As your child gets older, you may be wondering if afterschool care makes sense for your family. You might think, “my child is old enough to stay home alone, why would I enroll them in an afterschool program?” An afterschool program is not just a place for your child to hang out; it is a time for them to learn, play, socialize, and grow in a safe space while you work. As you think over your options for the upcoming school year, here are a few benefits for you to keep in mind.
1. Afterschool care provides safety and supervision
2. Afterschool care helps build a consistent and predictable routine
Children thrive on routines. Knowing what to expect each afternoon helps them feel confident, secure, and ready to participate. From familiar teachers to consistent schedules and trusted friends, afterschool care creates a routine that helps children transition smoothly from the school day into an enjoyable afternoon.
3. Afterschool care supports learning and academic growth
Learning does not have to end when school lets out. Afterschool programs often include games, activities, and projects that will help your child practice concepts they learned in school in a fun way. Our afterschool curriculum, Young Achiever’s Club, focuses on turning academic concepts into interactive games to get children excited to learn! Many of our afterschool programs include dedicated time for homework, giving children a chance to get a head start before heading home.
4. Afterschool care builds independence and self-help skills
Afterschool care can help promote personal growth skills that last well into adulthood. Children are given the opportunity to develop skills that will help with time management, self-motivation, and responsibility. Some of these opportunities include:
- Serving themselves snack
- Choosing their activities for the afternoon
- Planning out their time in the classroom
5. Afterschool care sparks imagination and creativity
A new environment and new friends opens up all kinds of opportunities for creativity. Kids are encouraged to grow their social skills by working and playing with peers with different thoughts and abilities, which will also help them think more creatively! In our afterschool curriculum, Young Achiever’s Club, children are encouraged to play, explore, and create with their friends through independent play, or teacher-led projects.
