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Humpty Dumpty Egg Drop | Young Scholars Academy

September 19, 2024 by Jordan Leave a Comment

 

Mother Goose On the Loose and the Junior Kindergarten program is at it again! This time we’re exploring a science activity and welcome you to follow along!

The supplies within this lesson are pretty preschool-specific but you could use objects around your home to still accomplish or order the kit here;

STEM Starters: Egg Drop 

We planned for this around our science time because we had the kids first hypothesize what they think would happen to the egg. This was  a small, intimate small group session where of course we started by reading Humpty Dumpty, of course! Since many of the students have grown up in the preschool program, they knew the nursery rhyme but were excited about the question. Could YOU break Humpty Dumpty’s fall? With sass, they all knew the egg would drop from the small group discussion but thought they were smart enough to create a barrier!

They then split up into teams to design! We used the STEM starters kit but had each set of kids build their own barrier together, you could use other objects around your home if you’d like too.

Next, on a sheet of paper the kids wrote their predictions! The scientific process can and should be introduced at this age (4.5 years old) since it triggers multiple parts of a child’s brain! They have to think 2 steps ahead, slow down and use their imagination to predict possible outcomes and work together as a team to succeed. That’s a lot for a four year old!

So here’s how it went. Humpty Dumpty had a great fall. Feelings were mixed about the yoke, no pun intended. Glad it was a happy, impactful lesson! curriculum young scholars academy

 

Filed Under: Activities

Mother Goose On The Loose | Young Scholars Academy

September 17, 2024 by Jordan Leave a Comment

PINTEREST YOUNG SCHOLARS ACADEMY

This week at Young Scholars Academy Colorado Springs we’re exploring the timeless mother goose rhymes! For fun, we’ve named the curriculum week, “Mother Goose On The Loose!” This super simple lesson was made with the intention to be recreated at home!

In this lesson you don’t have to use or purchase new socks like we did, but you can explore other ideas with it like Tie Dye or “oldish” socks as well!

Supplies:

  • Socks, a great pair works! We purchased ours from Walmart; 3 pairs for .98 cents!
  • Fabric markers, also purchased from Amazon; prices range from $15.00-$11.99

Other Ideas from home;

-Glitter, patches, tie dye (as previously mentioned), sewing kit, for those that like to incorporate that skill into their households!

As a class, our Junior Kindergarten classroom read through the well-known nursery rhyme “There Was an Old Woman who Lived in a Shoe.” The infamous old woman was first published in an edition of Mother Goose in 1901. Who knew it would still make an impact to this day! since most of the class was “disgusted” that a woman would live in a stinky shoe, we had them decorate their own socks as a barrier. Behold, their creations!

We decided to dedicate an entire week to nursery rhymes because they can expand to so many different parts of a curriculum! Mother Goose encourages, imagination, sound and phonetic repetition, and even introduces the body structure of poems to young children!

With some emphasis on words, and exaggerations, the kids were more than ready to decorate their own socks come academic center time!  If you try this lesson at home, we’d love to hear how much fun your kids had with it!

Encourage them to decorate however they’d like!

Filed Under: Activities

3 Ways To Set Your Preschooler Up For Success | Young Scholars Academy

September 10, 2024 by Young Scholars Academy Leave a Comment

Preschoolers Up For Success
It’s that time of year. You may have just dropped your oldest off to Kindergarten and it was rough. Like ugly tears. Yours, theirs, the ugly ones where you’re really hoping no one you know sees you. You walk back to the car half sobbing from the detach and quickly try to get it together because you still have to parent your 2.5 year old in the backseat oblivious to the heartache.

Kindergarten will come quick for them too ya know?

In what ways can you set them up for success? A preschool program is the best way to have your preschool child grow independence and prep for Kindergarten, and life!

3 Ways To Set Your Preschooler Up For Success| (Next time, without the ugly tears.)

1. Looking Into Social Care:

This could mean a more formal, preschool program or it could be a smaller more intimate program- whichever is going to fit your kids’ personality! Some kids thrive on routine and structure and knowing what’s to expect every day. Some kids are overwhelmed by people in general so, putting them in a program with a lot of tiny humans with no personal space may not be the best fit for them. We definitely encourage to search with your kid in mind!

2. Have Them Attach To Someone Other Than You:

We get it. You are what your kids’ world spins around. It’s the best (and most tiring) feeling in the world that your kid relies on you for each of their needs. A benefit to introducing another caregiver to your child is a shared trust that someone will be there to take care of them! Multiple people in their corner? What a great feeling for a kid!

As parents ourselves, we realize that’s a huge step of faith but it could mean that both you and your child have the opportunity to gain independence apart from each other. It will also make time apart, like Kindergarten for instance, easier because they understand that school is a great place to learn for them!

3. Encourage Independence at Home:

Allowing your preschooler to take on age-appropriate responsibilities at home, such as dressing themselves, cleaning up their toys, or helping with simple tasks, can help them develop independence and confidence.

This can also prepare them for the structured routines of kindergarten and help them feel capable and empowered. Another one we always like to mention is toileting needs. In Kindergarten there is little assistance in that department so break out the brown paint and a balloon to show your kids how to “wipe til there’s no more brown!”

Whether it’s preschool or Kindergarten, big transitions like these can be huge for the whole family. We want to set you and your family up with ideas to support and give confidence to your kids for Kindergarten!

Filed Under: Family Tips, Preschool, Programs & Curriculum

10 Easy Preschool Crafts For Friendship Day: A Craft Guide

June 3, 2024 by Young Scholars Academy Leave a Comment

Preschool crafts for Friendship Day are an excellent way to celebrate the special bonds children create. At Young Scholars Academy, we believe in fostering these connections through creative activities that are both fun and educational.

This guide will share ten easy preschool crafts that inspire creativity and teach critical social-emotional skills. These crafts are designed to be simple, engaging, and perfect for young learners, helping them to express their appreciation and love for their friends.

1. Heartfelt Handprints: Preschool Crafts for Friendship

Handprint crafts are a heartfelt way for preschoolers to celebrate Friendship Day. These preschool crafts for friendship are simple, fun, and a wonderful way to create lasting memories. Here’s how you can help your little ones create meaningful handprint art.

Materials Needed

  • Non-toxic paint (various colors)
  • Large sheets of paper or canvas
  • Brushes or sponges
  • Markers or crayons
  • Wet wipes or a bowl of water for cleaning hands

Steps to Create Heartfelt Handprints

1. Preparation

  • Lay down papers or a plastic sheet to protect the work area.
  • Ensure all materials are within reach.

2. Creating Handprint Art

Paint the Hands:
Have each child choose a color and paint their hands with a brush or sponge. Encourage them to spread their fingers wide for a full handprint
Press on Paper:
Help the children press their painted hands onto the paper or canvas, leaving vibrant handprints.
Add Details:
Once the paint dries, write names and add decorative elements around the handprints with markers or crayons.

3. Design Variations

Handprint Heart:
Arrange two handprints to form the shape of a heart. This symbolizes the love and care between friends
Friendship Wreath:
Create a circle of handprints to form a friendship wreath. Each handprint can be a different color, representing diversity and unity.
Message in the Middle:
Leave space in the center of the handprints for a heartfelt message or quote about friendship.

Displaying the Crafts

Classroom Wall:
Display the handprint art on a classroom wall to create a beautiful and meaningful Friendship Day mural.
Gift for Friends:
Each child can create a handprint piece to give to a friend as a keepsake.
Take-Home Art:
Allow the children to take their creations home to share with their families.
Creating heartfelt handprint art is a joyful and educational activity that fosters friendship and creativity among preschoolers. It’s a perfect way to celebrate Friendship Day and create lasting memories.

2. Friendship Bracelets: Classic Friendship Crafts for Preschool

Making friendship bracelets is a timeless and enjoyable activity that helps preschoolers celebrate their friendships. These simple yet meaningful friendship crafts for preschool promote creativity and fine motor skills. Here’s how you can guide your preschoolers through creating these classic friendship crafts.

Materials Needed

  • Colorful yarn or embroidery floss
  • Beads (optional)
  • Safety scissors
  • Tape or clipboard to hold the thread

Steps to Create Friendship Bracelets

1. Preparation

  • Choose a variety of colorful yarns or embroidery floss.
  • Cut lengths of thread, about 12-18 inches long. For each bracelet, you will need three to four strands.

2. Setting Up

  • Tie a knot at one end of the strands and tape it to a table or secure it with a clipboard.
  • Spread out the strands to begin braiding.

3. Braiding the Bracelet

Simple Braid:
Divide the strands into three sections. Show the children how to cross the outer strands over the middle strand in an alternating pattern.
Adding Beads:
For a more decorative bracelet, add beads by threading them onto the strands as they braid. This enhances fine motor skills and adds a personal touch to each bracelet.
Friendship Knots:
Teach the children to tie simple knots at intervals along the bracelet for a textured look.

4. Finishing the Bracelet

  • Tie a secure knot at the end once the braid is long enough to fit around the wrist.
  • Trim any excess thread, leaving enough to tie the bracelet onto a friend's wrist.

Ways to Exchange Bracelets

Friendship Circle:
Have the children sit in a circle and exchange bracelets with the person next to them.
Friendship Ceremony:
Create a special moment where each child presents their handmade bracelet to a friend, emphasizing the significance of their bond.
Crafting friendship bracelets is a delightful and meaningful activity that celebrates friendship while helping preschoolers develop essential skills. It’s a perfect way to make Friendship Day unique and memorable.

3. Buddy Bookmarks: Fun Friendship Arts and Crafts for Preschool

Making buddy bookmarks is a delightful activity that encourages preschoolers to celebrate their friendships while fostering creativity and fine motor skills. These personalized friendship arts and crafts for preschools are great gifts and serve as a reminder of their special bonds. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating fun and easy buddy bookmarks.

Materials Needed

  • Colorful cardstock or construction paper
  • Markers, crayons, or colored pencils
  • Stickers, glitter, and other decorative items
  • Safety scissors
  • Glue sticks
  • Hole punch
  • Yarn or ribbon
preschool crafts for friendship

Steps to Create Buddy Bookmarks

1. Preparation

  • Cut the cardstock or construction paper into bookmark-sized rectangles, approximately 2 inches by 6 inches.
  • Gather all decorative materials and ensure each child has a workspace.

2. Decorating the Bookmarks

Personalize with Names:
Have each child write their name and their buddy’s name on the bookmark using markers or crayons.
Add Decorations:
Encourage the children to decorate their bookmarks with stickers, drawings, glitter, and other embellishments. They can draw pictures of their favorite activities together or symbols of friendship, such as hearts or smiley faces.

3. Adding a Tassel

  • Punch a hole at the top of the bookmark.
  • Cut a piece of yarn or ribbon about 6 inches long and thread it through the hole to create a tassel. This adds a fun and functional element to the bookmark.
Creating buddy bookmarks is a fun and meaningful way to celebrate Friendship Day, allowing preschoolers to create tangible reminders of their friendships.

4. Friendship Flowers

Friendship flowers are a beautiful and symbolic craft that helps preschoolers express their appreciation for friends. This activity is simple, engaging, and perfect for young children. Here’s how to create friendship flowers.

Materials Needed

  • Colored construction paper
  • Safety scissors
  • Glue sticks
  • Markers or crayons
  • Green pipe cleaners
  • Stickers and other decorative items

Steps to Create Friendship Flowers

Preparation

  • Cut out flower outlines from the construction paper. Each flower should have a circular center and multiple petals.
  • Cut out leaves from green construction paper.

2. Assembling the Flowers

Decorate the Petals:
Have the children write their friends’ names on the petals or draw pictures that represent their friendship. They can also decorate the petals with stickers and drawings.
Create the Stem:
Using glue, attach a green pipe cleaner to the back of the flower. This will be the stem of the flower.
Add Leaves:
Glue the green leaves to the pipe cleaner stem.

3. Creating a Bouquet

  • Have each child make multiple flowers to create a bouquet. This can be a collaborative effort where children exchange flowers to form a collective bouquet representing their friendships.
Friendship flowers are a charming and heartfelt craft that preschoolers will love, making Friendship Day special and memorable.

5. Friendship Rocks

Creating friendship rocks is a fun and meaningful activity that allows preschoolers to express their friendship creatively. These decorated rocks can be shared and displayed, making them a perfect craft for Friendship Day. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making friendship rocks.

Materials Needed

  • Smooth, flat rocks
  • Non-toxic acrylic paint
  • Paintbrushes
  • Markers
  • Mod Podge or clear sealant
  • Newspaper or plastic sheet (to protect the work area)

Steps to Create Friendship Rocks

1. Preparation

  • Wash and dry the rocks to eliminate dirt or debris.
  • Lay down paper or a plastic sheet to protect the work area.

2. Decorating the Rocks

Paint the Base:
Have each child paint the entire rock with a base color. Allow the paint to dry completely.
Add Designs:
Once the primer is dry, the children can use markers or different paint colors to add designs, patterns, and friendship messages to their rocks. Encourage them to draw symbols of friendship-like hearts or smiley faces or write words like “Friend” or “Love.”

3. Sealing the Rocks

  • After the paint and markers have dried, apply a coat of Mod Podge or clear sealant to protect the designs and make the rocks weatherproof. Allow them to dry completely.

4. Sharing and Displaying

  • The children can exchange rocks with their friends or place them in a unique friendship garden at school.
Friendship rocks are a simple yet powerful way for preschoolers to celebrate and cherish friendships.

6. Collaborative Collage

Creating a collaborative collage is an excellent way for preschoolers to work together and celebrate Friendship Day. This group activity emphasizes teamwork and creativity, resulting in a beautiful piece of art that represents their collective effort.

Materials Needed

  • Large poster board or canvas
  • Magazines, colored paper, and fabric scraps
  • Scissors
  • Glue sticks
  • Markers and crayons

Steps to Create a Collaborative Collage

1. Preparation

  • Set up a large work area with all the materials spread out for easy access.
  • Provide each child with a pair of safety scissors and a glue stick.

2. Creating the Collage

Theme Selection:
Discuss and agree on a theme for the collage, such as “Friendship,” “Nature,” or “Our Class.”
Collecting Materials:
Have the children cut out pictures, shapes, and patterns from magazines and colored paper that fit the chosen theme.
Assembling the Collage:
Encourage the children to work together to glue their cut-outs onto the poster board, overlapping and arranging them to create a cohesive and colorful design. They can also draw and add personal touches with markers and crayons.

3. Displaying the Collage

  • Once the collage is complete, display it prominently in the classroom or a common area. This is a visual reminder of the power of collaboration and friendship.
friendship crafts for preschool

Benefits of a Collaborative Collage

Teamwork:
Working together on a common project fosters a sense of teamwork and community.
Creativity:
Children express their creativity through different materials and techniques.
Communication:
The activity encourages communication and idea-sharing among the children.
A collaborative collage is a fantastic way to celebrate Friendship Day, highlighting the beauty of working together to create something special.

7. Buddy Puppets

Creating buddy puppets is an interactive craft that allows preschoolers to explore their creativity and express their friendships through imaginative play. These puppets can be used for storytelling and role-playing, making them a versatile addition to Friendship Day activities.

Materials Needed

  • Paper bags or socks
  • Felt, fabric scraps, and construction paper
  • Glue sticks
  • Markers and crayons
  • Googly eyes
  • Yarn (for hair)
  • Safety scissors

Steps to Create Buddy Puppets

1. Preparation

  • Lay out all the materials on a table for easy access.
  • Provide each child with a paper bag or sock to use as the base of their puppet.

2. Decorating the Puppets

Face and Features:
Have the children draw faces on the paper bags or socks using markers and crayons. They can glue on googly eyes, felt pieces for noses and mouths, and yarn for hair.
Clothing and Accessories:
Encourage the children to use fabric scraps and construction paper to create clothes and accessories for their puppets. They can cut out and glue these pieces to personalize their puppets.

3. Using the Puppets

  • Once the puppets are complete, the children can use them to put on puppet shows, reenact stories, or create their friendship tales. This activity encourages imaginative play and social interaction.

Benefits of Buddy Puppets

Creativity:
Designing and decorating puppets allows children to express creativity.
Fine Motor Skills:
Cutting, gluing, and assembling the puppets help develop fine motor skills.
Imaginative Play:
Using the puppets for storytelling fosters imagination and social skills.
Creating buddy puppets is a fun and engaging way to celebrate Friendship Day, allowing preschoolers to explore their friendships through creative play.

8. Friendship Crowns

Creating friendship crowns is a delightful way for preschoolers to celebrate their friendships. These crowns are easy to make and fun to wear, allowing children to feel like royalty while honoring their friends.

Materials Needed

  • Construction paper or cardstock
  • Markers, crayons, or colored pencils
  • Stickers, glitter, and gems
  • Safety scissors
  • Glue sticks
  • Tape or stapler

Steps to Create Friendship Crowns

1. Preparation

  • Cut the construction paper or cardstock into strips long enough to fit around a child's head. Each child will need two strips to form a complete crown.
  • Set out all the decorative materials.

2. Decorating the Crowns

Personalize the Crowns:
Have each child write their name and their friend’s name on the strips using markers or crayons.
Add Decorations:
Encourage the children to decorate their crowns with stickers, glitter, and gems. They can draw pictures or symbols that represent their friendship, making each crown unique.

3. Assembling the Crowns

  • Tape or staple the ends of the strips together to form a circle that fits comfortably on the child's head.

4. Wearing the Crowns

  • Once the crowns are assembled, the children can wear them during a special Friendship Day ceremony or parade.
preschool crafts for friendship day

9. Best Friends Picture Frames

Making best friends picture frames is a heartfelt and creative activity that allows preschoolers to celebrate their friendships with a tangible keepsake. These frames can hold photos of friends and serve as a cherished memory.

Materials Needed

  • Plain wooden or cardboard frames
  • Paints and paintbrushes
  • Stickers, beads, and gems
  • Glue sticks
  • Markers

Steps to Create Best Friends Picture Frames

1. Preparation

  • Provide each child with a plain frame and set out all the decorative materials.

2. Decorating the Frames

Paint the Frames:
Have the children paint their frames in their favorite colors. Allow the paint to dry completely.
Add Decorations:
Encourage the children to decorate their frames with stickers, beads, and gems. Using markers, they can write friendship messages or their friend’s name on the frame.

3. Inserting Photos

  • Once the frames are decorated and dry, help the children insert photos of themselves with their friends.

4. Sharing and Displaying

  • The children can exchange frames with their friends or take them home to display in their rooms.
Making best friends picture frames is a beautiful way for preschoolers to celebrate Friendship Day, creating a keepsake they can treasure.

10. Friendship Chain

Creating a friendship chain is a collaborative and symbolic craft representing friendship bonds. This simple yet meaningful activity involves making a paper chain, with each link representing a friend.

Materials Needed

  • Colorful construction paper
  • Safety scissors
  • Glue sticks or tape
  • Markers or crayons

Steps to Create a Friendship Chain

1. Preparation

  • Cut the construction paper into strips approximately 1 inch wide and 6 inches long.

2. Decorating the Strips

Write Names:
Have each child write their name and friend’s names on the strips using markers or crayons.
Add Decorations:
Encourage the children to decorate the strips with drawings, stickers, or patterns that represent their friendships.

3. Assembling the Chain

  • Form the first strip into a loop and secure it with glue or tape.
  • Thread the next strip through the first loop and secure it, creating a chain. Continue adding links until all the strips are connected.

4. Displaying the Chain

  • Hang the finished friendship chain in the classroom or a common area to symbolize the children's connections and unity.

Benefits of a Friendship Chain

Collaboration:
Working together to create the chain fosters teamwork and a sense of community.
Symbolism:
The chain represents the strength and continuity of friendships.
Creating a friendship chain is a meaningful and enjoyable way to celebrate Friendship Day. It highlights the importance of each child’s role in their community.

Conclusion

Celebrating Friendship Day with these fun and creative preschool crafts is a fantastic way to help children appreciate and understand the value of their friendships. From heartfelt handprints and friendship bracelets to buddy bookmarks and crowns, each craft offers a unique way for kids to express their love and appreciation for their friends. These activities foster creativity, strengthen social bonds, and develop essential skills.

Ready to get started with our services? Call Young Scholars Academy at (719) 522-9099 or visit our Contact Us page to learn more about our programs and how we can help your child grow and thrive!

Filed Under: Activities, Art Projects, Events

50 After School Activities for Kids in Colorado Springs: The Ultimate Guide

May 24, 2024 by Young Scholars Academy Leave a Comment

Are you looking for engaging after school activities for kids in Colorado Springs? Look no further! This ultimate guide covers 50 fun activities to keep your children active, learning, and thriving outside of school hours. From sports to arts and everything in between, there’s an activity for every child.

Why After School Program Activities Matter

Before we get to the list, let’s first talk about why after school program activities are so important. Engaging in structured activities after school helps children in many ways, such as:

  • Doing better in school
  • Making friends and improving social skills
  • Finding and developing talents and interests
  • Staying active and healthy
  • Staying out of trouble by being busy
Now, let’s go through the amazing after school activities Colorado Springs offers!

Sports and Fitness Fun

Playing sports and staying active is a great way for kids to be healthy. Here are some popular sports your kids should try in Colorado Springs:

Soccer

Get your kids involved in a local soccer team or league, like Colorado Springs Youth Soccer. It’s a great way for them to make friends and learn teamwork.

Basketball

Encourage your children to play basketball at the YMCA, park centers, or private clubs. It’s a fun way to stay active and improve coordination.

Swimming

Sign your kids up for swimming lessons or have them join a swimming team at places like the Colorado Springs Swim School. It’s an important life skill and a great full-body workout.

Gymnastics

Let your little ones explore their flexibility and strength by taking gymnastics classes at gyms like Colorado Springs Gymnastics.

Martial Arts

Kids can learn karate, taekwondo, or jiu-jitsu at local dojos to build self-defense skills and boost their confidence.

Tennis

If your children are interested in racquet sports, they can play tennis or take lessons at clubs like the Broadmoor Tennis Club.

Hiking and Outdoor Fun

Get your kids to join outdoor clubs to explore Colorado Springs’ beautiful nature areas. It’s a wonderful way to appreciate the outdoors and stay fit.

Volleyball

Have your kids join a local Volleyball program.
These sports activities are perfect for keeping your kids moving and teaching them important life skills like perseverance and sportsmanship. Encourage your children to try out these exciting options and find the ones they enjoy the most!

Art and Creativity Activities

Helping your child be creative is just as important as physical activities. Colorado Springs has many artistic activities for kids:

Art and Creativity Activities

Helping your child be creative is just as important as physical activities.

Music Lessons

Let your kids learn an instrument or sing at places like the Colorado Springs Conservatory. It’s a great way for them to express themselves and develop a new skill.

Dance Classes

Encourage your children to take dance classes like ballet, jazz, or hip-hop at studios like Colorado Springs Dance Theatre. They’ll love moving to the rhythm and making new friends.

Art Classes

Sign your kids up for classes where they can learn to draw, paint, or sculpt in places like the Bemis School of Art. It’s a wonderful opportunity for them to get creative and make unique artworks.

Theater and Acting

If your kids love the spotlight, they can be in youth theater shows or take acting classes at places like the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center. It’s a fun way to build confidence and teamwork skills.

Creative Writing

Encourage your children to join writing clubs or workshops at the library to learn storytelling and poetry. It’s a great outlet for their imagination and helps improve their language skills.

Photography and Video

Let your kids learn to take pictures and make videos at local art centers or schools. It’s a fun way for them to capture their world and express their creativity.
Engaging in art activities helps kids be creative, express themselves, and use their imagination.

STEM and Academic Activities

Adding academic activities outside of school can help your child do better in class and enjoy learning. Let your child try these ideas:

Robotics Clubs

Encourage them to build and program robots in school clubs or with the Boy Scouts. It’s a fun way to learn about technology and teamwork.

Science Camps

Send your children to science camps at the Colorado Springs Science Center or Space Foundation Discovery Center. They’ll love hands-on experiments and discovering new scientific concepts.

Math Clubs

Have your kids join math clubs or competitions at school or in the community. It’s a great way to improve their problem-solving skills and make math more engaging.

Chess Clubs

Let them learn to play chess at school, library, or community center chess clubs. It’s a fun strategy game that helps develop critical thinking and concentration.

Debate Teams

If your kids enjoy public speaking, have them join school or community debate teams. It’s an excellent opportunity to practice research skills and learn to articulate their ideas.

Foreign Language

Sign them up for after-school programs or language schools to learn a new language. It’s a valuable skill that can broaden their horizons and improve cognitive abilities.

Coding and Computers

Send your children to coding camps or classes to learn computer skills. It’s an important skill set for the future and can be a lot of fun too!
These academic activities teach kids important skills and knowledge that will help them in school and beyond.

Life Skills and Personal Growth

Helping kids learn life skills and build character is key to their growth. Here are some suggestions:

Scouts

Get your kids involved in Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, or similar groups to learn valuable life skills and help the community. It’s a great way to make friends and discover new interests.

Cooking and Baking

Sign your children up for cooking classes to learn kitchen skills and healthy eating at places like The Little Kitchen. They’ll love creating tasty treats and learning about nutrition.

Gardening

Encourage your kids to learn about plants and nature in gardening clubs or programs. It’s a wonderful way to teach responsibility and appreciate the beauty of the natural world.

Money Skills

Help your children learn to manage money in bank programs or through Junior Achievement. It’s an important skill that will serve them well throughout their lives.

Leadership

Enroll your kids in programs like Toastmasters to build leadership and public speaking skills. It’s a great confidence booster and will help them in school and future careers.

Volunteering

Teach your children the value of kindness and helping others by encouraging them to volunteer at local charities. It’s a rewarding experience that will help them grow as individuals.
These life-skill activities help kids become well-rounded and caring individuals. Encourage your children to explore these opportunities and find the ones that resonate with their interests and values. By investing in their personal growth, you’re setting them up for a bright and fulfilling future!
after school program activities

Special Interest Activities

Colorado Springs also has many special activities for kids with specific interests such as:

Horseback Riding

If your kids love animals, they can take riding lessons or join horse clubs at local stables. It’s a great way to learn responsibility and bond with these majestic creatures.

Rock Climbing

Let your children learn to climb at indoor gyms like City ROCK. It’s a fun and challenging activity that builds strength and confidence.

Fencing

If your kids are interested in martial arts, they can learn fencing skills at clubs like the Pikes Peak Fencing Club. It’s a unique sport that teaches discipline and strategy.

Archery

Encourage your children to practice archery at places like the Archery School of the Rockies. It’s a great way to improve focus and hand-eye coordination.

Flying and Space

If your kids are fascinated by aviation, they can explore flying at the National Museum of World War II Aviation or Peterson Air and Space Museum. It’s a fun way to learn about history and science.

Pottery

Let your children express their creativity by making clay creations at pottery studios or art schools. It’s a fun and tactile activity that results in unique keepsakes.

Knitting and Sewing

Encourage your kids to learn to knit or sew at local yarn and fabric shops. It’s a practical skill that can also be a relaxing and rewarding hobby.
These special interest activities let kids explore unique hobbies and learn specific skills. Encourage your children to try out these exciting options and find the ones that spark their passion and curiosity. By nurturing their interests, you’re helping them develop a sense of identity and purpose.

Nature and Environmental Activities

Colorado Springs’ beautiful nature areas give kids many ways to explore the outdoors. Encourage your children to try these exciting activities:

Nature Camps

Send your kids to nature camps at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo or Bear Creek Nature Center. They’ll love learning about animals and plants in a hands-on environment.

Bird Watching

Take your children to look for birds with clubs like the Aiken Audubon Society. It’s a great way to teach them patience and appreciation for nature.

Fishing

Help your kids learn to fish with Colorado Parks and Wildlife programs or local fishing clubs. It’s a fun and relaxing activity that teaches responsibility and respect for the environment.

Rocks and Geology

Encourage your children to learn about rocks and minerals with the Colorado Springs Mineralogical Society. It’s a great way to explore the Earth’s history and beauty.

Astronomy and Stars

Let your kids learn about space at the Space Foundation Discovery Center or Pikes Peak Observatory. It’s an awe-inspiring activity that sparks curiosity and imagination.
Nature activities help kids appreciate the environment and enjoy the outdoors. Encourage your children to explore these wonderful opportunities and develop a lifelong love for nature.
after school program activities in colorado springs

Technology and Innovation Fun

Help your kids prepare for the future by introducing them to new technology and encouraging innovation. Encourage your children to try these exciting activities:

Robotics

Get them involved in school robotics teams that compete in FIRST Lego League or VEX Robotics challenges. They’ll love building and programming their own robots while learning valuable STEM skills.

3D Printing

Have them learn 3D design and printing at library makerspaces or tech centers. It’s a fun way to bring their ideas to life and develop spatial reasoning skills.

App and Game Creation

Send your kids to coding camps that teach how to make apps and video games. They’ll have a blast creating their own interactive projects while learning the basics of programming.

Drones

Help your children learn to fly drones safely with local drone clubs. It’s an exciting hobby that teaches responsibility and can even lead to future careers.

Cybersecurity

Encourage your kids to learn about internet safety and coding at school workshops or tech company events. It’s an important skill set that will help them navigate the digital world with confidence.
Technological activities give kids the skills they need to thrive in the digital world. By encouraging your children to explore these innovative pursuits, you’re setting them up for success in a rapidly changing future. These activities not only teach valuable technical skills but also foster creativity, problem-solving, and adaptability – essential qualities for the 21st century.

Community and Citizenship Activities

Helping kids get involved in the community teaches them to be engaged citizens. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Youth Councils

Let your kids share their ideas on local issues in youth councils and boards. It’s a great way for them to learn about civic engagement and make a difference in their community.

Model UN and Mock Trial

Encourage your children to learn about world politics and law in school Model UN and mock trial programs. These activities help develop critical thinking, public speaking, and teamwork skills.

Community Gardens

Get your kids involved in local garden projects to help them learn about growing food and building community. It’s a fun and rewarding way to teach responsibility and environmental stewardship.

Mentoring

Check out programs such as Big Brothers Big Sisters. It’s a wonderful opportunity for them to develop leadership skills and make a positive impact on someone else’s life.

Neighborhood Cleanup

Organize neighborhood cleanup events with your kids to show them how to care for their community. It’s a great way to teach them the value of volunteering and taking pride in their surroundings.
Community activities help kids become active, caring members of society. By encouraging your children to get involved in these initiatives, you’re helping them develop a strong sense of citizenship and empathy for others.

Conclusion

Overall, Colorado Springs has an amazing variety of after-school activities for kids of all ages. Doing these activities helps kids build important skills, meet new people, and find hobbies that shape their future. As parents, you must support and encourage your kid(s) to try new things. No matter what your child likes to do, you will surely find great after school activities in Colorado Springs.

If you want to take things further, you can always give your child a fun and educational after-school experience at our After School Program in Colorado Springs. Contact us today to reserve their spot!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the main benefits of participating in after school program activities for children's development?

After school program activities offer numerous benefits for children’s development. They provide opportunities for kids to enhance their academic performance, develop social skills, and form lasting friendships. These activities also allow children to explore their interests, discover new talents, and stay physically active, which contributes to their overall health and well-being.

Which sports and fitness activities are popular among kids in Colorado Springs?

Colorado Springs offers a wide range of sports and fitness activities that are popular among kids. Soccer is a favorite, with many local teams and leagues available for children to join. Basketball, swimming, and gymnastics are also well-liked. Additionally, kids can take up martial arts, tennis, and enjoy the beautiful outdoors through hiking and exploration clubs.

How can engaging in artistic and creative pursuits help children express themselves and develop new skills?

Participating in artistic and creative activities allows children to express their emotions, thoughts, and ideas in unique ways.

  • Through music lessons, kids can learn to play an instrument or sing, developing their musical skills and self-expression.
  • Art classes in drawing, painting, and sculpting enable kids to explore their visual creativity and fine motor skills.
  • Photography and videography lessons teach children to capture and express their world visually.

Engaging in these artistic pursuits helps children develop a wide range of skills while fostering their imagination and self-expression.

What STEM and academic activities are available for children looking to enhance their learning outside the classroom?

Children in Colorado Springs have access to a variety of STEM and academic activities that can supplement their classroom learning.

  • Science camps and workshops engage kids in hands-on experiments and scientific exploration.
  • Math clubs and competitions challenge children to improve their mathematical abilities and critical thinking skills.
  • Foreign language classes, offered by schools and language centers, allow kids to learn and appreciate new languages and cultures.

Why is it important for children to get involved in community activities?

Engaging in community activities is crucial for children’s personal growth and the development of their social responsibility. By participating in such programs, kids learn the importance of giving back to their community and develop empathy and compassion.

Filed Under: Activities, After School, Programs & Curriculum

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