perks: priority registration (popular stuff fills fast), access to members-only weekend programs, discounts on additional programs, and that feeling of being part of something, not just visiting.

What ages do you serve?

Everyone! We have toddler open play (ages 1-3 with caregivers), kids' programs (ages 5-12), family workshops (all ages together), and adults-only events like Parents' Night Out. Each program listing shows the appropriate age range.

What's this about a pop-up?

We're running as a month-long pop-up from August 15-31, 2025. Consider it a community experiment. If families love what we're building together (and we think you will), we'll work toward making Kinship a permanent part of Newburgh.

How does pricing work?

We offer several options: drop-in rates for single classes, class packs (bundles of classes at a discount, good for 30 days), and monthly memberships with the best value. Launch weekend (August 2-4) everything's 30% off. Credit cards through Sawyer, our registration system. Cash works for snacks at events.

How do I get started?

Head to hisawyer.com and search "Kinship." Browse, click, register. Or stop by during the day and we'll walk you through it. Register early—our small class sizes mean spots fill up fast, especially for Kids Night Out and family portraits.

What types of programs do you actually offer?

We have two main tracks: Creative Track (art, music, drama with real materials and techniques) and Practical Track (cooking, woodworking, sewing with actual tools). Plus toddler open play, family workshops, Parents' Night Out, Kids' Night Out, and special events. Everything is hands-on—kids learn by doing, not watching.

Where are you located?

Our home base is at 199 South Street. When the weather's nice, you'll often find us across the street at the corner of Du Bois and South Street for outdoor adventures. Free street parking plus a small lot behind the building.

What are your hours?

Monday through Friday, 8am to 6pm. Weekends vary, but Saturday mornings usually mean family programming, and Saturday nights from 6-9pm are Parents Night Out (yes, really). Check the schedule on Sawyer for specific program times.

Wait, so this isn't daycare?

Nope. We're not licensed as a daycare or camp. Think of us as your neighborhood skills workshop where kids drop in for focused 2.5-hour sessions to build, create, and learn. No all-day drop-offs here—just intentional programming designed to teach real skills.

Do I need to stay during programs?

Most programs are drop-off (freedom!). Toddler Open Play needs you there, and Sunday family events are designed for everyone. Otherwise, go grab that coffee. We'll give you the highlights at pickup—what your child made, any breakthrough moments, maybe a funny story.

What if my kid has never done anything like this?

Absolutely fine. Most kids haven't! Miss Rebecca has a gift for helping children feel comfortable trying new things. We start slow, let kids watch if they need to, and always have quieter options available. No pressure, just opportunity. Sometimes the shyest kids surprise us all.

Is it actually safe? Real tools?

Yes and yes. Kids use real cooking knives (with supervision), actual hammers (with instruction), genuine sewing needles (with patience). Safety is built into everything. Our staff has CPR and First Aid training. Miss Rebecca knows exactly how to teach tool use to kids. They're more capable than you might think.

How messy will my child get?

Let's be honest: hands-on learning can be messy. That's kind of the point. We use smocks and try to contain the chaos, but send your kids in play clothes. Save the fancy stuff for picture day.

What happens to unused classes at month's end?

Membership classes are use-them-or-lose-them each month. But those class packs you can buy separately? Those are good for 30 days from purchase, giving you more flexibility.

Can grandparents or babysitters do pickup?

Absolutely. Just make sure they're on your approved pickup list and that they know any special instructions for your child. We only release children to adults on your approved list. Don't know someone personally? We're checking ID. No exceptions.

What if my kid wakes up sick?

Keep them home. Please. Other families will thank you. Give us 24 hours notice to reschedule or we'll credit you for the illness-related absence. We follow current health guidelines and keep things clean.

What's happening at the August 2nd kickoff?

Free community fun from 9-11:30am at Du Bois and South Street corner (outdoor play), then tour our space at 199 South Street from noon to 1pm. Meet us, ask questions, sign up for August with special launch discounts.

How do Kids Night Out and Parents Night Out work?

Kids Night Out (Fridays 6-8pm): Your kids have supervised fun while you have dinner without cutting anyone's food. Parents Night Out (Saturdays 6-9pm): Adults only. Make some grown-up friends. Remember what that's like?

Can I teach something?

We'd love that! Email kinshipnewburgh@gmail.com with your skills and interest. Local makers and experts are what make Kinship special.

How do families actually connect here?

It happens naturally. Parents chat during toddler programs. Families meet at Sunday events. Kids introduce their grown-ups at pickup. Before you know it, you're coordinating carpools.

How will I know about changes or updates?

We'll email you directly. Follow @kinshipnewburgh on Instagram for daily glimpses and updates. We keep communication simple and clear. Questions during the month? Email kinshipnewburgh@gmail.com or ask at pickup. We respond within 24 hours.

What's your refund policy?

Life happens, we get it. Cancel membership 7 days before it starts for a full refund. Individual classes need 24 hours notice. Already started? No refunds, but we'll work with you on medical emergencies.