best 91 programs in Matthews, NC

Dear Families, Welcome to the wonderful world of Swift Nature Camp an overnight camp for boys and girls ages 6-15 located in the beautiful Northwoods of Wisconsin. I’m Lonnie, the Camp Director, and I’m thrilled to share what makes SNC such a special place for kids and families alike. For nearly 30 years, our mission has been to create an environment where children can grow, discover, and make lifelong memories. Here at camp, we focus on friendship, personal development, and a deep connection to nature—all in a fun, supportive, and adventurous setting. All this without cell phones One of the things that sets Swift Nature Camp apart is our focus on fostering independence and confidence. Whether it’s trying a new activity like canoeing, taking on a leadership role in a group project, or simply navigating life away from home, camp provides endless opportunities for personal growth. We celebrate each camper’s unique personality and encourage them to step outside their comfort zone in a safe and nurturing way. Seeing kids gain new skills and pride in their accomplishments is one of the most rewarding parts of what we do. For our youngest campers, Discovery Camp is an especially magical experience. Designed only for first-time campers ages 6-12, this shorter program gives kids a chance to experience the joys of camp life in a way that’s just right for them. It’s amazing to watch these kids try new things—from learning about the natural world to singing campfire songs—and leave camp with big smiles and even bigger stories to tell. Discovery Camp is often the beginning of a long and cherished relationship with SNC, and we’re so proud to see those first-time campers grow into confident and capable young people. Another cornerstone of Swift Nature Camp is our connection to the environment. We believe that nature isn’t just a backdrop for camp; it’s a teacher, a playground, and a source of endless wonder. Through hands-on activities like pond studies, wildlife observation, and outdoor adventures, campers develop an appreciation for the natural world that stays with them long after camp ends. The Camp Zoo is always a favorite, campers can even adopt a pet while at camp.Our goal is to inspire kids to become curious, mindful stewards of the environment. At Swift Nature Camp, there’s never a dull day! With hundreds of land and water activities, campers are always engaged and excited. On land, some favorites include the Lego Cabin, Arts & Crafts, Archery, and exploring the Nature Center. On the water, campers learn Canoeing, Fishing, and Swimming, but the absolute favorites are Tubing behind the boat and jumping off the Water Trampoline. Never is there a dull day because every day is packed with fun, adventure, and opportunities to try something new. Of course, none of this would be possible without the amazing friendships that form here. SNC is a place where kids truly feel like they belong. Campers and counselors alike bring warmth, kindness, and enthusiasm to everything we do, creating a strong sense of community. Whether it’s cheering each other on during a game, collaborating on a creative project, or sharing laughs around the campfire, the bonds formed at Swift Nature Camp are something truly special. Thank you for entrusting us with your children. It’s an honor to be part of their journey and to help create memories that will last a lifetime. If you have any questions or just want to chat about camp, don’t hesitate to reach out. I can’t wait to see what the next camp season holds and to welcome your family to another amazing summer at Swift Nature Camp.
At Tinkergarten, we believe that outdoor play is the best way for kids to learn and develop. Our classes, held in Matthews, North Carolina throughout the year, are designed to help children explore and discover nature and the environment. With the help of our curriculum and our experienced educators, children can learn about the world around them while having fun. We understand that it can be difficult for parents and caregivers to find the time and resources to make outdoor play a part of their children’s early learning experience. That’s why Tinkergarten offers year-round classes to ensure that families can get outside and make the most of their kids’ early learning years. With our live sessions, our curriculum to extend the play at home, and an engaging learning community, we make it easy for families to get outside and explore the world around them.

The Center is currently open for paid programming and some meeting groups. November's gallery display will feature the work of Cynthia Howard's adult artist students. This is a great opportunity for art lovers to come and explore the work of these talented students. The McDowell Arts Center offers an array of experiences for parents and children alike. From paid programming and meetings to gallery displays, the Center is a great place to explore and appreciate the arts. November's gallery show will showcase the work of Cynthia Howard's adult artist students. The display is sure to be a treat for art enthusiasts and a learning experience for all. The McDowell Arts Center is a great resource for parents and children alike. This November, visitors will have the opportunity to check out Cynthia Howard's adult artist students' work in the gallery. The Center is currently open for paid programming and some meeting groups, providing further opportunities for art appreciation. This is a great chance to explore the artistic talent of the local community.

At Charlotte Academy of Music, we recognize how important it is for students to have an environment that promotes learning and music education. Music lessons in the home can be easily interrupted by distractions, which can prevent students from learning effectively. That’s why we offer our students the opportunity to learn in a focused and inspiring environment, surrounded by a musical community. Our students have access to a variety of classes, workshops, ensembles, performances, competitions, and recitals, so they can gain a well-rounded music education experience. We invite you to join us and begin your musical journey.

The Brace Family YMCA was founded with the goal of strengthening communities and bringing families together. The Harris YMCA in Charlotte is a shining example of this mission in action, offering assistance to Latino immigrant families as they settle into their new home. We are proud to see our YMCA living out these values. The Harris YMCA is helping to make a lasting impact in our community by providing resources to Latino immigrant families. By connecting them with the support they need to adjust to their new home, the YMCA is helping to create a safe and welcoming environment for these families. The Brace Family YMCA is proud to have a branch that is living out our mission of bringing families together and strengthening our community. At the Brace Family YMCA, we are passionate about making a difference in the lives of families across the country. The Harris YMCA in Charlotte is a testament to this commitment, providing resources and support to Latino immigrant families as they settle into their new home. We are proud to see our YMCA bringing families together and strengthening our community in this meaningful way.

At the Matthews/Mint Hill Wrestling Club, we are dedicated to providing a safe and enjoyable environment for our youngest wrestlers. Our club has over 10 years of wrestling and coaching experience. We have created a program that teaches the fundamentals of wrestling, such as technique and strategy, as well as the importance of teamwork, confidence and having fun. No matter the experience level of your wrestler, we have something to offer. We provide a range of tournaments throughout the state, from beginner to advanced levels. Our goal is to ensure that each and every wrestler can participate and grow in a safe, nurturing environment.

At Carolina Martial Arts, they offer Aikido, Kempo/Kenpo, and Shotokan Karate classes for kids, men, and women in Matthews, NC. Located at 14017 E Independence Blvd., their well-run facility is the perfect place for anyone to learn the ancient art of martial arts. The experienced instructors at Carolina Martial Arts will help you find the right class for your skill level. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced martial artist, they’ll make sure you get the most out of your class. They also hold an annual tournament, the Carolina Open, that offers a safe and fun environment for everyone.
through focused, refined Martial Arts training. Our instructors are highly trained and certified in Uechi Ryu Karate and IOKA Kobudo classes. Our classes are available to kids, men and women in Matthews, North Carolina. At Toma Dojo, we take Martial Arts instruction seriously. Our instructors have decades of experience in teaching these styles of Martial Arts and are committed to helping our students reach their full potential. We believe that Martial Arts training can help improve self discipline, self confidence, focus and concentration. We strive to provide our students with a safe, positive and respectful learning environment. Our instructors are passionate about teaching and willing to work with each student to ensure their success. We are confident that our Martial Arts classes will have a positive impact on our students lives and help them reach their goals.
Master Song's Gold Meal TKD Academy is making waves in the sports world! Located in Korea, it has achieved the highest ranking by the World Taekwondo organization, making it the premier destination for Taekwondo enthusiasts. Now, the same world-class training is available stateside in North Carolina! Located conveniently close to Ultra Tan and Great Clips, Gold Medal Taekwondo Academy offers martial arts classes designed to develop character and self-defense classes to increase confidence and hone reflexes. Come join Master Song's Gold Meal TKD Academy and reap the benefits of Taekwondo training from an internationally-recognized leader! Whether you're a beginner or an experienced master, this academy has something for you.
Are you looking to give your little one the gift of music? Look no further than Kindermusik at the Matthews Community Center! Our innovative music-based educational program is designed to help children learn and grow during the most important years of their brain development. We offer classes for children as young as 3 months all the way up to 3 years old. Each class is accompanied by a caregiver, and multi-week sessions are offered throughout the year. Kindermusik at Matthews Community Center is the perfect way to give your child the joy of music! Our educational program focuses on helping children learn and grow during the most critical stage for brain development. Classes are available for children from 3 months to 3 years old, with an accompanying caregiver each class. We offer multi-week sessions throughout the year, so you can give your little one the gift of music for longer.