Afterschool programs invest time in the personal growth and development of your child by engaging them in meaningful activities. The trick is finding a program that will fit the needs of your child and the family budget!
Help with Childcare
Afterschool programs may be a bit hidden due a partnership with another program that is larger. The Afterschool Alliance suggests that parents try looking at community centers, settlement houses, and community learning centers, full-service schools, museums and libraries. Childcare facilities with afterschool programs within them may be categorized as an “Extended Learning Center” or “Supplemental Educational Service”. Thinking outside the box will lead you in checking into some of the art councils within your community or the local youth employment programs.
The federal government has an active database for local youth afterschool programs, all you have to do is put your zip code in. School districts in Houston have a lot of resources on afterschool programming, be sure to ask the principals, counselors, and teachers about 21st Century Community Learning Centers program or visit their website or this strong resource that provides help Child Care Aware. KidSource Online by Wendy Schwartz has an awesome guide for choosing an afterschool program, the tips below came from her article.
Childcare Facility Questions
- Is the afterschool program in a safe and clean environment?
- Is there enough space for activities and quiet time?
- Are the rest rooms adequate?
- Are nutritional snacks or meals provided?
- Do the activities look exciting and challenging?
- Are they age-appropriate?
- Are the participants having fun as well as learning?
- Can children come before school and on holidays as well as in the afternoon?
- Is there an extra fee for that?
- Is there a late fee if you must pick up your children after the program is over?
- Can children attend only a few times a week instead of every day?
- Are there extra fees for trips, personal tutoring, and lessons?
Hi Lyra:
ReplyDeleteWow, how things continue to change as time goes on. I just think back to my childhood where my parents top priority was and continues to be education, which began with my grandparents. So, I am not a stranger to after school programs, private tutoring, summer programs, weekend courses at local junior colleges and etc. And, I must say, my educational foundation continues to play a major roll in my life. Therefore, I agree with your recommendations of investing in the educational futures of today's youth.