Find the Right Fit for Your Child's After School Program

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For many households across the country, having two parents working has become not only the norm, but a necessity. This trend has resulted in after school programs growing more and more important as the years go on.

Recognizing that, the National Afterschool Association (NAA) has identified several things parents should look for in an afterschool program to ensure kids will be well cared for and enjoy their time once the final school bell of the day rings.

Staff

The staff is very important when finding the right fit for your child's after school program. One of the things parents must observe is the staff's interaction with children. Before deciding on a specific program, visit each of those your are considering on a typical day to witness how the staff interacts with kids. The NAA suggests looking for specific things regarding the staff's interaction, including whether or not children are treated with respect and allowed to voice their concerns or opinions; how well the staff knows the children in the program, including their interests and personalities; and the type of atmosphere the staff fosters for children, be it positive or negative.

Layout

The layout of an after school facility is an important consideration for parents as well. According to the NAA, a good facility will have plenty of open space for activities as well as a quiet area that allows kids to do their homework in peace.

The layout outside of the facility is something to consider as well. Kids need to exercise, and parents will want their kids to have ample outdoor space to play after a long day at school. Play equipment should be available, and that equipment should be new and not the product of neglect.

Activities

While structure is important for kids, it's also important for kids to experience variety. When looking at a given facility, the NAA suggests looking at the program's schedule of activities. A variety of available activities will lessen the likelihood of kids growing bored with a given program.

In addition, activities should be stimulating. Simply watching TV should not be acceptable. Rather, activities should be well suited to children's interests and age-appropriate.

Miscellaneous

Other things need to be considered as well before parents can make a final decision on an after school program. One of those things is nutrition. Most after school programs will have snacks for kids. Are these snacks healthy? Is the staff willing to alter their snack items if parents object?

Another thing to factor in is the structure of the facility. An older building, for instance, might not be as safe, and it might also not have adequate ventilation, heating or light. Kids are typically more susceptible to illness than adults, so these are important considerations not to be taken lightly.

To learn more about after school programs, visit the NAA Web site at www.naaweb.yourmembership.com.