Back-to-School: Free youth programs, recreational activities and family-friendly festivities

The sharing of any non-VA information does not constitute an endorsement of products and services on the part of VA. Veterans should verify the information with the organization offering.

As summer comes to an end and the school year begins, it’s an exciting time of the year for young people and their families. Whether you’re getting back into the swing of things, adjusting to a new routine, or simply looking for additional resources to support with the transition, pencil us in because we’ve got you covered with free to low-cost programs, recreational activities and family-friendly fun to make this back-to-school season the best yet!

Free educational programs for youth

Military Kids Connect: Social connection, emotional support and leisure activities are three essential factors that help our military and Veteran-connected youth thrive in school. MKC is an online platform that offers a robust number of resources to achieve that outcome. View MKC’s fact sheet at Military-Kids-Connect (health.mil).

G.I. Bill for Dependents: For young adults entering their next chapter in life, Veterans and their families may be eligible for education benefits under the Post-9/11 G.I. Bill. Explore this opportunity for tuition assistance, scholarships and more at VA Education and Training Benefits.

Free online tutoring: Explore the many Veteran-focused organizations, such as Military Families Eligible for DoD Tutoring Program at Tutor.com, that offers free educational services in various subjects to ensure academic success and achievement for students.

School supply drives: Connect and check in with your local Veterans Service Organizations, religious and faith-based groups, or local VA back-to-school drives that support and provide materials and supplies for military families.

Recreational fun for youth

Operation Homefront’s Back-to-School Brigade: From school supplies to recreational activities, Operation Homefront offers various activities throughout the year, including sport leagues, summer camps and after-school programs for military kids. More info online.

Boys & Girls Club of America (BGCA) Military Youth Programs: With a free membership available to military families, Boys & Girls Clubs of America Military Youth Centers provide a safe space for a Veteran’s youth to engage in physical activities, tap into their creative sides through art, and enhance their skills and abilities through leadership programs.

YMCA Military Outreach Initiative: Enjoy swimming, fitness classes and other family-friendly recreational activities nation-wide at your local YMCA. Military and Veteran families can access this membership and respite childcare services for free or at a discounted rate. Also, many local YMCA’s offer “Middle School Madness,” a youth-focused event where kids get the YMCA all to themselves. It’s a great way to build meaningful connections, engage in fun activities, socialize and practice independence! Visit YMCA Military Outreach for additional information.

National Parks and Recreation Discounts: Plan the perfect weekend getaway or a simple day trip for a change of scenery! National parks are free to Veterans, and many state parks and recreational facilities offer free to little-cost entry for military and Veteran families. Check out parks and recreation facilities near you and explore U.S. National Park Service for additional resources.

VA Student Volunteer Program: Volunteers are community liaisons, and they’re essential to every VA medical center. Let your youth explore and build valuable experience and training with opportunities at VA! Connect with your local VA’s Center for Development and Civic Engagement Department to learn more about the Student Volunteer Program or visit Student Volunteer Program – VA Center for Development and Civic Engagement.

Military and Veteran family-friendly engagements

Free museum days: Museums are known for their educational and interactive abilities to bring families together. Many museums show appreciation by offering free admission for our Nation’s heroes, including through the Blue Star Museums National Endowment for the Arts Program!

Library Programs for Veterans: Libraries are a place for serenity, learning and connecting. Sometimes they even host community social events, such as movie nights, book club programs, story times and craft events. Check out your local library to see what fun, free events they may have to offer!

Local community events: Connect with your local Veterans Service Organizations to see what family-friendly hosted events are happening right in your area, such as holiday-themed events, movie nights and cook-outs! This is a great opportunity to build connections and camaraderie with other military families at free to low-cost festivities.

Sports clinics and camps: No matter if you’re in a big city to a rural area, most communities offer free to low-cost sporting clinics and programs for youth to participate in! From Veteran organizations to university campuses, check out your local organizations and facilities for upcoming opportunities your kids can physically and socially engage in.