Does your child love to play video games like Minecraft, Fortnite and Rocket League? Do they like to design their own graphics and make videos? Why not enable them to share their creative passions and interests with their peers?
This fall season, Affinity Esports in Newtown (27 Glen Rd. Main Floor, Sandy Hook) has a diverse weekly line-up of programs, clubs and game nights for kids and teens ages 7-17. Whether your child is interested in learning new skills in game content creation like video editing, coding and design or looking to casually meet up with friends to play games recreationally (or competitively!), there's something for everyone -- no matter what their skill level! And parents -- rest assured that Affinity Esports blends wellness, education and inclusivity into every aspect of their programs to ensure a positive, safe and nurturing community for gamers of every age.
For the session-based classes, the very first meeting is an open house where parents can attend alongside their child to meet the instructor and see the space before committing!
PLUS, Macaroni Kid Readers save 10% when registering for ANY fall program
Just use code 26MACKID10 at checkout. EXPIRES OCTOBER 31, 2026.
REGISTER FOR ALL FALL PROGRAMS HERE!
WEEKLY EDUCATIONAL CLASSES
10-week session: September 21- December 9
(Classes run 5pm-6:30pm; no classes Thanksgiving week)
Content Creation: Live Streaming & Video Editing (Free open house Monday, September 21st)
Participants learn how digital content moves from idea to finished piece. Through hands-on projects, they explore live-stream setup, scenes and overlays, cameras, microphones, lighting, audio, gameplay capture, and basic video editing. They also practice planning content, communicating responsibly online, giving and receiving feedback, and presenting their work. No prior experience is required, and the class is a starting point for future Affinity media programs. Cost: $250 for the 10-week session. Runs Sept. 21 - Dec. 7. Register here.
Game Creation: Coding & Pixel Art (Free open house Tuesday, September 22nd)
Participants learn how games come together through beginner-friendly coding, game design, and pixel art. They build a simple game project, create original characters and artwork, and test and improve their work with classmates. Along the way, they practice problem-solving, planning, persistence, collaboration, and basic computer skills. The program concludes with a showcase for family and friends. No prior experience is required. Cost: $250 for the 10-week session. Runs Sept. 22 - Dec. 8. Register here.
D&D and Tabletop Gaming (Free Open House Wednesday, September 23rd)
Participants explore Dungeons & Dragons and a rotating mix of tabletop games in a welcoming, social setting. They create characters, learn rules and strategy, and work together through an ongoing adventure guided by a Game Master. Along the way, they practice imagination, storytelling, problem-solving, patience, cooperation, and speaking up in a group. New and experienced players are welcome, and the season concludes with a finale families are invited to attend. Cost: $250 for the 10-week session. Runs Sept. 23 - Dec. 9. Register here.
SCHOOL DAY OFF CAMPS
- Single-Day Gamers' Retreat (September 21, October 5 and November 3). Runs 9:00am to 3:00pm. Cost: $90/day. Before and after-care are available for an additional cost. Register here.
- Half-Day Afternoon School Camp (November 4, 5 and 6th and December 23). Runs 1:30 to 4:30pm. Cost: $45/afternoon. Register here.
- Winter Break Gamers' Retreat (December 28 - December 31). Runs 9:00am to 4:30pm daily. Cost: $300 for the week. Register here.
WEEKLY STUDIO CLUBS AND GAME NIGHTS
(Running Now)
Social Gaming Club (Every Thursday, 5-8pm)
Social Gaming Club at Affinity Esports brings together players of all skill levels for shared play, teamwork, and community. Each week features a rotating mix of games, friendly competition, team challenges, and time to connect with a familiar group. Select sessions introduce coached competitive-shooter fundamentals, while designated family sessions invite parents or caregivers to play alongside participants and better understand the games they enjoy. Cost: $45/person per night. Season pass for $350; Bundle with Youth Game Night for $600. Register here.
Youth Game Night (Every Friday, 6-9pm)
Youth Game Night at Affinity Esports is a supervised Friday evening for gaming, pizza, and time with friends. Players of all skill levels can explore a wide range of games, meet other young gamers, and enjoy friendly, low-pressure fun. It is an easy way to experience the Affinity community while parents and caregivers enjoy an evening of their own. Pizza and soft drinks are included. Cost: $45/person per night. Season pass is $350. Bundle with Social Gaming Club for $600. Register here.
COMPETITIVE CLUB TEAMS
Saturdays, September 28 - December 13
(FREE Workshops and Trials Sept. 12, 19 and 26th)
For youth players looking to challenge themselves, improve their skills and compete as part of a team-driven environment, Affinity Esports is proud to offer a growing, structured Competitive Club program. Last year there were more than 60 players across the Affinity Esports club teams!
Teams for the fall season will be forming in Fortnite (Squads and Duos), Smash Ultimate, Rocket League, Marvel Rivals, Minecraft Bedwars and Valorant. Not only do players get to experience their own Media Day (October 3) but they are also honored at the end-of-season banquet on December 13.
FREE Workshops and trials will be held Saturdays 9/12, 9/19 and 9/26 from 1-6pm (in studio or virtually) with the competitive season running September 28 - December 13 which includes Saturday practice blocks from 1-6pm. No competitive experience necessary and all players leave with feedback. Cost: $750 for the season. Register here.
Macaroni Kid Readers save 10% when registering for ANY fall program
Just use code 26MACKID10 at checkout. EXPIRES OCTOBER 31, 2026.
REGISTER FOR ALL FALL PROGRAMS HERE!
Founded in 2021, Affinity Esports is Connecticut’s premier organization for healthier gaming. With studios in Newtown and Milford, they are on a mission to create safe spaces that deliver holistic experiences for all gamers, achieving this through structured programming that increases accessibility, community education, and inclusion. By elevating the long-term benefits of esports to the forefront of discussions and normalizing people's passion, Affinity Esports has created an engaging community of gamers and advocates who are committed to balancing wellness, education, mentality, competition, and socialization. They have a distinct focus on growing esports across Connecticut.
Through their recreational programs, children are introduced to the world of esports, full of new and emerging career paths, experiential learning, and highly engaging social activities. Each of these programs has been structured to reinforce critical life skills, such as teamwork, communication, and problem solving. Through their time with us, we will guide children to build healthy habits and harness their passion with an extreme commitment to balancing wellness, education, mentality, competition, and socialization. Esports have been linked to powerful outcomes, such as improved social and emotional skills, problem solving, future career viability, and academic performance.
For more information about Affinity Esports, visit https://www.affinityesports.gg/ and follow on Facebook, Twitter, Twitch, TikTok or Discord.
