School will be back in session in the blink of an eye and kids will go from running wild and free to sitting behind a desk for six hours a day. It’s hard to make sure they still get all the exercise (and that energy outlet!). Here are just some of the fantastic after school sports programs available in the city for your wiggly, energetic kid.
True North Sports Camps
If you have your very own Blue Jay wannabe, the True North Sports Camp’s Baseball Clinics may be the after-school program you’re looking for. All skill levels are welcome in these clinics that focus on fun, fair play and teamwork. True North offers their clinics throughout the school year (programs head inside by October).
Details: Various North Toronto schools; ages 4–13
Toronto Circus Centre
If your kids threaten to run away and join the circus, just direct them to Toronto Circus Centre. Former competitive gymnast and current stunt performer Jen Georgopoulos’s Toronto Circus Centre offers such classes as Circus Club, Teen Circus, and Kinder Cirque for the after-school set.
Details: Leaside United Church, 822 Millwood Rd., Toronto; ages 4 and up
Cirqueability
Kids can build their big-top skills at Cirqueability. This gym for kids and grown-ups in the Junction Triangle strives to “fill your lives with fun, confidence and fitness” by providing small 6:1 classes like Junior Aerial, Kids Trampoline, and Teen Silks.
Details: 213 Sterling Rd., Toronto; ages 4 and up
Basecamp Climbing
Are your kids always climbing on the furniture? Send them to Basecamp Climbing’s after-school program to get it out of their system. Focussing on responsibility, problem-solving and teamwork, climbing can be a great mental and physical challenge. Climbing shoes and harness are included.
Details: 677 Bloor St. W., Toronto; ages 6 and up
TDot Tumblers
If your child wants to take their somersault to the next level, TDot Tumblers will boost their gymnastics skills as they practice on Olympic apparatus. Trampoline, tumbling, and recreational gymnastics are all available to help your child improve their coordination, balance, and confidence.
Details: Galleria Mall, 1245 Dupont St., Toronto; ages 3 and up
High Park Martial Arts
Getting exercise, learning self-discipline and relieving stress—what parent doesn’t want that for their child? A great way to do all three is by participating in martial arts. At High Park Martial Arts, kids can take karate or kobudo (Okinawan weapon art) classes.
Details: 3094 Dundas St. W., Toronto; ages 4 and up
Innercity MMA
Sign up for Brazilian jiu-jitsu and Gracie-style jiu-jitsu, judo, or Shotokan karate. oasting that they will be “masters” in multiple Martial Arts.
Details: 403 Dundas St. W., Toronto; ages 4 and up
Jack of Sports
Kids focus on a different sport every week in the 10- to 12-week sessions at Jack of Sports. Basketball, soccer, and floor hockey all play a large part in the program, with creative drills and small games designed to get everyone involved.
Details: Locations at various host schools and sports facilities; ages 3 and up
TAC Sports
Are your kids such sports lovers they can’t pick just one? Sign up for weekly lessons in tennis, soccer, dance, basketball, and more.
Details: Locations at various schools and sports facilities; ages 3 and up
Sportball
It’s not just for little kids anymore. In addition to early-years multi-sport programs, Sportball now offer programs for older children in soccer, baseball, T-ball, ball hockey, and other sports.
Details: Locations at various sports facilities; ages 3 and up
Toronto Parks and Recreation
Browse the Fun Guide to find one of the many after-school sports programs near you, at an excellent price. Programs are available for soccer, tennis, ball hockey, ice skating, swimming, gymnastics, and more. But be sure to note sign-up dates for your area, and get ready to call the minute sign-up begins to secure one of the highly coveted spots.
Details: Various community centres and sports facilities; ages 3 and up
