Picking the Right Club or Hobby for Your Child Choosing a new club or hobby for your child can feel exciting - but also a little overwhelming. With so many options available, where do you even begin? The good news is that children’s clubs today are more varied than ever, meaning there truly is something for every personality, interest and ability. Here’s a guide to help you explore the possibilities and find the perfect fit. Sport & Movement For active children who love to burn energy, sports and movement clubs offer countless benefits - from fitness and coordination to teamwork and resilience. Beyond the classic sports, there’s a whole world of alternatives to try: athletics and running clubs, trampolining, cheerleading, parkour, climbing, table tennis, badminton, rugby, cricket, hockey, netball, rounders, skateboarding, scootering, cycling, fencing, archery, youth bowling and orienteering. These options are brilliant for kids who want something a little different or who thrive on movement in all forms. Creative & Arts-Based Clubs If your child comes alive when creating, consider clubs that nurture imagination. Art classes, pottery workshops, painting, drawing, music lessons, youth choirs, creative writing, photography, filmmaking, animation, all spark curiosity and build confidence. These clubs are perfect for children who love to express themselves or enjoy working with their hands and minds in inventive ways. STEM & Academic Adventures For children who enjoy exploring how things work, STEM clubs offer hands-on learning in an exciting format. Coding, robotics, science clubs, maths puzzles, chess, astronomy, nature explorers, electronics, 3D printing and CAD sessions help young minds make sense of the world while developing problem-solving skills. Outdoor & Adventure If your child prefers muddy boots and fresh air, outdoor clubs provide unforgettable experiences. Scouts, Girlguiding, forest school, bushcraft, angling, kayaking, sailing, wildlife ranger clubs, mountain biking, orienteering and horse riding are fantastic for confidence, independence and resilience. Social, Confidence & Life Skills Some clubs focus on communication, leadership and wellbeing. Drama for confidence, public speaking, first aid courses, mindfulness, yoga and youth volunteering help children build life skills that will benefit them for years to come. Tech, Gaming & Media For digital creatives, esports (gaming) clubs, game design, Minecraft groups, 3D modelling, YouTube workshops and graphic design sessions offer structured, safe ways to explore growing interests. Practical Skills Practical clubs like cooking, baking, sewing, gardening or junior carpentry teach everyday skills in a fun, hands-on environment. Need help finding a club? Just ask! If your child has a club they LOVE & would like to be featured in the next Raring2go! magazine, please tell me about it via kidderminster@raring2go.co.uk - I’d be delighted to include it soon! Some activities above may not yet have weekly clubs in our area, or may only be available for older children. If you can’t find a local class, try looking in nearby places such as Halesowen or Bromsgrove, enjoy simple versions of the hobby at home together, or explore holiday clubs and after-school sessions where many offer a brilliant “taster menu” of sports, crafts and new experiences. Local libraries may be an option for Lego/STEM If your child attends a club or class they LOVE and would like to write a review to be featured in Raring2go! please tell me about it via wolverhampton@raring2go.co.uk They could win a £10 National Book Token! 18 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! CLUBS & CLASSES
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