1. Go Through Your Child's School
If you're searching for an after-school program, ask at your child's school. Many schools offer on-site programs, which may include homework assistance, craft activities, outdoor play time, sports training and computer classes. Often, these programs are free to children enrolled within the school system, or the fees may be determined according to family income. The benefit of these programs is that you won't need to pick up your children after school and shuttle them to their activity. The drawback is that kids may tire of staying in their school so long.
2. Take Advantage of Community Resources
Your community may have numerous after-school programs sponsored by organizations such as the Boys and Girls Club of America, the YMCA and 4-H. All of these organizations have locations throughout the U.S. and offer inexpensive after-school programs for kids of all ages. Visit their websites for more information. Depending on where you live, there may also be local organizations that offered quality after-school programs. Your child's school is a good resource for finding out what is offered locally, as most organizations publicize their programs first with schools.
3. Complement Your Child's Interests
While many programs simply provide a safe environment in which children can wait for their parents to pick them up, some address different interests. Sports lessons and teams, art classes and music instruction are a few of the activities in which you can enroll your child. When choosing which are best, engage your child in the decision. Visit the program while it is in session to see how it runs, whether the kids are enjoying themselves and whether it's a safe environment. Observe the staff in action and get references.
4. Choose Counterintuitive Activities
When choosing an after-school program, consider thinking outside the box. Extracurricular activities provide an opportunity for children to explore new interests. For example, shy, introverted children might find great value in a drama program. Likewise, those who have a hard time concentrating and are hyperactive can be taught to center and direct their energies in a positive way through martial arts. Think of the program as a learning opportunity rather than just a babysitter.
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