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Choosing After School Care

Children in quality afterschool programs tend to do better academically in school and have fewer problems with delinquent behavior, alcohol and drugs. Effective afterschool programs offer a different environment from the regular school day and differ significantly from child care services for younger children. To find the afterschool program that is right for you and your child:

• Ask family members, friends and school personnel for recommendations.
• Call the programs and ask about availability, hours and fees.
• Visit the programs and interview staff.

Look for these features in a quality afterschool program:

Well-trained staff that:

• Have all been cleared through a Level II background screening and drug test.
• Are certified in CPR and First Aid.
• Engage children and youth in positive and respectful ways through listening, acceptance and appreciation while adhering to clear limits and consistent rules.
• A system for documenting the arrival and departure of all children and youth.
• Written policies and procedures for transporting children and youth safely, if applicable.
• Adequate adult supervision of children and youth at all times.
• Indoor and outdoor activities adapted to suit children of varying ages.
• A daily schedule that is flexible, allowing children and youth to transition smoothly from one activity to another.
• Availability of homework help, tutoring, and other engaged-learning activities from communication with local teachers or school administrators.
• Drinking water is available at all times and healthy snack options are offered.
• Resources, such as a library, sports equipment and enough art, craft and reading materials to keep children interested.
• Activities that develop personal and interpersonal social skills and promote respect for cultural diversity. For adolescents, activities that foster an appropriate sense of independence based on their level of maturity.
• For a comprehensive list of standards for quality afterschool programs download the Florida Afterschool Network’s brochure: http://myfan.org/downloads/FAN%20Brochure

Also ask:

• Can children come before school and on holidays as well as in the afternoon? Is there an extra fee for that? Is there a late fee if you must pick up your children after the program is over?
• Can children attend only a few times a week instead of every day—to accommodate parents’ schedules, to save on costs, or to allow for partial sibling care?
• What are the costs? Are there extra fees for trips, personal tutoring and lessons?
• Are there opportunities for family involvement?

For more tips, contact the Florida Afterschool Network at (850) 222-1340 or www.myfan.org.

Your children can help you evaluate their after-school care. Remember to talk with your child about the program and each day’s activities.