Not every child finds their passion on the soccer field or basketball court. I know this from experience because it’s the truth both for myself, and my two children. While my sister loved the competitiveness and comradery of her soccer team, I was more likely to thrive in creative, adventurous, or individualized pursuits. If your child is also following this path, the Seacoast area is bursting with opportunities to match their interests and spark their joy. Here are ten Seacoast activities for the kid who is not into team sports.
10 Seacoast Activities for the Kid Who Is Not Into Team Sports
1. Seacoast Theater
If your child loves storytelling, acting, or being in the spotlight, look for a theater program to encourage and nurture their passion. Pine Street Players in Exeter has a youth theater program nurtures creativity while teaching teamwork and communication skills. Kids can shine on stage or explore the behind-the-scenes magic of stagecraft. It’s an enriching, non-competitive environment where budding performers can truly thrive. Other local programs include children’s plays at Epping Community Theater kids programs, Upside Arts in Portsmouth, Seacoast Rep Theater Classes, and Rochester Performing Arts Center classes.
2. Local Art Programs
For kids who love to draw, paint, or craft, art programs are a fantastic way to express themselves. Check out:
- ARTastic in Hampton Falls: Offers playful and inspiring art workshops for all ages.
- The Art Room in Newmarket: Focused on nurturing creativity through classes and camps.
- Artstream in Rollinsford: A studio providing in-depth art education in various mediums.
Art classes encourage self-expression while teaching valuable techniques and providing a creative outlet.
3. Horseback Riding
Horseback riding combines a love of animals with physical activity and fosters both responsibility and independence. Lessons at local stables teach kids not only how to ride but also how to care for their equine companions. Check out these local options:
- Wishmaker Stables in Rollinsford.
- Hilltop Equestrian Center in Somersworth.
- Goodrich Farm in Berwick.
- Triple D Equestrians in East Kingston
- Taylor River Farm in Hampton Falls.
Whether your child dreams of trail rides or mastering horsemanship, these facilities offer a supportive and engaging environment.
4. Indoor Rock Climbing
If your child is always climbing furniture or scaling trees, why not try indoor rock climbing?! Facilities like Indoor Ascent in Dover and MetroRock in Newburyport provide safe spaces for kids to learn climbing techniques, develop problem-solving skills, and build strength. With a mix of guided classes and open climbing sessions, this activity is both engaging and challenging. Our family has enjoyed visiting these facilities together — check out my past post on it!
5. Music Lessons
For kids with a love of melody, music lessons are a wonderful way to nurture their talents. Whether they dream of playing an instrument or singing their hearts out, the Seacoast has many options:
- PMAC (Portsmouth Music and Arts Center) in Portsmouth.
- Ms. Heather’s Music Studio for younger children.
- Seacoast Academy of Music for structured music education.
- TuneTown in Wells.
- Rochester Performing Arts Center for a dynamic range of music programs.
Music helps build discipline, creativity, and self-expression — and it’s a skill they will carry for life.
6. Snapology/STEM
At Snapology, kids engage in hands-on STEM activities, from robotics to creative building projects. This program encourages innovation and teamwork while turning science, technology, and engineering into exciting adventures. It’s a perfect fit for curious minds who love to tinker and create. My kids love either dropping in or taking a class! It’s a great spot for birthday parties, too.
7. Scouts
For kids who want to try a variety of activities while building friendships and life skills, Cub Scouts (co-ed) and Girl Scouts are both fantastic options. From earning badges to camping and community service, these programs teach responsibility, teamwork, and independence. We are a scout family and it has really opened my kids up to lots of collaborative learning opportunities.
8. KidStrong/Ninja
KidStrong offers a unique mix of physical, social, and mental challenges tailored to kids’ developmental needs. With classes that focus on strength, resilience, and problem-solving, this program empowers kids to grow strong inside and out in a supportive and fun environment. Local gymnastics gyms like Atlantic Gymnastics and Seacoast Gymnastics Center also offer similar programs called Ninja! This is a fun, noncompetitive way to move the body and play with others.
9. Ice Skating Lessons
My family has really embraced this pastime! Ice skating combines physical fitness with grace and coordination. It’s perfect for kids who love the feel of gliding on ice, or just want to try something different. Several local rinks offer excellent skating lessons for all skill levels:
- Great Bay Figure Skating Club for focused, supportive training.
- The Rinks at Exeter, with programs for beginners and advanced skaters.
- Rochester Recreation Department, offering community-focused lessons.
- Dover Ice Arena, a popular spot for youth programs.
- Jackson Landing in Durham, an outdoor rink for a scenic skating experience in winter.
Ice skating is a fun, rewarding way to stay active year-round — and is an especially welcome hobby on a hot summer day!
10. Skiing
If your child loves outdoor adventures, skiing is an excellent way to stay active in winter while building confidence and balance. Local ski areas like King Pine, Gunstock, and Pats Peak offer top-notch learning programs for beginners and beyond. With supportive instructors and kid-friendly slopes, your child can enjoy a fun, non-competitive way to stay active and make the most of New England’s snowy season. Skiing has been something our family has decided to invest in so we have a recreational activity we can all enjoy together in winter. Check out my previous post on how I started my son skiing near the Seacoast.
Final Thoughts
Whether they’re painting masterpieces, climbing walls, gliding across the ice, or conquering the slopes, every child can find an activity that matches their unique interests. I feel so fortunate to have such a rich variety of options near the Seacoast that can help kids explore their passions and build their confidence. These ten Seacoast activities for the kid who is not into team sports simply scratches the surface of what’s offered in the area!
