Extracurricular Activities for Kids in Valencia: Where Learning Meets Adventure
One of the best parts about raising children in Valencia is the incredible range of extracurricular activities available for kids of all ages. Whether your little one dreams of performing on stage, scaling a rock wall, or mastering karate, this city is full of inspiring opportunities that go far beyond the classroom. For families relocating from the U.S., these activities not only help children make friends but also provide an invaluable window into Spanish life and culture.
Creative Arts: Where Imagination Comes to Life
For budding artists, Centro Cíclope is a cozy, light-filled studio in the Arrancapins neighborhood that offers weekly art classes and creative workshops for kids. Our oldest adores her time here—drawing with ideas flowing freely, and the joy of expression that transcends language. Cíclope’s classes are offered in Spanish with some English also spoken as needed, creating a gentle bridge for new arrivals adjusting to a bilingual environment.
Drama and Performance: Confidence on Stage and Beyond
For families looking for a fun, English-speaking activity, Acting in English offers engaging drama classes that nurture confidence, teamwork, and imagination. Kids rehearse scenes, develop characters, and even perform in local theater productions. It’s a wonderful way for English-speaking children to connect with peers while dipping their toes into Valencia’s creative arts scene.
Martial Arts: Discipline, Focus, and Fun
Karate is another favorite among expat and local families alike. Club Deportivo Ashihara Karate in Arrancapins emphasizes respect, perseverance, and self-control while offering classes for all skill levels. The dojo has a welcoming, community-based atmosphere that makes it easy for kids to feel at home, even when they’re new to Spain. Our oldest loves bowing in, learning kata, and proudly earning her stripes one belt at a time.
Outdoor Action: Skateboarding and Parkour
Few cities make outdoor sports as accessible as Valencia. Between the Turia River Park and dozens of urban plazas, there’s always a place to roll, jump, or climb. If your child has a need for speed, check out Start Skate—a dynamic skateboarding school offering lessons for all ages and skill levels. Coaches are patient, safety-focused, and bilingual, which helps international families feel comfortable joining right away.
For those with a flair for movement and adventure, Motion Academy offers classes in parkour, acrobatics, and freerunning. Our kids love the challenge of vaulting over obstacles and building confidence through physical creativity. It’s a perfect fit for active kids who thrive when movement feels like play.
Rock Climbing: Strength, Strategy, and Community
Our family’s personal favorite is Laif Climbing Gym, located in the Benicalap District. The instructors are fantastic with children—teaching balance, safety, and focus while keeping things fun. Laif offers both indoor bouldering and top-rope climbing for kids, plus parents can join in. There’s something deeply satisfying about watching your child strategize each move, then ring the bell at the top with a huge grin.
Learning Spanish Through Passion
While many of these programs offer English support, we’ve found that our children’s Spanish skills have taken off most dramatically when they’re doing what they love—completely immersed in Spanish. Art at Cíclope, karate at Ashihara, and climbing at Laif have all become natural extensions of their learning. It’s not always easy after a long day of school; mentally, it can be a stretch. But the growth is remarkable. Watching Frances explain a drawing to her teacher in Spanish, or hearing Evelyn count push-ups with her classmates, reminds us how powerful genuine engagement can be for language acquisition. They’re not just practicing Spanish—they’re living it.
Additional Ideas for Active Families
Valencia’s climate and layout make it ideal for year-round outdoor fun. The city’s extensive bike paths encourage families to ride together safely—whether through the Turia Gardens or along the beachfront promenade.
Why Extracurriculars Matter When You Move Abroad
For expat children, joining after-school programs is one of the fastest ways to integrate into local life. Kids form friendships that cross language barriers, build confidence in navigating new environments, and get daily doses of fun and movement. Parents benefit, too—meeting other families, learning Spanish in context, and developing social circles that extend far beyond the school gate.
As a parenting coach, I often remind families that connection and belonging are at the heart of a healthy transition. Whether your child finds that through painting, performing, climbing, or skating—the key is consistency and joy. Activities here are affordable, community-driven, and easy to access by metro, bus, or bike. And best of all, kids in Valencia spend more time outdoors and less time glued to screens—a refreshing change for many families coming from the U.S.
Helpful Resources for New Families
Here are a few links that can help you discover even more kid-friendly options in Valencia:
Visit Valencia – Official tourism site with listings for cultural and family events.
Meetup Valencia Families – Find English-speaking family groups and weekend activities.
School Options for U.S. Families in Valencia – Explore education pathways from public to international schools.
Best Valencia Neighborhoods for Families – See which areas are close to parks, schools, and kids’ activities.
A Mom’s Guide to Living Near the Turia River Park – Discover the heart of outdoor family life in Valencia.
Whether your family is already settled or still dreaming of a move, Valencia makes it easy to raise curious, confident kids who see the world as an adventure. With classes like these, every week feels full of growth, laughter, and new experiences—exactly the kind of childhood we hoped for when we decided to call Spain home.
—Amanda Chigbrow
Founder of LaVidalencia
@LaVidalencia | LaVidalencia.com