What To Look For in an Afterschool Program

If you're one of the many parents who has a full-time job, you're probably familiar with the stress of juggling your work schedule with your child's school schedule. For families in this situation, afterschool programs like Siegel JCC's KidsPlace program provide a place for kids to spend the afternoon hours until their parents are able to pick them up. 

However, research has shown that the benefits of afterschool programs extend beyond just providing childcare and giving kids a safe place to hang out. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the right afterschool program can "support student academic achievement and may play a role in reducing health disparities. Additionally, programs that follow evidence-based practices at improving personal and social skills of youth are linked with positive social behaviors." 

Of course, it goes without saying that it's important to choose the right afterschool program. Depending on their situation, kids can spend anywhere from 1-3 hours a day in afterschool programs. That adds up to 5-15 hours a week, or up to sixty hours a month. As a parent, it's important that you know that your child is not only safe, but also making the most of that time. 

How To Choose an Afterschool Program

The best afterschool program for your child will depend in large part on your family's circumstances, including finances, location, and schedule. However, you'll also want to take into account the following questions when considering your afterschool childcare options:

• Does the program offer academic support? If your child is old enough to have homework, it's a good idea to look for a program that will encourage them to do their homework (they might be too tired when they eventually get home) through dedicated homework time and help with schoolwork. Even if homework isn't a priority, afterschool activities that help reinforce or build on school learning can help your child stay on top of their academic game.
  
  
• Do they prioritize healthy options? No parent likes picking up a kid who is bouncing off the walls after being cooped up all day, nor one that has just crashed after their sugar high has worn off. Given that kids will likely spend a substantial amount of time at their afterschool program, it's important that the program's food and activity options are in line with your health goals at home. In particular, be sure to ask about healthy snack options and adequate time and space for exercise.
  
  
• Do they promote healthy social relationships? One of the most important aspects of afterschool programs is that they give kids a chance to interact with one another in an environment that is less structured than school. Ideally, you want to choose a program that provides plenty of opportunities for kids to develop friendships with one another.
  
  
• Is the program aligned with your family's values? Ideally, your child's afterschool program should uphold the same values and morals that your family adheres to at home, such as respect, integrity, and regard for cultural diversity (to name just a few common ones). Consider asking how these principles are integrated into daily programming, and how staff members address disciplinary issues when they arise. 

Siegel JCC's KidsPlace Program Offers Something for Everyone

KidsPlace is a truly unique afterschool program in the Wilmington area. The program's offerings include a diverse variety of activities (such as outdoor recreation, free play, nature outings, arts and crafts, games, social time, swimming, and more) as well as homework time, all of which are designed to support kids physically, socially, and academically. The program is open to K-6 children of all backgrounds, faiths, and ethnicities. 

The KidsPlace team understands the importance of making afterschool care as seamless and convenient as possible. To that end, we offer transportation from select schools. Moreover, KidsPlace makes communication easy by utilizing Tadpoles, an app that allows parents to access information, photos, and notes about their children in addition to sharing drop-off and/or pick-up information. 

At KidsPlace, our goal is to make your child feel at home. Contact us today at BeckyStahl@siegeljcc.org to schedule a tour!

The J is a vibrant, inclusive community center with offerings for members of all ages, backgrounds, and faiths. Members enjoy access to our well-equipped fitness center, indoor and outdoor pools, and group exercise classes, while children and teens benefit from a variety of programs from preschool and early childhood care to after-school care and summer camp. Whatever you're looking for, we've got something for you. Contact us today to discuss joining with a membership, or consider donating to support our programs!