After School

"After School" refers to the periods of time children (generally kindergarten through adolescent years) spend with adults and other children in group settings exclusive of their regular school day. You may see other terms used such as “before- and after-school," "out-of-school time," "school-age," or “latch-key” programs.  

After school programs vary in their schedules; with some programs offered only during the school calendar, while others extend throughout holidays, vacation and summer time.  They also vary in content; some more academic with tutoring available, some recreational only, some a mixture of hands-on play that supports school learning.  They vary as to location (schools, churches, child care centers, home providers, camp sites) and they vary in the fees for the service; based on length of program, type of program, public program, or private program.  

We know that quality after school programs are critical for working parents, who need the reassurance that their children are in a safe, nurturing environment while they work.  On these pages, you will find information especially for parents about the different types of after school programs available and tips to help you choose.  Providers of after school programs will find up-to-date information about professional development and news from the field.  We hope you will visit often as your needs grow and change.

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     Professional Development
     Adolescent Programs
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     Summer Programs

After School Articles
November After School News


October After School News


Learn More
Demand for Ohio's Afterschool Programs Exceeds Supply by More Than 240,000 Spaces

09.20.2006  -  Read Full Report and Executive Summary of OAN's Gap Analysis.



Professional Development

July - September 2009 Regional Coursebook
The July - September 2009 Regional Coursebook is now available online.

T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood Ohio
Scholarships can support professional development.

News and Information

Play is Disappearing
Three new studies emphasize the importance of play.

Fingerprint Background Checks Electronically Completed at Action for Children
New in 2009, State of Ohio BCI&I checks and FBI checks are now available at Action for Children.

Top Ten Tips for Parents Choosing Child Care
New information to support parents in choosing child care.

Upcoming T.A.P.P Schedule
Current parenting classes and workshops being offered by Action for Children in Franklin and Delaware counties.

Top Ten Things Family Child Care Providers in Ohio Will Want to Know
New information about major initiatives, proposed regulation, and current developments in incentives and supports:

Learn More . . .

Summer 2009 Newsletter
Download a copy of Action for Children's newsletter, The Source, for news about child care and early learning.

Step Up To Quality
Information for providers and parents about Ohio's voluntary three-star quality rating system.

Demand for Ohio's Afterschool Programs Exceeds Supply by More Than 240,000 Spaces
Read Full Report and Executive Summary of OAN's Gap Analysis.

Ohio's After School Initiative
Learn about Ohio's After School Initiative and how to contact an After School Specialist at Action to assist you with your program.

Principals Principles
What are the benefits of after-school care at a child's school?