Most popular activities

	In 2001 38% of kids kindergarten through eighth grade participated in after school activities.
	27% did sports
	19% did religious activities
	17% did arts. (ex. Dance)
	8% in scouts
	6% in community services
	6% in academic activities
	Clubs 4%

The first sports were simple. But modern sports have complicated rules, organized teams, referees, and paid athletes. Most colleges have sports teams also. Popular sports for kids are soccer, football, basketball, and baseball. There are lots of sports and professional teams in the world.

Playing soccer at least three hours a week helps boys ages 10-13 increase anaerobic capacity and total lean body mass and mineral density. This is critical time to build body mass. Kicking the ball can help kid’s bones to become stronger. Sprinting, jumping, and changing direction mixed together can help with tricks used in football and rugby. A parent finding a sport for their child is a very important thing.

Cub Scouts is a good after school activity offered by the Boy Scouts of America for first through fifth grade boys. They have organized activities for kids. A cub is a member of a den which meets once a week. Each den is a part of a pack and they meet once a month. The Scouts provides fun and new exciting things to do. The activities are meant to help boys become good citizens and care for others. The Cub Scouts help kids participate in good after school activities that help them to be a better person.

Girl Scouts is the World’s largest organization dedicated to helping girls. Building character, and gaining skills for the real world. Adult volunteers work with the girls to build character by helping them develop strong values, leadership skills, social conscience and conviction about their own potential and self-worth that will serve them all their live. The Girl Scouts started with only 18 members and has grown to nearly 4 million.

The Beacon Schools in New York , New York have services for parents and other adults. The activities included: education, sports, recreation, culturally specific programming, support for parental employment, opportunities to volunteer, intergenerational activities, support for families, and immigrant services. They also have activities for children that really bring families, schools, and communities closer together.