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I LOVE Love Love LOVEEEEE extracurricular activities for kids.
Obviously, you have to have balance and free time, but it’s actually super cool to be able to put your kids in an activity and have them learn new skills without your intervention.
It’s a break for them, it’s a break for you. It’s literally a win-win.
But what kind of activities are there for kids? I’ve got a list of 66 ideas for you…I hope you find something for you and your family!
Awesome Extracurricular Activities For Kids
Soccer
Soccer is an awesome extracurricular activity for kids as it promotes physical fitness, teamwork, and discipline. It builds essential motor skills and coordination while fostering a sense of camaraderie among young players. Soccer also teaches valuable life lessons like sportsmanship, perseverance, and leadership, creating well-rounded individuals both on and off the field.
Basketball
Basketball is an awesome extracurricular activity for kids due to its fast-paced nature and numerous benefits. It enhances cardiovascular health, agility, and hand-eye coordination. Through teamwork and strategy, kids learn essential communication and problem-solving skills. Basketball fosters self-confidence and discipline, instilling a strong work ethic and a passion for the sport, leading to a lifetime of active engagement.
Baseball/Softball
Baseball/Softball is an awesome extracurricular activity for kids with a timeless appeal. It promotes physical fitness, hand-eye coordination, and motor skills. Playing as a team teaches cooperation, communication, and sportsmanship. Kids learn to handle success and failure gracefully, building resilience and character. Baseball/Softball nurtures a love for the game, fostering lifelong friendships and a sense of community.
Swimming
Swimming is an awesome extracurricular activity for kids, offering a unique set of benefits. It is a full-body workout that enhances cardiovascular fitness and muscle strength. It builds water safety skills, boosting confidence in and around water. Swimming instills discipline, perseverance, and goal-setting, as young swimmers strive to improve their techniques and speed. The joy of swimming creates a lifelong love for water activities and a healthier lifestyle.
Tennis
Tennis is an awesome extracurricular activity for kids, providing a perfect blend of physical fitness and mental agility. It improves hand-eye coordination, balance, and reflexes. Tennis fosters sportsmanship and fair play, as players learn to respect opponents and officials. The individual nature of the sport encourages self-reliance and responsibility. With its social and competitive aspects, tennis offers a fun and rewarding experience that can last a lifetime.
Martial arts (Karate, Taekwondo, Judo, etc.)
Martial arts (Karate, Taekwondo, Judo, etc.) are awesome extracurricular activities for kids, combining physical fitness and character development. This was our first after school activity for my oldest child when he was only 4 (AWEEEE)
They enhance strength, flexibility, and coordination while teaching self-defense skills. Martial arts instill discipline, respect, and focus, improving concentration and self-control.
Kids learn the value of perseverance, setting goals, and overcoming challenges, building confidence and a strong sense of accomplishment.
Martial arts also promote a positive and respectful attitude toward others, creating well-rounded individuals with valuable life skills.
Gymnastics
Gymnastics is an awesome extracurricular activity for kids, offering a myriad of physical and mental benefits.
It develops strength, flexibility, and coordination, fostering excellent body awareness. Gymnastics builds confidence as kids master new skills and routines.
The sport instills discipline and determination, encouraging young gymnasts to strive for perfection and improve continuously.
Gymnastics also promotes teamwork and camaraderie in a supportive and fun environment, laying the foundation for a lifelong appreciation of fitness and athleticism.
Dance (Ballet, Hip-Hop, Jazz, etc.)
This was my choice of activity growing up! Dance (Ballet, Hip-Hop, Jazz, etc.) is an awesome extracurricular activity for kids, combining artistic expression with physical fitness. It enhances flexibility, balance, and coordination while promoting grace and poise.
Dance boosts self-confidence as kids learn and perform routines, receiving applause for their hard work. It encourages creativity and imagination, allowing young dancers to express themselves through movement.
Dance also fosters a sense of belonging and camaraderie as kids collaborate and support each other, creating lasting friendships and a lifelong appreciation for the arts.
Chess club
My oldest son is really into Chess. Chess club is an awesome extracurricular activity for kids, offering a unique blend of mental stimulation and strategic thinking.
It sharpens critical and analytical skills, improving concentration and problem-solving abilities.
Chess instills patience and foresight as kids plan their moves and anticipate their opponent’s actions. The club environment promotes camaraderie and sportsmanship, fostering a sense of community and friendly competition.
Chess club not only enhances cognitive abilities but also creates a lifelong passion for this timeless game of intellect.
Robotics club
Another one my kids LOVE. Robotics club is an awesome extracurricular activity for kids, combining STEM learning with creativity and teamwork. It fosters a passion for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Kids develop problem-solving and programming skills, creating robots that perform various tasks. Robotics club encourages collaboration as members work together to achieve shared goals.
It sparks innovation and curiosity, inspiring young minds to explore the world of robotics and automation, which are essential skills for the future.
Coding/Programming club
Yet another one of our ABSOLUTE favorite activities. Coding/Programming club is an awesome extracurricular activity for kids, offering a world of endless possibilities. It cultivates a love for technology and computer science.
Kids learn to write code, develop software, and create websites and games. Coding enhances logical thinking and problem-solving abilities, fostering computational and analytical skills. The club environment encourages teamwork, collaboration, and peer support as young coders share knowledge and tackle challenges together.
Coding/Programming club nurtures innovation, empowering kids to shape the digital world and pursue exciting career opportunities in the future.
Science club
Science club is an awesome extracurricular activity for kids, igniting a passion for exploration and discovery. It encourages a love for the natural world and scientific inquiry. Kids engage in hands-on experiments and projects, honing their observation and critical thinking skills.
Science club fosters curiosity and creativity, inspiring young scientists to ask questions and seek answers. It promotes teamwork and communication as members collaborate on research and presentations.
Science club empowers kids to become future problem solvers and innovators, contributing to advancements in science and making a positive impact on society.
Art club
Art club is an awesome extracurricular activity for kids, unlocking their creativity and imagination. It provides a safe space to explore various art forms like drawing, painting, sculpting, and more. Kids express themselves through colors and shapes, building self-confidence and self-expression. Art club fosters appreciation for aesthetics and cultural diversity, nurturing a lifelong love for the arts.
Drama club
Drama club is an awesome extracurricular activity for kids, sparking their passion for the performing arts. It cultivates self-expression and public speaking skills through acting, improvisation, and stage performances. Kids develop empathy as they portray diverse characters and understand different perspectives.
Drama club fosters teamwork and camaraderie, creating a supportive and inclusive environment. It builds self-confidence and resilience, empowering young actors to shine on and off the stage, embracing their creativity and unique talents.
Music lessons (Piano, Guitar, Violin, etc.)
Music lessons (Piano, Guitar, Violin, etc.) are an enriching extracurricular activity for kids, nurturing a lifelong love for music.
Learning an instrument enhances discipline, concentration, and fine motor skills. Kids explore their artistic expression and emotional depth through melodies and rhythms.
Music lessons foster a sense of achievement and pride as they progress and master their chosen instrument. It’s a joyous journey of self-discovery and creativity.
Cooking classes
Cooking classes are an enriching extracurricular activity for kids, introducing them to the culinary world with fun and educational experiences.
Kids learn essential kitchen skills, safety measures, and nutrition knowledge. Cooking classes ignite their creativity as they experiment with flavors and ingredients, building a sense of accomplishment with each delicious dish they create.
It fosters a lifelong appreciation for good food and encourages healthy eating habits, empowering young chefs to share their culinary talents with family and friends.
Photography club
Photography club is an inspiring extracurricular activity for kids, capturing the world through a lens of creativity and perspective. Kids develop a keen eye for detail and composition, exploring various photographic techniques.
The club nurtures storytelling and self-expression through images, allowing young photographers to share their unique viewpoints with the world. It cultivates an appreciation for art, nature, and the beauty in everyday life, fostering a lifelong passion for photography.
Debate club
Debate club is an empowering extracurricular activity for kids, honing their critical thinking and communication skills.
Kids research and present arguments on various topics, learning to articulate their ideas effectively. The club fosters respectful discourse and open-mindedness, encouraging students to understand different perspectives and develop persuasive reasoning.
Debate club instills confidence and self-assurance, preparing young debaters for success in academics and beyond.
Creative writing club
Creative writing club is a captivating extracurricular activity for kids, unleashing their imagination and literary talent. Kids explore different writing styles, from poetry to short stories. The club nurtures self-expression and storytelling skills, fostering a love for words and language.
It encourages peer feedback and support, building a vibrant community of young writers. Creative writing club inspires a lifelong love for literature and empowers kids to find their voice through the written word.
Model UN
Model UN is an engaging extracurricular activity for kids, simulating the United Nations’ diplomatic sessions. It develops critical thinking, negotiation, and public speaking abilities.
Kids represent different countries, gaining insights into global issues and cultural perspectives. The experience cultivates leadership and teamwork, fostering international awareness and a sense of global citizenship.
Model UN empowers young delegates to tackle real-world challenges and aspire to make a positive impact on the world.
Scouting (Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts)
Scouting (Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts) is an enriching extracurricular activity for kids, promoting character development and outdoor adventures.
It instills values like leadership, integrity, and service to others. Scouts learn essential survival and camping skills, fostering a love for nature and the environment.
The experience creates lasting friendships and memories, building well-rounded individuals with a sense of community and responsibility.
Community service projects
Community service projects are an impactful extracurricular activity for kids, instilling empathy and compassion.
Engaging in volunteer work teaches the value of giving back and making a difference in the lives of others.
Kids learn to address social issues and work collaboratively for positive change. Community service projects build character, empathy, and a sense of responsibility towards the community, fostering a lifelong commitment to helping others and creating a better world.
Environmental club
Environmental club is a transformative extracurricular activity for kids, promoting environmental awareness and sustainability.
Kids engage in eco-friendly initiatives, conservation projects, and waste reduction efforts. The club nurtures a love for nature, inspiring young environmentalists to protect the planet and advocate for a greener future.
Yoga for kids
Yoga for kids is a fantastic extracurricular activity that combines physical and mental well-being. It enhances flexibility, balance, and relaxation techniques.
Kids learn mindfulness and stress management, improving focus and self-awareness. Yoga fosters a positive body image and self-confidence, promoting a healthy and balanced lifestyle from an early age.
Pottery and ceramics
Pottery and ceramics offer a therapeutic and creative extracurricular activity for kids. It develops fine motor skills and artistic expression.
Kids learn to shape clay into unique creations, fostering patience and attention to detail. Pottery and ceramics instill a sense of accomplishment, as young artists witness their ideas come to life in tangible forms.
Gardening club
Gardening club is a rewarding extracurricular activity that connects kids with nature and promotes sustainable practices. It teaches horticulture skills, plant care, and environmental stewardship. Kids witness the beauty of growth and learn the value of nurturing living things.
Gardening club instills responsibility and an appreciation for the natural world, fostering a lifelong love for gardening and ecological awareness.
Magic tricks and illusions
Magic tricks and illusions offer a captivating extracurricular activity for kids, igniting their fascination with mystery and wonder. Kids learn sleight of hand, optical illusions, and showmanship, entertaining and amazing audiences.
The art of magic builds confidence and public speaking skills, creating young performers who delight and inspire others.
Origami and paper crafts
Origami and paper crafts provide a delightful extracurricular activity, combining artistry and precision. Kids create intricate paper sculptures, enhancing fine motor skills and creativity.
Origami fosters patience and problem-solving as they follow complex folding patterns. The activity instills a sense of accomplishment and pride, resulting in a display of beautiful handmade creations.
Science experiments at home
Science experiments at home are an engaging extracurricular activity for kids, turning everyday items into fascinating learning opportunities.
Kids explore scientific concepts, conducting experiments that spark curiosity and critical thinking. This hands-on approach to science promotes a love for learning and discovery, encouraging young scientists to explore and question the world around them.
Astronomy club
Astronomy club is an awe-inspiring extracurricular activity, igniting a passion for the cosmos and celestial wonders.
Kids observe planets, stars, and constellations, deepening their understanding of the universe. Astronomy fosters scientific inquiry and astronomical knowledge, inspiring future astronomers and space enthusiasts. The club encourages stargazing and appreciation for the vastness of the universe.
Sewing and knitting
Sewing and knitting offer a gratifying extracurricular activity for kids, cultivating patience and creativity. Kids learn essential sewing techniques and knitting patterns, creating unique and practical items. These crafts instill a sense of accomplishment and self-sufficiency, encouraging young artisans to express their style and make thoughtful gifts for others.
Animal care club (volunteering at animal shelters)
Animal care club, through volunteering at animal shelters, is a rewarding extracurricular activity that teaches compassion and responsibility. Kids care for and nurture animals in need, fostering empathy and respect for all living beings. The experience promotes awareness of animal welfare and the importance of giving back to the community.
Wilderness survival skills
Wilderness survival skills provide an adventurous extracurricular activity for kids, teaching essential outdoor knowledge. Kids learn navigation, shelter-building, and fire-starting techniques. Wilderness survival fosters self-reliance and resourcefulness, empowering young explorers to confidently face challenges and emergencies in nature.
Woodworking and carpentry
Woodworking and carpentry are empowering extracurricular activities that develop craftsmanship and practical skills. Kids work with tools and materials to create functional and artistic projects. Woodworking nurtures problem-solving and attention to detail, fostering a sense of accomplishment as young builders see their creations come to life.
Film-making and video editing
Film-making and video editing offer an exciting extracurricular activity for kids, unleashing their creativity and storytelling talents. Kids learn camera techniques, scriptwriting, and video editing skills. Film-making instills teamwork and collaboration, enabling young directors to express themselves through visual storytelling and share their perspectives with the world.
Rollerblading/Inline skating
Rollerblading/Inline skating is an exhilarating extracurricular activity for kids, promoting balance and coordination. Kids glide with speed and grace, building confidence and agility. Rollerblading fosters an active lifestyle, allowing young skaters to explore their neighborhood with fun and freedom.
Skateboarding
Skateboarding offers an adventurous extracurricular activity for kids, combining skill and daring. Kids learn tricks and maneuvers, enhancing balance and perseverance. Skateboarding fosters resilience as they master new techniques, creating a sense of individuality and style in this dynamic sport.
Martial arts demonstrations
Martial arts demonstrations are an empowering extracurricular activity that showcases discipline and martial skill. Kids exhibit their training and expertise, inspiring others with their dedication and focus. Martial arts demonstrations encourage self-confidence and leadership, demonstrating the value of hard work and commitment.
Volleyball
Volleyball provides a thrilling team-based extracurricular activity for kids, fostering cooperation and communication. Kids practice serving, setting, and spiking, enhancing their motor skills and strategy. Volleyball builds camaraderie and sportsmanship, creating a supportive and competitive environment where young players grow both individually and as a team.
Rugby
Rugby is an exciting extracurricular activity that instills teamwork and determination. Kids engage in fast-paced gameplay, improving physical fitness and decision-making skills. Rugby fosters respect for opponents and referees, building resilience and camaraderie among players. It’s a sport that embodies both physicality and sportsmanship, creating a strong sense of unity and pride in the team.
Badminton
Badminton offers a thrilling extracurricular activity for kids, honing agility and hand-eye coordination. Kids rally and smash in friendly matches, enhancing their speed and precision. Badminton fosters sportsmanship and resilience, instilling a love for this dynamic racquet sport that can be enjoyed both competitively and recreationally.
Table tennis
Table tennis is an exhilarating extracurricular activity for kids, sharpening reflexes and focus. Kids master their paddle skills and compete in fast-paced matches, enhancing fine motor skills and strategic thinking. Table tennis fosters healthy competition and respect for opponents, providing endless hours of enjoyable play.
Martial arts demonstrations
Martial arts demonstrations showcase discipline and self-defense skills in an empowering extracurricular activity for kids. Young martial artists exhibit their prowess and dedication, inspiring others with their techniques and values. Martial arts demonstrations encourage self-confidence and leadership, embodying the principles of respect and perseverance.
Volleyball
Volleyball provides a dynamic team-based extracurricular activity for kids, promoting cooperation and communication. Kids bump, set, and spike, improving motor skills and teamwork. Volleyball fosters camaraderie and sportsmanship, creating a supportive and competitive environment where young players thrive both individually and as part of a team.
Rugby
Rugby is an exciting extracurricular activity that instills teamwork and determination. Kids engage in fast-paced gameplay, improving physical fitness and decision-making skills. Rugby fosters respect for opponents and referees, building resilience and camaraderie among players. It’s a sport that embodies both physicality and sportsmanship, creating a strong sense of unity and pride in the team.
Badminton
Badminton offers an engaging extracurricular activity for kids, honing agility and hand-eye coordination. Kids rally and compete in spirited matches, enhancing their speed and precision. Badminton fosters sportsmanship and resilience, instilling a love for this fast-paced racquet sport that can be enjoyed both competitively and recreationally.
Table tennis
Table tennis is an exhilarating extracurricular activity for kids, sharpening reflexes and focus. Kids master their paddle skills and compete in fast-paced matches, enhancing fine motor skills and strategic thinking. Table tennis fosters healthy competition and respect for opponents, providing endless hours of enjoyable play.
Archery
Archery is an enchanting extracurricular activity that cultivates focus and precision. Kids learn the art of shooting arrows at targets, improving concentration and patience. Archery fosters a sense of discipline and respect for the sport’s traditions, creating a rewarding experience where young archers develop their skills and confidence.
Horseback riding
Horseback riding offers a captivating extracurricular activity for kids, forging a bond with these majestic animals. Kids learn to ride and care for horses, enhancing balance and communication skills. Horseback riding fosters responsibility and empathy, creating an appreciation for nature and the equestrian world.
Rock climbing
Rock climbing provides an exhilarating extracurricular activity that develops physical strength and problem-solving abilities. Kids scale walls and conquer obstacles, enhancing their agility and confidence. Rock climbing fosters a spirit of adventure and determination, instilling a love for the great outdoors and a sense of accomplishment in reaching new heights.
Skateboarding
Skateboarding is a thrilling extracurricular activity for kids, combining skill and creativity. Kids learn tricks and maneuvers, enhancing balance and perseverance. Skateboarding fosters resilience as they conquer new challenges, developing a sense of individuality and style in this dynamic sport.
Cycling and biking
Cycling and biking offer an invigorating extracurricular activity for kids, promoting physical fitness and exploration. Kids ride and explore their surroundings, improving endurance and coordination. Cycling fosters a sense of adventure and freedom, creating cherished memories and a lifelong love for biking.
Fishing
Fishing provides a serene extracurricular activity that connects kids with nature. Kids learn fishing techniques and patience, enhancing focus and relaxation. Fishing fosters an appreciation for the outdoors and wildlife, creating cherished moments spent by the water, waiting for the perfect catch.
Canoeing/Kayaking
Canoeing/Kayaking offers an exciting extracurricular activity for kids, paddling through waters and exploring new horizons. Kids develop teamwork and navigational skills, enhancing their coordination and appreciation for nature. Canoeing/Kayaking fosters a sense of adventure and ecological awareness, creating memories of shared journeys and discoveries.
Bowling
Bowling is a fun extracurricular activity that promotes friendly competition and camaraderie. Kids learn bowling techniques and teamwork, enhancing their motor skills and strategic thinking. Bowling fosters sportsmanship and a spirit of togetherness, creating enjoyable moments with friends and family at the lanes.
Ice skating
Ice skating offers an enchanting extracurricular activity for kids, combining grace and athleticism. Kids glide and twirl on ice, improving balance and coordination. Ice skating fosters self-confidence and artistic expression, creating magical moments of performance and joy on the ice.
Skiing/Snowboarding
Skiing/Snowboarding provides an exhilarating extracurricular activity for kids, embracing winter sports and adventure. Kids carve down slopes and conquer jumps, enhancing their agility and fearlessness. Skiing/Snowboarding fosters a love for the mountains and nature, creating cherished memories on the snowy slopes.
Swimming
Swimming is a refreshing extracurricular activity that promotes physical fitness and water safety. Kids practice strokes and improve their endurance, enhancing their confidence in the water. Swimming fosters a love for aquatic activities and a sense of accomplishment, creating moments of joy and relaxation in the pool.
Drama and theater productions
Drama and theater productions offer an inspiring extracurricular activity for kids, unleashing their creativity and performance skills. Kids act, sing, and dance on stage, developing self-expression and teamwork. Drama fosters confidence and a love for storytelling, creating memorable experiences of live performances and applause.
Choir and singing groups
Choir and singing groups provide a harmonious extracurricular activity for kids, celebrating the joy of music and vocal expression. Kids sing in unison, enhancing their musical talents and choral skills. Choir fosters a sense of unity and camaraderie, creating uplifting performances that resonate with audiences and create lasting bonds among young singers.
Band and orchestra
Band and orchestra offer a melodic extracurricular activity for kids, fostering musical talent and collaboration. Kids play various instruments, enhancing their musical proficiency and ensemble skills. Band and orchestra instill a love for music and dedication, creating captivating performances and memorable concerts.
School newspaper or yearbook committee
School newspaper or yearbook committee is an informative extracurricular activity that hones journalistic and creative skills. Kids write articles, take photos, and design layouts, enhancing their communication and storytelling abilities. The committee fosters a sense of responsibility and teamwork, producing a record of cherished school memories.
Math club
Math club offers an intellectually stimulating extracurricular activity for kids, exploring mathematical concepts and problem-solving. Kids engage in math puzzles and competitions, enhancing their analytical and logical thinking. Math club fosters a love for numbers and challenges, creating a community of young math enthusiasts who embrace the beauty of mathematics.
Engineering club
Engineering club is an innovative extracurricular activity that sparks curiosity and inventiveness. Kids experiment and design solutions, enhancing their engineering and technical skills. Engineering club fosters creativity and critical thinking, providing a platform for young innovators to tackle real-world problems and engineer a brighter future.
Volunteering at a local charity
Volunteering at a local charity is a heartwarming extracurricular activity that instills compassion and empathy. Kids contribute their time and efforts, enhancing their sense of responsibility and social awareness. Volunteering fosters a love for helping others and making a positive impact on the community, creating lasting bonds with those in need.
Community cleanup and recycling
Community cleanup and recycling offer a meaningful extracurricular activity that promotes environmental consciousness and civic responsibility. Kids participate in cleaning initiatives and recycling efforts, enhancing their environmental stewardship and teamwork. Community cleanup fosters a sense of pride in preserving nature and creating a cleaner, healthier community for all to enjoy.
