How to Open a Kids Club: Step‑by‑Step Guide
Oct, 18 2025
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When you think about starting a Kids Club a community‑based program that offers supervised activities for children after school hours, the first question is usually - what does it actually take? This guide walks you through every major piece, from idea to opening day, so you can feel confident that you’re covering the legal, financial, and practical bases.
1. Clarify the purpose and target age group
Before signing any paperwork, write a short mission statement. Ask yourself: Do you want to focus on sports, arts, STEM, or a mix? Which ages will you serve? Most successful clubs start with a narrow focus (for example, a robotics club for 8‑12‑year‑olds) and expand later. Having a clear purpose helps you choose volunteers, design activities, and market the club.
2. Choose the legal structure
In Queensland, the simplest route is to register as a not‑for‑profit association. This gives you a formal ABN (Australian Business Number) and makes you eligible for certain grants. If you prefer a for‑profit model, you’ll need to set up a company with ASIC and obtain an ABN as well.
Key steps:
- Apply for an ABN through the Australian Business Register.
- Register the association or company name with the Queensland Office of Fair Trading.
- Draft a constitution that outlines membership, governance, and financial reporting.
Most community‑based clubs find the not‑for‑profit route cheaper and easier to get volunteer support.
3. Secure the necessary permits and checks
Safety is non‑negotiable. Every adult who works directly with children must hold a Working with Children Check (WWCC). The club itself should also align with the Child Safe Standards published by the Queensland Government.
- Apply for WWCC online; processing usually takes 10‑14 days.
- Develop a child‑safe policy covering supervision ratios, incident reporting, and privacy.
- Consider obtaining Public Liability Insurance to protect against accidents.
4. Find a suitable venue
Typical locations include community centres, school halls after hours, or church halls. When evaluating a space, ask these questions:
- Is there a safe, fenced outdoor area for active play?
- Are there accessible washrooms and a first‑aid kit?
- What is the hourly cost and does the venue offer a discount for non‑profits?
Signing a short‑term lease or a usage agreement with a Local Council can provide stability and credibility.
5. Build a team of volunteers and staff
Even a modest club benefits from at least one qualified supervisor per 8‑10 children. Recruit through local schools, universities, or parent groups. Offer clear role descriptions, background‑check assistance, and a modest stipend if your budget allows.
Key volunteer roles:
- Program Director - oversees curriculum and scheduling.
- Activity Leaders - run specific sessions (e.g., art, sport).
- Admin Coordinator - handles enrolments, invoices, and communication.
6. Design the program and schedule
Use an Activity Planner to map out weekly themes. Mix structured learning (e.g., a 30‑minute science experiment) with free play to keep kids engaged. Sample weekly schedule for a 3‑hour club:
- 15 min - Welcome, snack, and safety brief.
- 45 min - Core activity (e.g., robotics).
- 15 min - Break and outdoor play.
- 45 min - Secondary activity (e.g., creative writing).
- 30 min - Wrap‑up, parent pick‑up, and feedback.
Include a short evaluation form for parents to gauge satisfaction and identify improvement areas.
7. Set a realistic budget
Typical cost categories for a 20‑child club:
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Venue hire | $300 |
| Materials & supplies | $150 |
| Insurance | $80 |
| Volunteer stipends | $200 |
| Marketing | $50 |
| Total | $780 |
Explore grants from the Queensland Department of Education or local businesses that might sponsor supplies.
8. Promote the club and enroll families
Effective outreach combines online and offline tactics:
- Create a simple website or Facebook page with photos of sample activities.
- Distribute flyers at primary schools, libraries, and pediatric clinics.
- Host an open‑house evening where parents can meet staff and see the space.
Set up a clear enrolment form that captures contact details, medical information, and consent for photos. Online tools like Google Forms work fine, but ensure data is stored securely.
9. Launch day and ongoing evaluation
On your first day, keep the schedule light and focus on building rapport. Have a quick “ice‑breaker” activity, introduce staff, and review safety rules.
After each session, jot down what went well and what needs tweaking. A monthly review meeting with volunteers helps you stay on track and adjust the program based on feedback.
Ready to open a kids club in your neighbourhood? Follow these steps, stay flexible, and remember that the heart of any club is a safe, fun environment where children feel valued.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a licence to run a kids club?
A specific licence isn’t required, but you must hold a valid Working with Children Check for every adult, register an ABN, and meet local council health‑and‑safety standards.
How many children can I safely supervise?
The common ratio is one adult per eight to ten children for active settings, and one per twelve to fifteen for quieter activities. Adjust based on the age and the nature of the program.
What are good sources of funding?
Look at local council community grants, Queensland Department of Education after‑school funding, small business sponsorships, and parental fees. Many clubs start with a modest fee of $15‑$20 per week to cover basics.
How do I handle emergencies?
Keep a first‑aid kit, maintain an up‑to‑date emergency contact list, and train all volunteers in basic CPR. Write an emergency‑response plan and rehearse it quarterly.
Can I run the club from my home?
It’s possible if you meet zoning laws, have sufficient space, and can demonstrate safe supervision. Home‑based clubs often face stricter insurance requirements, so check with your insurer first.