KidsLocal
Not every good kids' activity comes with a big price tag. Our directory lists 13 public organizations — libraries, town recreation departments, and after-school programs — that are free or low-cost. Start here before you spend.
Libraries: more than books
Belmont Public Library runs children's programming beyond borrowing — story times, crafts, and events. Most public libraries in the area do the same; check your town library's children's calendar even if it's not in our directory yet.
Town recreation departments
Belmont Recreation Department, Arlington Recreation, Watertown Recreation, and Winchester Recreation run affordable classes, sports leagues, and seasonal programs for residents. The Belmont Dolphins Swim Team (Oct–Mar) is one example of a rec-department program. Resident rates are typically well below private equivalents.
After-school programs
BASEC and Butler Extended Day (BEDP) in Belmont, Fidelity House in Arlington, plus Cambridge YMCA and Watertown Boys & Girls Club offer after-school care with activities built in — often the most economical way to cover the 3–6pm gap.
Community education & media
Belmont Community Education offers low-cost evening and weekend classes; Belmont Media Center teaches media production — a rare free-ish path into video and storytelling skills.
How to use this list
- Check your town's rec department first — it's the single best value for residents.
- Library children's calendars are free and updated monthly.
- After-school programs often have sliding-scale fees; ask.
Program details change seasonally — confirm on each organization's official site via their KidsLocal listing.