Are you having a hard time finding somewhere entertaining and affordable for your kiddos to be when school lets out? I know after-school care can be extremely expensive across Houston, but don’t get too stressed out just yet! There’s plenty of free and low-cost fun options. From storytime at Houston Public Library to free tennis lessons, I’ll show you where your kids can have a good time on a budget.
📚 Houston Public Library
What could be a better place for your kids to read and learn something new than their local library? Whether you want to play board games, enjoy storytime, play with Legos, or work on arts and crafts, there’s tons of kid-friendly free fun. Check out their events calendar and find your closest library location.
🏊 Houston Parks and Recreation Department Activities
Did you know the city offers free recreational sports and other after-school activities for kids? Whether your child wants to swim, play soccer, or participate in flag football, they can try something new this fall. The city also has after-school enrichment programs where kids can work on crafts, explore nature, and do fitness activities.
🧪 Girlstart
If you have a daughter in 4th or 5th grade who’s interested in STEM, enroll them in this weekly after-school program. The girls will participate in exciting scientific investigations and other activities that will sharpen their science, technology, engineering, and math skills.
🎾The City’s Free Tennis Program
Want your child to be the next Coco Gauff or Naomi Osaka? The City of Houston is partnering with the Houston Tennis Association to offer free year-round beginner and intermediate tennis lessons at tennis centers and neighborhood courts across the city. Another plus? This program is open to kids up to 18 years old, so your whole family can up their tennis game!
🥳 Participate in Out 2 Learn
Back in 2016, Houston Endowment initiated a study that found several Houston neighborhoods did not offer quality out-of-school activities for kids. So, they created Out 2 Learn alongside other organizations and city departments. This program now connects kids with fun opportunities all over Houston, from performing arts and Girl Scouts to tutoring and mentorship, there is something for everyone in your family. Use this locator to find activities in your area.
