What does the Children's Activities Association mean for parents and families? 

The Children's Activities Association want to support and encourage your desire to enrol your children in extracurricular activities, but we don't want the process to be stressful. We understand the benefits that clubs, classes, and activities provide for children and how they enhance family life, and we believe that every parent should have confidence that their children will be safe and well-cared for while in the care of children's activity providers.

Every parent knows time is precious and life with kids is an everyday juggling act of school, homework, class commitments and family time.  When considering signing your child up for an activity, look for the Children's Activities Association kitemark to be assured that that provider has signed up to a carefully designed 'code of practice' that covers vital considerations such as safeguarding, training, and health and safety.

You won't have to contact the organisers until you're ready to book, and you won't have to wait for responses or wade through confusing terms and conditions.

Our tips for finding an extra-curricular activity for your child 

Keep an eye out for trial classes. Many organisers offer a free trial, which indicates that the class leader is confident that you will enjoy what they have to offer and the experience enough to sign up.

Word-of-mouth. Your local network of Mummies and Daddies is still very important in assisting you in making your decisions, so ask around, get recommendations, and don't forget to ask your friends if the activities their children participate in are accredited by the Children's Activities Association.

Even the best classes aren't right for every child, so trust your instincts, talk it over with your child, even if they're very young, and make sure you consider other factors like timings, accessibility, parking, and availability.