Youth centers
Reykjavík has many youth centers. They operate in primary school buildings or separate facilities. Opening hours mostly follow the primary school calendar. During summer, they focus on group activities with specially announced hours.
Youth centers in Reykjavík
Youth centers offer constructive recreational activities for 10-16 year olds. They focus on reaching adolescents needing social support and offering diverse activities. Activities include clubs, targeted group work, open sessions, and temporary projects. Opening hours are available on each youth center's website.
Specialized recreational activities
Four youth centers offer specialized activities for disabled children and adolescents: Askja, Hellirinn, Hofið, and Höllin. It is open after the school day ends, or from 1:40-4:30 p.m., every weekday. During school breaks, hours are 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m., though the center is closed during winter breaks. Apply for specialized recreational activities on the Vala registration website.
Youth democracy
Youth centers operate on youth democracy principles to ensure children and adolescents influence activities. Youth democracy is framed by national laws, City decisions, and youth center budgets.
To ensure consultation with children and adolescents, councils and committees are democratically elected.
They also create open forums for interested parties to participate and for individuals or groups to pursue their ideas from start to finish.