Some of the most memorable moments growing up can happen outside of the classroom. Playing on a team, learning a new instrument, performing, or exploring nature are stepping stones throughout a child’s life.
Extracurricular activities offer more than something to fill time. They give space to explore interests, build relationships, and develop confidence while also teaching important life skills such as teamwork, communication, leadership, and responsibility. These experiences help kids gain real-world experience and grow beyond academics.
For families at New Durham Estates, kids have opportunities to stay active and engaged throughout the community, from Westville Schools to local parks and organizations. Here’s a look at what’s available around Westville:
Sports
For those who enjoy staying active throughout the year, Westville has a variety of sports options for nearly every age and interest, including:
Westville Blackhawks Athletics – Offers many athletic opportunities. This includes basketball, baseball, cross-country, golf, gymnastics, pom pon, cheer, soccer, track and field, softball, volleyball, and wrestling.
The Greater Westville Athletic Association (GWAA) – Offers youth baseball and softball summer league programs.
Clubs & Organizations
Not every child is interested in joining a sports team. Clubs and organizations give another way to explore curiosity, take on leadership roles, and connect with peers.
Westville Elementary School – Makes it easy for students to get involved starting at a young age. They offer clubs such as You Can Make a Difference Club, Student Council, Challenger Club, Student Ambassadors, and Westville Reads. See the full list of clubs here.
Westville Middle/High School – Provides students with a range of clubs and organizations to get involved in, including the Academic Super Bowl, Art Club, DECA, FFA, and P7 Bible Club. See the full list of clubs here.
Westville 4-H Club – This organization connects local youth to hands-on experiences, community service, volunteering, and projects. For children interested in agriculture, STEM, cooking, photography, or other projects, 4-H can be a great way to explore these interests.
Boys and Girls Club of LaPorte County – The Westville-area club provides opportunities for youth to learn outside the classroom. They are committed to academic success, character development, and healthy lifestyles.
Arts, Creativity & Learning
Some children gravitate towards creative outlets such as music, theatre, and other educational experiences. These interests build confidence, learning, and self-expression.
Westville Elementary School – Students can participate in events and activities such as the Wax Museum, Camp Invention, Camp Tecumseh, and Theatre.
Westville Middle/High School – Students can participate in opportunities such as band, choir, theatre, Career & College Fairs, and the Building Blackhawks Mentor Program.
Westville – New Durham Township Public Library – Located in the center of town, the library provides a community resource for reading, learning, and education.
Parks & Nature
Sometimes the best extracurricular activity is spending time outdoors. Staying engaged can also mean spending an afternoon outside, riding a bike, playing at the park, or exploring a trail. With nearby outdoor spots, families don’t have to travel far from home.
Bluhm County Park – Covering 96 acres, Bluhm County Park is located a short walk from New Durham Estates. It offers hiking, biking, geocaching, horseback riding, and playgrounds for the whole family to enjoy.
Prairie Meadow Park – This 5-acre native prairie is located in the heart of Westville. It includes paved trails, playgrounds, pickleball courts, and softball fields.
Zona Wildlife Sanctuary – A kid-friendly nature sanctuary with trails for families and dogs.
Getting Involved
Staying engaged in extracurriculars looks different for everyone. For some children, it may be a sport, a school club, a visit to the library, or trying something new. Our community is full of wonderful coaches, teachers, leaders, and workers who care and support us at every step of the way.
For families at New Durham Estates, living in Westville means being surrounded by a community full of opportunities. With back-to-school this season, we hope everyone has a great year ahead!
See what it looks like to grow your family in a community with plenty for your kids to explore. Learn more about New Durham Estates by clicking here.
