From Robotics to Rock Climbing: 80+ Ways to Make More of After School

What happens after the final bell rings at DAIS?

A Grade 3 student heads to robotics club to build and program a robot. Nearby, another is tackling a Kangaroo Maths challenge. Across campus, Secondary students are preparing for the AMC, researching for National History Day, practicing debate, or taking on the climbing wall.

This fall, students at Dalian American International School have more than 80 clubs, activities, and athletic programs to choose from. One of this year's biggest developments is in Elementary School: the number of free ASAs has nearly doubled compared with last year. 

^{Secondary students mentoring younger learners} 

Almost every Elementary teacher now leads a free activity or coaches a sports team. Teaching assistants and Secondary student mentors have also joined the program, broadening the range of activities available to students.

Behind the bigger selection is an equally important focus on quality. This year's ASA program was reviewed by the school leadership team to ensure that every activity has a clear purpose and educational value.

80+ After-School Activities Across Six Key Areas

Academics, Thinking & Competitions

• Kangaroo Maths
• AMC Math Competition Preparation
• Math Support
• Tangram
• JELIC
• Curious Kids
• Rubik's Cube
• Homework Tutoring / Homework Club
• Critical Thinking
• National History Day (NHD)
• World Scholar's Cup
• Science Club
• Library & Reading Club
• Adventures in Reading & Writing

Technology, AI & Innovation

• Coding & Robotics
• Creator's Coding Club
• AI Creative Coding
• C++ Programming
• UAV
• V5 Robotics Competition Club
• Startup Club: Problem Solving with Coding
• Media Club
• Movie Production
• Little Makers Club

Languages, Literacy & Communication

• Chinese Story Club
• Creative Writing Club
• English Practice with Film Scenes
• Phonics Readers Club
• English Language
• Mother's English
• Spanish Club
• Speech and Debate Club
• Debate Club
• Presentation Skills
• Broadcasting and Hosting
• Calligraphy & Chinese Literacy

Arts, Music & Creativity

• Creativity with Clay
• Diamond Painting
• Little Hands Sand Art
• Ultra-light Clay
• Wool Weaving
• Artisan Kids
• Art Creation
• Comprehensive Art
• Sketch & Ink
• DIY
• Music Club
• Ukulele Club
• Guitar
• Sheng Music Journey
• Cartoon
• Sand Painting
• Latin Dance Club
• Jazz Dance Club
• Chinese Ethnic Dance

Sports, Wellbeing & Challenge

• Soccer – U8/U10
• Advanced Basketball
• Swimming
• Table Tennis
• Golf
• Horse Riding
• Surfskate – Basic/Advanced
• Boxing
• Track & Field Fitness
• Rock Climbing
• Foundations of Movement
• Monkeynastics Movement
• Outdoor Adventure & Leadership

Leadership, Business & Real-World Learning

• Future Financiers Club
• Young Entrepreneurs Society
• Board Game Club
• Film Analysis and Appreciation Club

More than 80 activities isn't just about keeping students busy after school. It means more opportunities for every student to try something new and to find something that truly interests them beyond the classroom.