Fun, Unique After School Programs in Ottawa

Now that it’s September and the kids are back at school, our thoughts turn to extra-curriculars and after-school programs and activities. We want to keep the kids occupied and active, without the stress of too much scheduling. If you’re looking for something other than soccer or swimming lessons, it may be time to try an exciting new activity that will introduce your kids to new friends, new adventures and distract them from the math homework they’ve been putting off.

We’ve rounded up a list of fresh, fun extra-curricular activities in Ottawa that we think the kids will love.

Tennis at the Ottawa Athletic Club (Ottawa East)

Don’t let this outdoor sport go away just because the weather is turning cooler. Sign your kids up for tennis lessons at the Ottawa Athletic Club and take advantage of their indoor facilities. With a variety of courses for all ages and all skill levels, the lessons will serve up a lot of fun. ottawaathleticclub.com

Pottery at Shenkman Arts Centre (Ottawa East)

We love the thought of our kids getting hands-on and creative at a pottery class. This afterschool class for ages 7 to 13 at Shenkman through the Gloucester Pottery School is perfect for siblings to take together, too. Students will make their own creations—and the sky’s the limit when it comes to designing their own creations. Whatever they can dream up. shenkmanarts.ca

Vocal and instrument lessons at Sing House Studios (Ottawa East)

In Orleans, Sing House Studios is inviting singers and instrument players to hone their skills and share their talents with the world—or at least with family. Your child can take voice, piano or guitar lessons in their studio, or via Skype. One-on-one and group lessons are available throughout the year, Sing House Studios offers workshops and special events to participate in. singhousestudios.ca

Activities with Ausome Ottawa (Ottawa West)

Ausome Ottawa is dedicated to helping children on the autism spectrum to play sports in a welcoming environment. There is a variety of active programs that they offer for families and we think that many kids will love the active sessions being offered this fall like soccer, obstacle courses and fitness. ausomeottawa.com

Water polo with Titans Water Polo Program (Various Locations)

Take your child’s love of swimming to the next level with water polo. The program starts for kids as young as five years old and will help children of all ages become more comfortable in the water, learn new skills and experience the excitement of the game. The Titans Water Polo program offers classes and games across the city over the course of the week. titanswaterpolo.ca

Musical Theatre at Bluesfest School of Music and Art (Ottawa West)

If your child is ready to learn an instrument, the BluesFest School of Music and Art (located at the Festival House on Churchill) offers private and group lessons to focus on their skill development and love of music. dovercourt.org

Highland Dancing at Loch Murray Dancers (Ottawa East)

Do the fling at a highland dancing class! This specialty Scottish dance instruction for boys and girls is a fast-paced, exciting way to enjoy the movement of dance. Swap the tutu for a kilt, get up on those toes and try a class with the Loch Murray Dancers. lochmurray.ca

Engineering and Robotics Clubs

At the University of Ottawa, several engineering and robotics clubs to encourage their love for engineering, robotics and coding. Programs for mini-makers and programmers are for grades 3 to 6 and take place on the University of Ottawa campus, and at satellite locations across the city. engineering.uottawa.ca