Beyond Summer Camp: 7 Ways to Keep Kids Active and Confident During the School Year

Summer camp may be over, but the movement, friendships, and confidence can continue all year long. Madison offers many ways for children ages 5 to 12 to stay active, try something new, and keep growing.

1. Keep Swimming

Swimming builds strength, coordination, confidence, and important water safety skills. Kittelson Swim School gives local children an opportunity to continue developing their swimming skills throughout the school year.

2. Try Martial Arts

Martial arts helps children develop focus, discipline, balance, and self confidence. Joseph Bein and the team at Empower Martial Arts in Fitchburg offer programs for different ages, including Ninjas for ages 6 and 7 and Core Karate for children ages 8 and older.

3. Explore Madison Parks

Choose a new park, playground, or walking trail to explore each month. Climbing, running, biking, and outdoor play give children exercise while encouraging creativity and independence. Families can use the Madison Parks Finder to discover a new favorite.

4. Find Indoor Adventures

Wisconsin weather does not have to stop the fun. Open gyms, climbing spaces, indoor playgrounds, and family activity centers provide plenty of room to move. The Macaroni KID Madison Indoor Play Guide is a helpful place to find ideas.

5. Join a Team or Class

Basketball, gymnastics, dance, soccer, tennis, yoga, and other group activities teach children how to practice, cooperate, and celebrate progress. Madison School and Community Recreation offers sports, aquatics, outdoor activities, arts, and enrichment programs for children throughout the year.

6. Plan Family Movement Time

Take a walk, ride bikes, play basketball, visit a museum, or create a family obstacle course. Even thirty minutes of movement can become a healthy family tradition. Families can also explore the current programs and events at the Madison Children’s Museum.

7. Let Children Choose

Confidence grows when children have a voice. Let your child choose an activity that feels exciting, then encourage effort, courage, and progress instead of perfection. For even more inspiration, explore the Madison Mom Activity and Enrichment Guide and the Macaroni KID Madison Family Events Calendar.

At Swim&Gym Summer Camp, we believe active children become confident children. By keeping movement, friendship, and healthy challenges in their lives throughout the school year, families can help that summer camp spirit shine all year long.