After-school activities provide an enriching environment for children to grow intellectually, emotionally, and physically while having fun and building valuable life skills. For young children newly embarking on their journey through school, the quest for a balance between enjoyment and educational value is important. After-school programs for children 5-7 years old range from at-home camps fostering creativity to specialized classes, engaging clubs, and the excitement of sports.
After-School Classes
1. Chess
Chess classes provide a variety of developmental benefits for children ages 5-7 years old. Beyond building critical thinking and problem-solving skills, chess enhances memory, encourages strategic thinking, and improves abilities in math. The game also nurtures social skills, teaching sportsmanship, fair play, and the importance of patience through taking turns. Additionally, chess introduces children to the concepts of planning and concentration, which can positively influence their academic performance.
2. Coding & Computer Classes
For 5-7 year-olds diving into the world of coding and computers, introductory classes that focus on visual programming languages like Scratch Jr. can be incredibly beneficial. These classes often involve interactive and age-appropriate activities that teach the basics of coding through creative projects, like building simple games and animations, which foster early problem-solving skills. Robotics classes, where kids can interact with programmable robots, offer a more hands-on approach to coding, often using LEGO robots that children may have experience with in the classroom.
3. Martial Arts
For 5-7 year-olds that are interested in beginning martial arts, after-school classes like karate or taekwondo are ideal, and focus on basic techniques, coordination, and fundamental movements. These classes emphasize learning discipline, respect, and self-control, and instilling valuable life skills early on. Martial arts also promote the social development that young children need, like learning to work in a group, follow instructions, and build self-confidence.
4. Learn a Musical Instrument
Beginning music classes in piano, violin, and other instruments offer a great start for children ages 5-7 years old that offer basic theory and motor skills in a fun setting. Learning an instrument in early childhood can improve a child’s academic performance in school by enhancing concentration, cognitive skills, and mathematical understanding while fostering discipline and study habits. It also encourages social interaction and teamwork, laying a solid foundation for lifelong musical appreciation and achievement.
After-School Activities Kids Can Do At Home
5. Art Projects and Classes
At-home art projects like painting, sculpting with clay, collage-making, drawing, and simple crafts offer 5-7 year olds opportunities for creativity, fine motor skill development, and self-expression. Painting with watercolors or acrylics on paper or canvas allows children to experiment with colors and textures, while also developing fine motor skills. Additionally, simple crafts such as making friendship bracelets, paper airplanes, or homemade cards not only provide fun creative outlets but also promote dexterity and problem-solving that young children need.
6. Family Cooking
For 5-7 year-olds, simple and safe cooking activities can be both educational and enjoyable! Making no-heat after-school treats like fruit kebabs or yogurt parfaits allows them to practice basic food assembly and encourages healthy eating habits. Baking cookies or muffins with pre-measured ingredients provides a hands-on experience and teaches them about following instructions and kitchen safety, and tasks like washing vegetables and stirring ingredients instill a sense of responsibility and teamwork. These cooking activities not only introduce children to culinary skills but also promote confidence, independence, and an appreciation for cooking at a young age. Check out these age-appropriate cooking tips for children of all ages, and have kids try out online cooking classes to get more experience in the kitchen.
7. Get into Gaming!
Classic board games like Candy Land or Chutes and Ladders offer simple rules and colorful designs that are the perfect after-school activity for kids aged 5-7 years old. Make it a family game night, or have kids try joining in the rising popularity of an online Dungeons & Dragons class, which introduces kids to cooperative storytelling, problem-solving, and critical thinking in a fantasy setting, encouraging creativity and collaboration. These diverse games provide opportunities for children to learn, explore, and have fun in a supportive and engaging environment.
After-School Activities that Get Kids Outdoors
8. After-School Sports
Team sports like soccer or baseball teach young children the importance of teamwork, communication, and cooperation, while also promoting motor skills and coordination. Individual sports like swimming, gymnastics, or martial arts offer opportunities for personal growth, discipline, and goal-setting. Engaging in sports at a young age instills healthy habits, encourages an active lifestyle, and boosts self-esteem through skill development and achievement. Additionally, participation in sports helps children build resilience, learn sportsmanship, and develop friendships, laying a foundation for lifelong physical and mental well-being.
9. After-School Sports
After-school outdoor adventure and nature activities are great for this age group. From exploring local parks to engaging in nature crafts, gardening, and outdoor games. These experiences not only provide fun and learning but also foster a deeper connection with the environment. Spending time outdoors offers numerous benefits, including improved physical health, reduced stress levels, enhanced cognitive development, and increased creativity and teamwork skills. By immersing themselves in nature, young children develop a greater appreciation for the natural world while gaining valuable life skills and memories that will last a lifetime.
Free & Low-Cost After-School Activities
10. On Demand Classes
Find parent-approved boredom-busters your kids can do anytime, anywhere. ActivityHero has a wide variety of on-demand activities such as math worksheets, learn to draw videos, fun science experiments, learn to play musical instruments like piano, guitar etc., coding and video game projects, and much more.