Different Types of After School ProgramsWhat to Look For

Each school year thousands of working parents are faced with the same decision. What types of after school programs are available for their child(ren)? If they have been at this for awhile and have found a safe, affordable local program that both they and their child(ren) are happy with, the best thing is to stick with it. However, each year children are beginning elementary schools for the first time, never having been in any of the many types of after school programs that there are, and will be in need of a safe place to be until the parent’s work day is finished. Best case scenario is a local daycare facility that is certified and structured, and offers games and learning activities that will fill the time that the children spend there. Being able to use their imaginations and creativity are key.

No matter what town or city a working parent lives in, there are bound to be many different types of after school programs to choose from. Parents are usually welcome to visit a facility before making their decision in order to interview the child care provider. Children can be brought along to the interview so that they can see first hand what types of activities, toys, and even classes are available at the particular daycare. Early childhood learning is extremely important to a child care provider’s training, as preschoolers and elementary school children so quickly absorb what they are taught, and especially remember what they learn in a fun, playful atmosphere.

Statistics show that children are now spending in excess of seven hours every day looking at some type of screen, whether it be a computer, a television, or a videogame screen. It is essential that children be able to create and express themselves by participating in other activities that will allow their concentration and their imaginations to spread their wings and fly. Only one in five homes are situated near some kind of park or playground area where children can go to spend time playing outside and getting their exercise. The same holds true for homes located close to a recreation center or a gym. If it is possible for a parent or a responsible adult to be available during after school hours to provide transportation, there are many places where gymnastics classes for kids are available at least five days a week.

According to studies done involving day camps in 2011, 90.7% of them reported that the most important issues to focus on were participation in physical activity, and a healthy diet. Although the study was conducted with day camps, the same is true for year round daycare facilities and all types of after school programs. Anyplace where children, or even adults, go to spend time in a recreational atmosphere. The bottom line concerning after school programs, daycare facilities, and camps is that parents want to be sure their children are happy. Right up there with the children’s happiness should be safety, fun activities, and good nutrition.