After-school activities in Cape Town
Extra-curricular activities are often abundantly provided by schools, most of which have teams for all the popular sports (soccer, rugby, cricket, surfing, golf) as well as societies for after-school debating, science, mathematics, art and other pursuits.
Of course, if your child’s school doesn’t run the gamut in terms of extra-mural societies, or you’re looking to give your kids a head start at a younger age, there are numerous independent clubs they can join (these can also be a great way to get them off your hands for a guilt-free afternoon). Listed below are a few well-supervised extra-mural centers below:
Catrobatkidz (2-9 years)
This company runs motor-skill development programs for children, teaching them the movement skills that lay the foundation for dance, gymnastics, and any other sport. Participating children have their abilities assessed quarterly – parents receive specific age related skill assessment reports.
Visit http://www.catrobatkidz.com or call 083 417 7902 (Cape Town branch).
Kindermusik with Nats
This is a music program that aims to stimulate a child’s love and understanding of music. Kindermusik involves children in listening, singing, movement, chanting and playing simple instruments. The focus is on process, not performance, but the program has a great deal of success when it comes to imbuing children with a lifelong interest in the performing arts.
There are several branches of Kindermusik in Cape Town. Call Natalie Van Vuuren on 076 814 7981.
Clamber Club
This is a movement program for even younger children (4 months and up) created by an occupational therapist. The classes combine music, mini-gym equipment and ‘jump and jog’ sensory motor techniques to stimulate children’s mental, perceptual and physical development.
Visit http://www.clamberclub.com or call 011 325 2031.
The Cape Town branch is run by Lauren Katzen. You can contact her on 021 439 9274 or e-mail jjcitybowl@clamberclub.com.
Little Cooks Club
These classes are aimed at creating a passion for good food and cooking in children. Classes are open to children between 18 months and 6 years of age, and the club also hosts classes for parents and children to cook together.
Visit http://www.littlecooksclub.co.za. You can contact Nicky Pyle (who runs the Cape Town branch) by calling 082 877 3361 or sending an e-mail to nickyp@littlecooksclub.co.za.
Kumon
Kumon provides extra-curricular classes in Maths and English for students of all ages. Its programs aim to boost your child’s confidence and help them develop good study habits while providing trusted academic support. There are numerous branches of Kumon throughout Cape Town.
To find your nearest branch, call their toll-free line on 0800 002 775 or visit http://www.kumon.co.za.
Above Average Tutors
This excellent agency offers home tuition in all school subjects, from grade 1 through matric. All tutors have their own transport.
Visit http://www.aboveaverage.za.net or call 082 788 5732
If your children are a little older and looking for a bit of independent play, you might want to take them and their friends to one of these places:
The Grand West Ice Rink
Situated about twenty minutes out of Cape Town, this massive casino has an equally impressive children’s arcade, along with an Olympic-sized ice rink. It’s practically overrun with kids in the evenings, when the sound system blares top 40 hits and laser lights turn the place into an icy disco. Your kids can hire skates and enjoy the rink for ninety minutes for just R25, while you enjoy some time at the slots or sip cocktails at one of the numerous bars around this large entertainment-focused mall.
Call 021 535 2260.
Boogaloos Skate Park
Only for the kid whose motor skills are decidedly well developed, Boogaloos is a great kids skate park located in Canal Walk Mall, Century City. Be warned: if you’re a paranoid parent, you probably won’t have much fun (but the kids will).
Address: Shop 535, Canal Walk, Century City, Cape Town
