Academic achievement and social skills are both enhanced by quality after school programs for children of school age. These programs can extend learning without extending the formal school day.
Many children, particularly those who have not experienced success in traditional classrooms, succeed with the opportunities for learning that are an integral part of quality after school programs. Some of the outcomes reported are, improved school attendance, better homework completion, better test scores, better grades, an interest in recreational reading, along with better peer relations, conflict resolution skills and cooperation.
Quality after school programs give children additional time and opportunity to engage in hands-on enrichment activities in reading, science, math, art, drama, and specific "safety" topics such as conflict resolution and drug abuse prevention. Most programs offer homework assistance or time for students to complete homework assignments with necessary supplies available. Some programs offer specific tutoring or lessons in subjects like languages, music, dance, computer technology, and martial arts. Most programs provide supervised physical activity with instruction on good sportsmanship and healthy snacks or even dinners.
Children involved in after school programs have substantially more time to interact with others and less time alone or watching television. The chance to talk with and learn from caring adults and children of varying ages provides additional role models and support for positive behavior.
For schools, working collaboratively with after school providers can reap many benefits. Academic improvement in specific areas of study can be achieved by more closely connecting the curricula of the school and the after school program. Communication and partnership between school personnel and after school program staff can provide more time and opportunities to reinforce, enrich and engage children in nearly any subject. It can be one of the most cost effective ways to support children's academics, social skills, and general health and safety. The range of involvement for school personnel is very broad. Some schools choose to completely own the program; employ the staff, provide the equipment and the necessary administrative support; while others outsource the program almost completely and provide only the space. All partnerships need clear expectations and communication. Children will benefit most from partnerships that are well defined, mutually supportive and bring together different opportunities and learning experiences. |
