Clubs for Kids

Clubs that address and alleviate pressing social, public health, and environmental problems are "in" today. Many popular types of clubs reflect a growing social progressivism in the culture and a wide variety of interests. Though that may sound a bit serious, the basic idea that makes clubs so great is the same as it ever was; it's a low-key way to have fun, learn a skill, or just hang out with like-minded kids. From sports to music to politics and farming, clubs are available to kids of all ages and interests.

An internet search will yield more than a ton of types of clubs in and around your local area. To help you get started, what follows is a list of the most popular types of clubs for kids.

Volunteerism

• Clubs that allow kids to volunteer for a good cause are everywhere. The most ubiquitous in public schools are the various clubs sponsored by the Kiwanis Kids, the Builders Club and the Key Club. Kids can also volunteer through the Leo Club, the high school wing of Lions Clubs International. Another option is Interact, the high school wing of the Rotary Club. Don't forget to check with your child's school--they're sure to have volunteer programs that serve the local community.

Farms and farm-related activities

• At almost a hundred years old with over 6 million members nationwide, 4-H club isn't just about livestock. It offers all kinds of crafts and pastimes, animal science, citizenship, as well as science and technology interest groups. There are also a myriad of 4-H summer camps nationally.

Sports, adventure, outdoor and cycling clubs

• Whether it's cycling clubs, hiking and outdoors clubs, wilderness adventure clubs or clubs that encourage kids to get outside and be physically active, more and more of these are popping up everywhere. Sports clubs are just as popular and exist for a wide range of interest, participation, and skills levels. They include gymnastics. soccer, football, golf, swimming, wrestling, ballooning, flying, karate--you name it.  Find the sports or outdoors club at your child's school, local community center, and sports venues.

Science Olympiad clubs

• These clubs train teams to compete in regional, state and national tournaments of the Science Olympiad, a contest that tests elementary, middle school and high school students on their science and engineering knowledge. Ask your child's science teacher about local and national school science fairs and competitions.

Young Peacemakers clubs

• These international clubs are for kids of all ages who are eager to promote peace and non-violence. They foster an appreciation of world peace and may include activities ranging from fund raisers to public demonstrations and rallies through a variety of media.

Art clubs

• Contemporary art clubs usually involve visits to museums and substantive interactions with adult artists, but they are not only about art appreciation. Art clubs can also include a wide range of hands-on art classes offered through schools and by private groups. Check your school, local community centers, art museums, retail art supply stores, and framing shops.

Multicultural and diversity clubs

• Online searches will show you an enormous variety of clubs that promote racial unity and harmony and are open to all students. If you or your child is particularly interested in cultural heritage and social activism, these clubs can be a great place to meet people and to learn how to create a better world. Clubs are geared to young children, older kids, and adults and offer a wide variety of themes, support groups, and levels of activism and participation. You'll find everything from groups about racial harmony, religious affiliation, or gender identity, to earth awareness, local and global friendship, and more.

Environmental awareness and earth-keepers clubs

• The Sierra Club and the National Audubon Society have been the driving force behind a multitude of environmental awareness clubs over the last century-and they are as popular as ever. These clubs help students to connect with the natural environment and understand the impact nature has on humanity. Start your own nature club with kids, or find out about joining a local chapter of The Sierra Club or The National Audubon Society.

Boys and Girls Clubs

• Among the most popular of these are the Boys and Girls Club of America, Boy Scouts, and Girl Scouts organizations. These clubs are designed for boys and girls of all ages to learn about civic commitment and to have fun doing a wide range of activities both indoors and out. These clubs have long and distinguished histories in the promotion of the personal development and achievement for young people. Most towns and cities have local chapters.

S.A.D.D. clubs (Students Against Destructive Decisions)

• SADD was initially founded 25 years ago, in Wayland, Massachusetts, as Students Against Drunk Driving. It is now the predominant peer education group in the nation. These clubs provide students with the tools and support they need to avoid all sorts of destructive behavior, including drinking and drug abuse. They're not about tolerating experimentation--they are about a "no use" policy for all kids and teenagers when it comes to dangerous substances. SADD encourages kids to make positive choices and changes in their lives.

Robotics and engineering clubs

• Clubs dedicated to robot building are growing increasingly popular. National tournaments are held in which robots, designed and built by students, try to push each other out of a ring like sumo wrestlers do. Many schools offer activities like this through their own science clubs. You can also check with your local science museum to see what is available for kids in your area. If you live in an area with a great engineering college or university, they're bound to have club offerings on this subject.

The old standbys

• Debate (or mock trials), chess, Latin, language clubs, math clubs, drama, and theatre clubs remain popular. Debating skills will never be obsolete; chess will never be any less challenging; and Latin will always be the root of many languages. Given the popularity of improvisational and sketch comedy these days, drama and theatre clubs are often oriented more to short-form performance than plays or musicals. Nonetheless, your school, local library, and performing arts venues can help steer you in the right direction. You can even find private instruction for kids if they become really proficient in a particular subject and wish to compete on a national level.

Steve Penhollow is a writer and editor specializing in trends, arts, and entertainment for families.