Helsinki - Post Report Question and Answers
Are local sports classes and/or activities available for kids?
Yes, lots. Dance, soccer, swimming, gymnastics, tennis, etc. Mostly in Finnish but the coaches were always very accommodating for our kids. - Dec 2022
Finns are very into hobbies, and sports and recreational activities are widely available. Some activities that embassy children participate in include: cheerleading, gymnastics, tennis, downhill ski lessons and teams, ice hockey, soccer, basketball, dance, sailing, wrestling, indoor climbing, etc. - Oct 2021
Helsinki youth sports operate on the club system, which can be difficult for expatriates to navigate. Hockey and soccer are the most popular club sports, although sports as esoteric as lacrosse are available. American football and a Finnish version of baseball are also available. However, sports offerings through schools are more limited, and may not meet the needs of very active families. - Oct 2018
Ice Hockey is prevalent and very competitive. Gymnastics/ballet for females is plentiful. - Jul 2012
Tons of sport programs for kids, if you don't mind learning Finnish. - Jan 2011
There are some, but those in English are limited. There are of course several options in Finnish, and I know children who have gone that route and have had a great experience. - May 2010
Yes. - Apr 2009
