Ultimate Guide to Kids Sports & Kids Classes in Charlottesville

words by CharlottesvilleFamily Editors
A Parent’s Comprehensive Guide to After-School Activities

Are you looking for ways to help your child thrive and succeed in today’s fast-paced world? After-school activities may be the key to unlocking their full potential. Here, we have compiled a comprehensive guide to all of the kids sports and kids classes in Charlottesville. From boosting self-esteem to developing crucial social skills and improving academic performance, these extracurricular programs offer a wealth of benefits for growing minds. Join us as we delve into the advantages of building confidence, enhancing social skills, improving academic performance, and teaching valuable life lessons through participation in enrichment activities.

Our community has a wealth of options for extracurricular fun and learning. Youth team sports include everything from beginner baseball, soccer, and basketball teams to travel leagues for volleyball and lacrosse. More individual sports kids can try include gymnastics classes, swimming lessons, martial arts classes, horseback riding lessons, skateboarding clinics, tennis lessons and golf clinics. For extra fun during the summer, read our Summer Camps Guide and come meet camp staff at the KidFest & Camp Expo.

For kids who love the arts, this after-school activities guide can help you find drama classes, theater performance opportunities, improv training, ballet lessons, comedy coaching, dance classes, music lessons, painting and art classes, and much more to unleash their inner creativity. Clubs for kids are a wonderful way to find community and you’ll find several here in our Ultimate Guide to Kids Sports & Kids Classes in Charlottesville. Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, and 4-H leadership programs are among the choices. Young scientists will appreciate the great STEM programs where you can find coding classes, science programs, engineering projects, math clubs, and more!

Use this guide as your starting point to research Charlottesville’s best after-school activities, classes and sports for children and youth. If you see a program we missed please email us. Things are always changing and we want CharlottesvilleFamily to be the best resource for parents that it can be!

All-Around Recreation Organization for Kids Sports & Classes

ACAC

Charlottesville Parks & Recreation

Kids sports like basketball, soccer, tennis, golf, swim, gymnastics, dance, skateboarding and more are offered, with options for all skill levels. Seasonal leagues, clinics, and camps ensure year-round opportunities. In addition, the city hosts kids classes such as jewelry making, sewing, art, cooking, STEM and therapeutic recreation. Charlottesville.org/parksandrec  434-970-3260

Albemarle County Parks & Recreation

The County Middle School Sports Program is held at all 5 Albemarle County Middle Schools (Homeschoolers are welcome as well). Includes volleyball, soccer, lacrosse, tennis flag football programs and more. Additionally, dance classes, basketball, pickleball, karate lessons, tai chi, yoga, paddleboard and fitness classes for all ages round out the offerings. There is adaptive recreation for ages 8 and up. albemarle.org/government/parks-recreation/    434-296-5844

Piedmont Family YMCA

The Piedmont Family YMCA is a hub for families in Central Virginia, offering a wide range of programs. With locations in Charlottesville and Albemarle County, parents can access child care, including preschool and after-school programs. Kids can participate in a variety of sports, from swimming and basketball to soccer and flag football, fostering teamwork and physical fitness. Leadership programs like Y Achievers inspire confidence and life skills, while summer camps provide adventure and fun. The YMCA is dedicated to helping families grow, thrive, and build lifelong memories together. Piedmontymca.org  434-202-0118

Special Olympics Virginia Area 3

Special Olympics Virginia’s Area 3 offers year-round sports training and competitions for individuals with disabilities. The program provides opportunities for athletes to develop fitness, demonstrate courage, and experience joy through sports such as basketball, bowling, golf, pickleball, soccer, swimming, tennis, track & field, and volleyball. Specialolympicsva.org  540-433-7475

UVA Intramural-Recreation Sports

Baby & Parent Classes in Charlottesville

In Charlottesville, a variety of baby and parent classes offer families opportunities to bond, learn, and build community. From music and movement programs to parenting workshops, these classes provide valuable tools for nurturing a child’s development while also giving parents a chance to connect with others. The value of these classes extends beyond the activities themselves, fostering emotional support, shared experiences, and a stronger sense of balance as parents navigate the challenges of raising young children. Find even more Mommy & Me Classes in our guide especially for parents of littles.

Blossom Play Space

Art at Blossom Play Space in charlottesville

Wean your child off the screen and give them their sense of Wonder back! Bring your curious kid to Blossom for brain-boosting After-school Enrichment that builds skills and confidence. Imagination, inquiry, and creativity will soar with any of our programs!  blossomplayspace.com

Botanical Garden of the Piedmont

Hike It Baby

Kindred

Jefferson-Madison Regional Libraries

One Fit Mother

Sprout Cville

Virginia Discovery Museum

Wildrock

Kids’s Art Classes in Charlottesville

Kids art classes in Charlottesville are a fantastic way to inspire your child’s creativity and self-expression. No Ultimate Guide to Kids Sports & Kids Classes in Charlottesville would be complete without an array of arts classes. Whether your child loves painting, pottery, or digital design, local studios like McGuffey Art Center offer programs tailored for various ages and skill levels. These classes help children develop fine motor skills, patience, and confidence as they create their own masterpieces. Plus, participating in a group setting fosters collaboration and gives your child a sense of pride in their unique talents.

The Art Bar

Blossom Play Space

Foster Art

The Glass Palette

Lazy Daisy Ceramics

Magpie Knits

McGuffey Art Center

Mountainside Arts

Pikasso Swig

Rose’s Creation Station

Scrappy Elephant

Community & Clubs for Kids

Joining a club is a wonderful way for kids to explore their passions while forming friendships. Charlottesville boasts a range of kids clubs, from nature and photography to robotics and chess, all designed to spark curiosity and build skills. Clubs provide a structured environment where kids can connect with peers who share their interests, develop teamwork skills, and practice leadership in fun and engaging ways.

Albemarle/Charlottesville 4-H

Boys & Girls Club of Central Virginia

Boy Scouts

The End Games

Girls on the Run

Girl Scouts

Kids Classes in Dance, Cheer, Yoga & Gymnastics

Dance classes are a joyful way for kids to stay active while learning coordination and rhythm. Charlottesville’s dance studios, like offer styles ranging from ballet and contemporary classes to jazz, tap and hip-hop classes for all ages. Dance lessons helps improve physical fitness, flexibility, and discipline, while also boosting self-esteem as children master new routines and perform for audiences.

AIM USA Youth Cheer

Albemarle Ballet Theatre

BalletSchool

Charlottesville Ballet

Charlottesville Ballet summer camp

Co-ed. 18 months+ The Charlottesville Ballet Academy (CBA) is a nonprofit center for dance education serving over 780 students of all skill levels and ages. CBA provides a welcoming, inclusive environment to explore ballet, jazz, tap, contemporary, hip-hop, and more. As the official training school of the Charlottesville Ballet, the professional instructors focus on strong technique while encouraging a love for dance. Classes at three locations: 29North, at IX, and in Scottsville. CBA offers pre-professional training, summer camps, and adult classes. Scholarship funding is available by application through the new Keith Lee Dance Fund.  CharlottesvilleBallet, 434-973-2555

Charlottesville Royalettes Baton Class

Classic Gymnastics

Crozet Arts

Gryphon Gymnastics

MFA Studios

The Phoenix Dance Studio

Sprout Yoga Cville

Wilson School of Dance

Kids Horseback Riding Lessons in Charlottesville

Charlottesville is home to excellent equestrian centers where children can take horseback riding lessons. These lessons teach responsibility, as kids learn to care for horses, and build confidence through mastering new skills. Riding also improves balance, posture, and emotional well-being, offering a calming yet challenging activity in a beautiful outdoor setting. Many stables also offer competitions where students can demonstrate skills from riding and jumping to dressage. There are even opportunities for kids to learn the sport of polo. Virginia horse country is well represented in our Ultimate Guide to Kids Sports & Kids Classes in Charlottesville.

Afton Stables

The Barracks Farm

Brook Hill Farm

Charlottesville Area Riding Therapy (CART)

Charlottesville Area Riding Therapy (CART) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing therapeutic recreational horseback riding to children and adults with special needs. Spring, summer, and fall, lessons are led by a Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship (PATH) certified instructor. cartcrozet.org  434-823-1178

Hidden Creek Farm

Keswick Sensory

Roseland Polo School

Virginia Polo Center

Charlottesville Language Classes for Kids

Foreign language lessons can open doors to global opportunities for your child. Charlottesville has programs like Speak! Language Center that make learning languages fun and interactive. Learning a second language improves cognitive abilities, enhances problem-solving skills, and fosters cultural appreciation—skills that will benefit your child throughout his or her life.

Alliance Francaise de Charlottesville

Charlottesville Spanish

The Han Studio

Speak! Language Center

Martial Arts Classes in Charlottesville

Kids martial arts classes in Charlottesville focus on more than just physical fitness and are an important part of Kids Sports & Kids Classes in Charlottesville. They also teach discipline, respect, and self-control. Whether your child is interested in karate, judo, or taekwondo, local studios provide supportive environments for all skill levels. Martial arts boosts confidence, improves focus, and instills valuable life skills in an engaging way.

7 Tigers Taekwondo & Hapkido

AIM USA Self Defense

Black Belt Success Academy

Charlottesville Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Academy

Charlottesville Shotokan Karate Club

Charlottesville T’ai Chi Center

Gracie Charlottesville

International Black Belt Center

Laughing Dragon Kung Fu

Mountain Kim Martial Arts

Shotokan Karate Club

Tiger USA World Class Tae Kwon Do

Charlottesville Music Lessons for Kids

Music lessons are an enriching experience for kids, and Charlottesville offers a wealth of options, from piano and guitar to voice and violin. Learning music enhances memory, boosts creativity, and teaches perseverance. As children practice and perform, they gain confidence and develop a lifelong appreciation for the arts.

Blue Ridge Irish Music School

Blue Ridge Music Together

Blue Ridge Music Together offers music and movement classes for families in Charlottesville and surrounding areas. Based on the internationally recognized Music Together® program, classes are designed for children from birth to age 8, along with their caregivers. From Family and Babies Classes to Rhythm Kids for older children, the program nurtures creativity, musicality, and family connections in a fun, engaging environment. Led by trained educators, classes foster joy and self-expression while building developmental skills. Enroll year-round and join the musical community that brings families together through the power of song, dance, and play! blueridgemusictogether.com

Charlottesville Music Teachers Association (CMTA)

CMTA supports professional music educators with workshops and programs while encouraging music study through student performance events. Their “Find A Teacher” directory connects the community with instructors, though CMTA does not endorse individuals. Affiliated with MTNA and VMTA, CMTA fosters musical growth. cvillemta.com

Charlottesville Children’s Choir

Crozet Arts

FootNotes Studio

The Front Porch

The Ivy Piano Studio

Music & Arts Center

Musicology

Music Emporium

Music Resource Center

My Music Starts Here

Stacy’s Music

Youth Orchestra

Charlottesville Kids’ Sports Teams & Leagues

From soccer to basketball, kids sports are a fantastic way for youngsters to stay active and make friends. Charlottesville’s sports leagues and clubs foster teamwork, communication, and a strong sense of community. Kids learn the value of perseverance, goal-setting, and working together to achieve success, both on and off the field. Please be sure to reference recreation organizations at the top of this page – The City, County, YMCA, Special Olympics, etc. all offer lots of wonderful kids class and kids sports programs from basketball and flag football to track, swim and volleyball!

CHARLOTTESVILLE KIDS’ BASEBALL/SOFTBALL LEAGUES

Babe Ruth League

Central Little League

Jefferson Area Girls Softball

McIntire Little League

Monticello Little League

Northside Baseball League

Peachtree Baseball

Peachtree Softball

KIDS BASKETBALL IN CHARLOTTESVILLE

The Players Zone

Pro Skills Basketball

Virginia Basketball Academy

YOUTH FOOTBALL/LACROSSE/FIELD HOCKEY

Albemarle Girls Lacrosse League

Focus Field Hockey

Jefferson District Youth Football League

Seminole Lacrosse

Western Albemarle Lacrosse Club

CHARLOTTESVILLE GOLF/TENNIS/FENCING

Blue Ridge Fencing

First Tee – Virginia Blue Ridge

First Tee golf putting challenge for children in Charlottesville, va

First Tee – Virginia Blue Ridge is a nonprofit organization that empowers young people through the game of golf. With programs designed for kids ages 5-18, they focus on building life skills, character development, and healthy habits both on and off the course. Their engaging, inclusive curriculum of golf lessons fosters confidence, resilience, and a love for the sport. Located in the heart of the Blue Ridge region, they welcome families across Charlottesville and beyond.
firstteevirginiablueridge.org  434-987-0165

Highlands Golf

Old Trail Golf Club

Quickstart Tennis

LEARN HOCKEY/SKATING/RACING FOR CHILDREN

Charlottesville Racing Club

Charlottesville Skate Park

OUTDOOR & SNOW SPORTS FOR CHARLOTTESVILLE YOUTH

Charlottesville Bicycle Club

Wintergreen Youth Ski Patrol

CHARLOTTESVILLE SOCCER TEAMS AND LEAGUES

Blue Ridge Soccer Academy

Charlottesville Alliance Sports Club

Crozet Sports

Cville United Soccer

SOCA

Co-ed. Ages 3+

The Soccer Organization of the Charlottesville Area (SOCA) offers a comprehensive range of soccer programs for children and teens in the Charlottesville area. Catering to players from as young as 3 years old up to 19 years old, SOCA provides opportunities for all skill levels. Their offerings include recreational leagues and competitive travel teams as well as camps and clinics, all led by experienced coaches who emphasize teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship. Year-round soccer team options ensure that families can find the right fit for their child’s interests and schedule in the spring, summer, fall and winter. Office located at 1685 Polo Grounds Road, Charlottesville. SOCA, 434-975-5025, [email protected]

Soccer Shots

West City Soccer

VOLLEYBALL TEAMS IN CHARLOTTESVILLE

Albemarle County Volleyball Club

Charlottesville Area Volleyball Club

YOUTH WRESTLING & ROCK CLIMBING

Cavalier Wrestling Club

Rocky Top Climbing

Charlottesville Stem Programs

STEM activities are booming in Charlottesville, with classes and programs that ignite curiosity and innovation. Whether your child loves coding, building robots, or conducting experiments, these opportunities build problem-solving skills and critical thinking while preparing kids for a tech-driven future. Our Ultimate Guide to Kids Sports & Kids Classes in Charlottesville wouldn’t be complete without these great organizations and their kids classes.

Blue Ridge Boost

robotic vehicles on the floor, blue ridge boost, charlottesville

Blue Ridge Boost, a locally owned education company in Charlottesville, Virginia, specializes in computer science, robotics, math, and chess. We offer classes, camps, and tutoring to enrich students of all levels. Our programs, like Parents Night Out, Girl Powered Fridays, and Chess Club, promote academic growth and social interaction. Committed to nurturing young minds, we help students develop critical thinking skills and a passion for learning. Whether your child is a budding programmer, aspiring mathematician, or curious learner, we provide the tools and guidance for them to thrive. Blue Ridge Boost, 434-260-0636

Computers4Kids

STEAM Discovery Academy

STEAM Discovery Academy, founded in Charlottesville, in 2017, offers year-round programs in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) for students from Kindergarten through 8th grade. Their offerings include after-school clubs, weekend workshops, kids STEAM classes and summer camps designed to spark curiosity and foster critical thinking skills. Programs are hosted at multiple locations, including Charlottesville Catholic School and their year-round facility at 206 Albemarle Square. The academy emphasizes hands-on learning, encouraging students to explore scientific concepts through interactive experiments and creative projects. Steamda.com/charlottesville  434-987-3918

Charlottesville Swim Lessons, Teams & Leagues

Swimming lessons are a life skill that doubles as a great workout. Charlottesville’s pools and swim programs, like UVA Intramural-Recreation Sports, provide lessons for all levels, from water safety basics to competitive swimming. Swimming promotes strength, endurance, and confidence in the water, making it both fun and essential.

ACAC

Child’s Play Infant Aquatics

Central Virginia Swim Services

Charlottesville Swans

Fairview Swim Club

Swim S’cool

Virginia Gators

Theater Programs for Kids in Charlottesville

While we’ve already covered visual art classes and dance, we’d be remiss to nit highlight the wonderful theater programs in our Ultimate Guide to Kids Sports & Kids Classes in Charlottesville. Theatre classes in Charlottesville offer kids a chance to shine while building self-confidence and public speaking skills. Local programs provide everything from acting workshops to full-scale productions. Children learn to collaborate, express themselves, and embrace creativity, all while making lasting memories with their peers.

Big Blue Door

Black Box Theatre

DMR Adventures

DMR Adventures, based in Charlottesville, is a performing arts academy offering professional training in acting, dance, and voice. Their programs include year-round classes, camps, and performance opportunities for various age groups and skill levels. Notable initiatives are the Youth Leadership Program, which provides mentorship in creative and technical roles, and the Broadway Adventure series, culminating in full-scale productions. DMR Adventures is committed to accessibility, offering sliding-scale pricing and scholarships to ensure inclusivity. They also collaborate with local schools and organizations to foster community engagement through the arts. For more details on classes, performances, or involvement opportunities, visit their website or contact them directly. DMRAdventures.com  434-227-4710

Jefferson Youth Theater

Light House Studio

students at light house studio setting up video camera, Charlottesville

Co-ed. Elementary, Middle & High School

Learn the art of filmmaking! Light House Studios teaches hands-on filmmaking workshops for all ages and experience levels. With the guidance of experienced teaching artists, students work in small groups to create their own short films or learn a special topic. As they learn about screenwriting, cinematography, and video editing, students build skills like collaboration, creativity, planning, and communication. Light House has served the Charlottesville community for over 20 years and is a place where people learn to tell their own stories, work together, and build valuable creative and technical skills. Light House Studio, 434-293-6992.

Live Arts

Charlottesville Tutoring & Skill Building

Tutoring services in Charlottesville ensure your child gets the support they need to thrive academically. Whether they need help in math, reading, or test prep, local tutors and centers offer personalized instruction. Tutoring builds confidence, strengthens understanding, and fosters a love of learning that will last a lifetime. Other organizations on this list offer kids specialty classes like social skills and manners, classes in nature study, woodworking lessons and more.

Albemarle Therapy Center

Aloha Mind/Math/Reading/Writing

Blue Ridge Boost

Charlottesville Civility School

Clayborne Test Prep & Tutoring

Dot to Dot Speech

Emerson House Learning Center

Georgetown Learning

Heartmoor Farm Education Centre

Kaplan Education Center

LearningRx

Living Earth School

MACAA

Mathnasium of Charlottesville

MathTree

Rubin Academics

UVA Sheila C. Johnson Center

Wahoo Tutors

Winslow Savage, OTR

Woodworking with Children

Writer House

Why Kids Classes & Kids Sports are Essential for Your Child’s Growth and Development

Building Confidence Through Classes & Sports

Another valuable aspect of ids classes and kids sports in Charlottesville is the opportunity they provide for building confidence in children. Participating in extracurriculars allows kids to discover and develop their strengths, talents, and interests in a supportive environment. As they master new skills and achieve milestones, their self-assurance grows, helping them to believe in their abilities and tackle challenges with resilience. Through these experiences, children learn to trust in themselves, take risks, and embrace new opportunities, laying a strong foundation for future success.

Improving Social Skills and Building Friendships

Participating in after-school activities also plays a key role in improving social skills and building friendships for children. These extracurricular programs offer opportunities for kids to interact with their peers, learn how to collaborate on projects, and develop important communication skills. Through working together towards a common goal, children learn how to navigate social interactions, resolve conflicts, and cultivate empathy and compassion for others. These interactions help them form strong bonds with their peers, fostering a sense of belonging and community.

These social experiences also contribute to the development of important life skills, such as teamwork, leadership, and adaptability, all of which are crucial for success in both academic and professional settings. By engaging in after-school activities, children learn how to work effectively with others, listen to different perspectives, and make decisions as a group, all of which are valuable skills that can enhance their academic performance and critical thinking skills.

Enhancing Academic Performance and Critical Thinking

Participating in after-school activities not only improves social skills but also enhances academic performance and critical thinking. Engaging in extracurricular programs helps children develop key skills such as teamwork, leadership, and adaptability, which are essential for success in various aspects of life. These experiences lay a strong foundation for teaching valuable life lessons and experiences, shaping children into well-rounded individuals.

Teaching Valuable Life Lessons and Experiences

Furthermore, after-school activities for kids provide opportunities for children to learn valuable life lessons and gain experiences that will benefit them in the long run. Through participating in sports, clubs, or volunteering, children can develop resilience, time management, and problem-solving skills. These activities allow children to explore their interests, challenge themselves, and discover new passions. By facing obstacles and overcoming challenges in a safe and supportive environment, children are better equipped to handle the ups and downs of life as they grow older. Ultimately, after-school activities serve as a platform for children to learn, grow, and navigate the world around them with confidence and resilience.

Kids extracurricular classes & sports are not just a way to pass the time—they are essential for your child’s growth and development. From building confidence and improving social skills to enhancing academic performance and teaching valuable life lessons, enrichment programs offer a plethora of benefits that can shape your child’s future. By encouraging your child to participate in extracurricular activities like sports and arts programs, you are setting them up for success in all aspects of his or her life. Remember, the skills they learn today will serve them well tomorrow. So, let them explore, create, and grow—the possibilities are endless.

The CharlottesvilleFamily Ultimate After-School Activities Guide is a extensive list of after-school programs, kids classes & Kids sports, in Charlottesville & Beyond. Programs with an expanded description are advertising partners. We have done our best to collect all resources but make no claim or guarantee about the information and organizations presented here. You should use the information found on our website as a jumping off point for your own research as you search to find the best local businesses and organizations to serve your family’s needs.

Our CharlottesvilleFamily Editors are locals who care deeply about family and community. We are almost all parents who serve alongside our readers in the PTO and band boosters, coaching sports teams, helping with the school fun fair and more. Our insider perspective, combined with great research and expert input from our wonderful CharlottesvilleFamily Advisory Panel helps us to provide you with trustworthy advice as you raise the next generation of brilliant and compassionate kids.

 

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