Wine, Train, Prep and Paint: Adult Education Like You've Never Seen It

Back-to-School season is right around the corner, and while many New Canaan parents are exhaling sighs of relief, at least a few are entering panic mode. With summer coming to and end, what can you do to avoid boredom while the kids are in class or at practice?  

Luckily, there are plenty of opportunities in and around town to take on a class of your own. Pick up a new hobby or improve your skills at one of these five spots offering exciting classes for adults this fall.

The YMCA in town offers a number of recreational classes for youth and adults including group exercise and one-on-one personal training and nutrition consultations. In response to the latest fitness trends, private and semi-private pilates apparatus classes were added to that list over the past two years. This winter, TRX suspension training — a revolutionary method of leveraged bodyweight exercise used by Navy Seals — is making its way to the Y. Certified trainers will take you through a group training protocol to build power, strength, flexibility and balance for your best body ever. This is a class that will definitely be worth your while.

Located in the quaint Silvermine neighborhood, Silvermine Guild Arts Center offers hundreds of options in creative arts classes for people at all skill levels.  Try your hand at glass bead making, photography or watercolor painting, for instance, or expand a skill you already have by exploring different mediums and approaches under the guidance of art school instructors.

Sugar and Olives Prep School 

Anyone who has ever had the pleasure of dining at Sugar and Olives for breakfast or lunch swears by their wholesome and healthy crepes and small plates. This fall, join the restaurant’s Prep School and learn to recreate these delectable dishes in your own home.  Classes are held from 7-9 p.m. at the Norwalk location on Tuesdays with themes and menus changing weekly. Each class includes a lot of food — so be sure to come hungry! 

Barcelona has become a favorite dining destination in Fairfield County for its delicious tapas and comprehensive wine list from around the world. As experts of the trade, Barcelona began offering wine seminars with all-inclusive tastings that explore various regional flavors, ideal food pairings, and the effects of different wine-making techniques. Classes rotate between Stamford, SoNo, Fairfield, and Greenwich locations in Fairfield County. Visit the Barcelona website to view their monthly class calendar.

Curious about organic gardening? Ever wanted to beat on tribal hand drums like a pro? Or maybe you're more interested in brushing up on some basic investment banking skills. These are just a few of the diverse options offered within NCC's extended studies program —where there is truly a course for everyone. Be sure to check out the Fall course schedule, now available at NCC and discover a passion you never knew you had.