Picture this: the school bell rings, and a tidal wave of backpacks and excited kids burst through the classroom doors. They’ve been cooped up all day, and now they’re ready to let loose!
What adventures await them after school? How about building a skyscraper out of blocks, laughing until your sides hurt with friends, or running so fast you feel like a superhero on the playground?
A lot of kids — 7.6 million, according to the Afterschool Alliance — are home alone after school and miss out on these experiences. Afterschool programs provide a safe, nurturing, and mentally stimulating environment where kids can learn and grow, which is especially helpful for working parents. These programs are invaluable for both children and families.
Why should you enroll your child in an afterschool program?
Social Development: Afterschool programs are awesome spots where kids can find their tribe, make new friends, and boost their confidence and independence while their parents are busy at work. Plus, they get to experience all sorts of different social situations, helping them grow into well-rounded superstars!
Safety: Kids get to learn and play in a safe, nurturing environment, watched over by enthusiastic youth leaders who are pros in childcare and First Aid/CPR. These programs are licensed and regularly checked by the Department of Family Protective Services, so parents can relax knowing their little ones are in good hands.
Mental and Physical Engagement: Afterschool activities are packed with fun! From arts and crafts to sports, games, social-emotional learning, literacy, homework help, STEM projects, and more, there’s always something exciting to do. These activities help kids sharpen their critical thinking, communication, math, and reading skills while having a blast!
Guess what? Other benefits that families attending Greater Austin Y afterschool programs can take advantage of are an awesome financial assistance program for families in need, and a 30% discount off a two-adult family membership rate at their local Greater Austin Y branch (find out more here).
Celebrate Afterschool Programs!
On October 24th Extend-A-Care YMCA afterschool programs are joining afterschool programs across the country to celebrate the 25th annual Lights On Afterschool— the only national celebration of afterschool programs and their important role in the lives of children, families, and communities. We will be doing special activities to celebrate that day and show gratitude for everyone who comes together to make our afterschool programs successful. Our EAC Y families are invited to hang out, participate, and celebrate!
