Children can watch three minor league sports teams in Portland. The southern Maine city has the Sea Dogs baseball team, the Pirates ice hockey team and the Maine Red Claws basketball team. Kids can then try the sports themselves in city leagues, as well as a range of other activities. Portland keeps children physically busy and healthy.
Golf
Kids from 5 to 17 in the Portland area can learn golf and life skills through The First Tee of Maine program. In addition to driving and putting, instructors teach values such as courtesy, perseverance and sportsmanship. The program is held at the organization’s private facility that includes a four-hole instructional course and a putting green.
Ice Skating
Children age 4 and above can take ice skating lessons at the Portland Ice Arena. Kids advance to higher skilled classes once mastering the basics. Additionally, the arena holds public skate sessions. Ice skate rentals are available starting with child size 8. The city’s Recreation and Facilities Management department runs the venue.
Team Sports
Portland children can learn how to play sports and compete in organized leagues. Governing bodies include the Portland Youth Football league, Portland Area Youth Soccer, Back Bay Lacrosse, Casco Bay Hockey Association and Little League Baseball. The city also has facilities for practices and pickup games with friends.
Swimming
The city runs three aquatic facilities--the indoor “Hap” Frank Pool at the Reiche School and Community Center, the indoor Harold Paulson Pool at the Riverton School and Community Center and the outdoor Kiwanis Pool during the summer. The pools offer swim lessons beginning with a parent and child class for children 6 months to 4. Additionally, people 15 and over can take a lifeguard training class.
Farmers Market
It’s never too early to introduce children to the right foods to eat. The Portland Farmers' Market features around 30 Maine farmers selling fresh fruits and vegetables. Parents can make it a fun experience by allowing their child to choose something different each week to sample. Or, they can design a scavenger hunt and have kids check off the food items after finding them. The market is open from May through November on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday.
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