“Playing is a kid’s most important job,” explains Laura Petrolino, founder and owner of MEPowered Pastries, a kid-focused bakery and learning studio in Scarborough. “There is nothing more magical than watching a kid explore a new activity or experience and how their phenomenal brains come alive with curiosity, discovery, and new understanding about themselves and the world around them,” she adds. Across southern Maine, a variety of businesses provide unique, creative learning opportunities for children of all ages. Whether your child prefers getting active, unleashing their creativity, or exploring the environment, they're sure to love these fun activities in or around Portland.
Salt Pump Climbing Co.
Climbing comes naturally to children, and this stimulating activity allows kids to express themselves through movement while building confidence. Youth climbing programs give kids a place to solve problems, work together, explore calculated risks, and learn that we all fall on our way to the top. Salt Pump offers camps, after-school programs, climbing teams, and drop-in visits. saltpumpclimbing.com
Color Me Mine
What better way to experience the arts than by painting pottery and letting your imagination soar? Color Me Mine provides a forum for kids to express their creativity and have fun in a pressure-free environment. Great for birthday parties, rainy days, and painting presents for mom and dad (don’t forget the grandparents!), the studio offers walk-in painting hours in addition to scheduled events. portland.colormemine.com
Doru Fitness
Looking for a way to keep your child active while fitting in your own workout? Doru Fitness co-owners and trainers Andie Dodge and Meagan Rudge offer a children's boxing program alongside their mobile boot camp for adults. Kids will have a blast learning proper technique and coordination, and you can relax knowing they’re in a safe and fun environment as you focus on your own fitness. dorufitness.com
MEPowered Pastries
Owner Laura Petrolino is empowering kid chefs one whisk, knead, sprinkle, and delicious baking adventure at a time. Using a bake, play, learn model, her small-group classes focus on local ingredients and are generally recommended for children ages 3 and up. MEPowered Pastries also offers a Chef Toddler class designed specifically to support the fun and active development period of toddlerhood. mepoweredpastries.com
Maine Warrior Gym
The Ninja Squad program is a great way for children to gain foundational athleticism and learn the joys of physical fitness. Students are taught a unique blend of parkour and ninja warrior skills that provide the tools and knowledge to approach new challenges with confidence and to believe in their ability to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Plus, it’s tons of fun! Classes are available for kids ages 1-14. mainewarriorgym.com
Ice Cream Train
Part of the Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Company and Museum, the Ice Cream Train is the perfect way to spend a summer evening with the family. Hop on board the historic steam or diesel train for a 40-minute scenic ride along Casco Bay with a complimentary ice cream treat in hand. The Ice Cream Train runs every Friday in August at 6 pm and 7 pm. mainenarrowgauge.org
Terrarium
Some kids just really like getting dirty, and visiting a garden center and workspace for build-your-own terrarium creations where it’s totally okay to make a mess is exactly what they need. Owners Anna and Rob Sinnott know just how to get kids excited about plants (and bugs) while guiding them in creating a tiny, enclosed ecosystem to take home. terrariumportlandme.com
SailMaine
A nonprofit organization that supports sailing in Maine at the community level, SailMaine offers youth summer programs to help junior sailors learn the basics of sailing and develop respect for Casco Bay’s marine environment. Programs are designed for youngsters to improve their confidence while gaining skills and creating lasting friendships. Sessions fill up quickly, so keep an eye out for next summer's registration dates. sailmaine.org