After-School Programming
Most people would say that they are concerned about children during the after
school hours in regards to supervision and safety. Research and those working
with at-risk children would suggest that after school hours are a crucial time
when children tend to participate in behaviors that are more risky. Community
members want to know there is a safe place for children and teens to go after
school and that programs are critical.
Schools are beginning to answer those concerns by offering before and after
school childcare as well as programs after school that are geared toward the
teen population. Some schools have qualified and receive 21st Century grants
to help provide a safe and learning environment while others rely on fees and
charges to cover the costs. Some programs are funded through other sources such
as grants, partnerships with other organizations and the like.
After school programs can be geared toward a variety of ages and through a variety
of activities. Some programs provide additional academic time for tutoring,
homework, and general academic preparation or remedial services. Other programs
provide recreational, enrichment, and learning opportunities such as sports,
arts/crafts, music, drama, and general "play". Fieldtrips of both
recreational and educational natures can often be found in after school programs
as well. Offerings depend upon the funding source, the parents' and childrens'
needs and wants, and the agency providing services.
In addition to school districts providing after school programming, some agencies
that may also provide programming include city parks and recreation departments,
YMCAs, YWCAs, Boys and Girls Clubs, churches, and other such agencies. Private
day cares often also offer childcare during the before and after school hours
for school-aged children.
For more information on after school programming, check out the following sites:
National 4-H Afterschool
After School Alliance
Iowa Parks and Recreation Association
YWCA