School is in full swing, and your kiddos’ after-school schedules are either filling up or need filling quickly. You want an activity that tires them out but is also mentally stimulating, provides social interaction, and is fun. Many after-school programs exist, but one of the best options that checks off all the boxes is rock climbing. 

Rock climbing presents a unique physical and mental challenge that builds critical problem-solving skills and unmatched physical strength. The community is also one of a kind, leading kids and parents alike to form lasting friendships that keep them coming back again and again. At Rock Spot, we believe in empowering youth through climbing from as early as age 1. That’s why we offer youth programming for ages 1-18. Our South Boston location provides a range of kids’ classes and competitive teams, catering to young climbers of all ages and abilities. Keep reading to learn more about after-school climbing activities for your kiddos in South Boston!

Ready for your little ones to try climbing in a safe and fun environment? Toddler Time is a 50-minute program designed for children aged 1 to 3 years old. The program takes place when the facility is partially closed to the general public, ensuring a safe environment for participants to enjoy climbing-related activities. Staff are available to assist during the 50 minutes, but Rock Spot requires direct supervision by the accompanying adult(s). 

Days: Every first and third Saturday

Times: 8:10 am – 9:00 am

Price: $16 for first child, $14 for siblings

Rock Spot offers four tiers of classes, each catered to a different age group and/or skill level. Perks of signing your child up for Youth Program classes include a Rock Spot Membership with membership perks. All classes enjoy a low student-to-staff ratio, ensuring your child receives the attention they deserve to stay safe and succeed. 

Designed for children aged 4-6, Little Senders classes meet once a week for 45 minutes. The course structure introduces kids to climbing, helps them become comfortable on the wall, and helps them overcome fears such as a fear of heights or falling. 

Days: Sunday, Monday, or Thursday

Junior Senders caters to kids ages 6-8. The class meets weekly for a 1-hour session. The program focuses on ropes climbing, teaching kids proper climbing technique, safety, and climbing knots, as well as the basics of belaying. 

Days: Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, or Saturday

Do you have a 9- to 12-year-old who is comfortable on the wall and looking for a greater challenge? Super Senders might be the program for them. This 1.5-hour class meets weekly and caters to all levels of climbers, helping them take their climbing ability to the next level.

Days: Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, or Saturday

Teen Senders is a weekly, 1.5-hour class for teens ages 13 and up. In addition to learning about climbing and progressing their skills, they’ll have the opportunity to socialize and connect with peers who also enjoy rock climbing. 

Days: Sunday, Tuesday, Friday, or Saturday

For more information on pricing and specific times, contact the program manager at progammanagerSBO@rockspotclimbing.com or call (617) 269 – 2084. 

If you homeschool your kids and they have a different schedule than traditional after-school programs, Rock Spot offers two homeschool programs, depending on the age of your child. The first program is designed for children aged eight and under, while the other is intended for those aged nine and above. Both programs meet weekly for a one-hour session. A certified Rock Spot staff member leads sessions. During the classes, your kids will have the opportunity to meet and interact with other homeschool students while developing climbing and safety skills. 

Both groups meet on Wednesdays. For more information on pricing and specific times, contact the program manager at progammanagerSBO@rockspotclimbing.com or call (617) 269 – 2084. 

Do you have a child who has been climbing for a while or who has expressed a greater interest in climbing? Maybe they’ve advanced beyond the curriculum in the Recreational Classes or needed a greater challenge. If any of these are the case, consider trying out one of Rock Spots’ Competitive Climbing Teams. There are three team options:

All teams are invite-only, which means your child has to undergo a formal tryout process before being placed on the appropriate team. 

Pre-Team is an intro-level team where your child will develop a strong foundation of skills to advance their climbing. Each practice is 1.5 hours. There is an option to participate once a week or twice a week, with different pricing depending on the chosen option for your child. The team will cover more advanced belaying and climbing techniques than in a recreational class. The kids also have the opportunity to compete in regional climbing competitions. The goal of Pre-Team is to help all climbers develop the skill set to advance to Team Rock Spot. 

Days: Tuesday and/or Thursday

Team Rock Spot practices three times per week. The program caters to youth who are serious about climbing and want to compete at a high level in the USA Climbing youth circuit. On Team Rock Spot, the coaching staff will design practices that will physically and mentally challenge your child to advance their lead climbing and bouldering abilities. 

Days: Tuesday and Thursday

If you think that Toddler Time, Recreational Classes, Homeschool Group, or the Competitive Teams would be a great fit for your child, reach out to the gym to find out the next steps. You can contact the program manager at progammanagerSBO@rockspotclimbing.com, call (617) 269 – 2084, or stop by the South Boston gym anytime we’re open. Hours are 8 am – 10 pm on Sunday, Monday, Friday, and Saturday, and 6:30 am – 10 pm on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. We’d love for your kids to learn about climbing with us and develop into strong individuals!