For working parents the school year presents a part time job in the realm of transportation. Because most schools start early in the day, mornings remain negotiable and easier to handle; however, leaving work mid-afternoon doesn't always fit into a boss' idea of what an afternoon should look like at the workplace. The options seem few, and none seem ideal, as most parents would prefer to be home with their children, helping with homework and enjoying an after school/after work snack. So, should a child ride a bus, or walk home to become a latchkey kid, or should they sign up for the after school latchkey program, and hang out on campus for 2-3 more hours?
After School Programs
Let's paint this picture accurately. You drop your youngster(s) off at school, head off to work, school ends for the day and then your kid stays at school longer. While there are benefits to after school programs sponsored by the school, the question has to be posed: Is my child at school too much?
As mentioned, there are benefits to sticking around the school yard once classes release. For starters, kids will be able to really work their social muscles in an accommodating environment, as well as complete any homework they were assigned during the day. If you live in a climate that offers plenty of sunshine, they'll also be able to spend a lot of the after school activity time outdoors, which is a great option. Unfortunately, there are only a few states in this great nation that offer such an opportunity.
What it boils down to is the happiness of the child in the program. Do they enjoy the program, or is it obvious to them that they are spending as much or more time at school than they are anywhere else?
After School Alternatives
After school opportunities will depend greatly on the age of the child or children. In most cities there are options such as YMCA after school programs and Boys and Girls Club chapters offering fun activities and curricula for different ages. Some kids are of the age where an organized sport serves to challenge the mind and body, as well as buying parents a couple extra hours of time before playing taxi driver.
These options generally offer plenty of time to their enrolled students for homework before moving on to fun physical and social activities. That reason alone makes such a choice one that should probably be discussed with the child.
Positive Adventures, LLC.
Positive Adventures, LLC. offers a variety of skills-building programs for kids. These programs allow kids to learn outside of the normal school environment, in a situation that is fun and allows them to get physical exercise and exercise their social muscles as well. Positive Adventures, LLC. can be a great alternative to traditional after school programs.
Ultimately, each after school scenario will be unique to the child's and the parents' needs and desires. It is best to have children in a social environment where they can continue to interact with their peers, developing communication skills and where ultimately, they are happy. Keeping the lines of communication, as well as a few options, open, will help to ensure that the after school program is a worthwhile investment.
