Active kids is happy kids! In addition to lots of playgrounds, wonderful places such as the skate board park on the South Bank, several London Royal Parks to hang out in with free football pitches and trees to be climbed, there’s organised activities your child can join. We’ve taken a quick look on what’s on your doorstep of offers for active kids in London;
Sailing
From Age: 8
Costs: Weekend course from £160. A week holiday course “Learn to Sail” from £260.
What sports gear and equipment is needed: Sailing clothes and shoes are helpful but not compulsory, to keep you dry and comfortable.
More info here queenmarysailsports.co.uk and newtosailing.com
Tennis
From Age: 3 and upwards
Costs: Depends on the club, but Hackney Tennis has free membership for under 8 and £5 for under 18 for annual membership and £4 court hire. Summerterm course from £50.
What sports gear and equipment is needed: Good training shoes, shorts and tee. Racket can be borrowed or bought.
More info here willtowin.co.uk/
Swimming
From Age: Parent & Child (baby and toddler) or children from age 4.
Costs: Better Fitness Junior membership £15.30 per month via Better.com, swimming course in addition. In addition there’s a vast offer from private swimming schools.
What sports gear and equipment is needed: Swimming costume or shorts, goggles and swimming cap.
More info here Time Out London Best Swimming Pools and Swimming London and 7 Strategies to Help Kids Learn to Swim Safely at parenthood.com
Football
From Age: Prep from 3-6.
Costs: Free in nearby park, or group training from under £10 per session. Or go pro! Like Chelsea’s Soccer Schools are a fantastic introduction to the game, coaching for boys and girls of all abilities aged between 4 and 13 years old, price from £36 more chelseafc.com.
What sports gear and equipment is needed: Football shoes and a football (the latter if playing in nearby park).
More info here rafabenitez.com
Horse Riding
From Age: 4-6 depending on your child and the equestrian centres insurance.
Costs: Group lesson from approx. £25 per hour.
What sports gear and equipment is needed: Equestrian centres usually provide helmet, vest and boots. Wear comfortable track bottoms and long sleeved tee.
More info here: horseandhound.co.uk
Rock Climbing
From Age: From 5 years
Costs: Family tasting Session £20 pp or 2 hours climbing £30pp at n4 Castle Climbing Club
What sports gear and equipment is needed: Tracksuit. Helmet and shoes etc can be hired for a fee.
More info here KidsClimbing.co.uk
{© Little Scandinavian. Little A enjoying herself in the climbing wall.}
Other relevant and helpful sites for active kids and information regarding children’s sports in and around London
– openplay.co.uk
– visitlondon.co.uk