Finding Before & Afterschool Care
07/20/23
Is your child ready for the upcoming school year? As you prepare for the exciting days ahead, it’s time to start thinking about before and afterschool care! The clock is ticking, and now is the perfect moment to explore the many wonderful options available for your child.
Whether you’re a working parent or simply in need of some extra support, finding reliable and engaging care options is crucial for your child’s well-being and your peace of mind. It’s important to start your search early though – before and afterschool care slots are limited, and transportation options fill up quickly. Don’t wait until the last minute; secure your child’s spot and peace of mind now!
In this guide, we’ll explore the benefits of before and afterschool care and what to consider when making this decision for your family.
Why choose a before or afterschool program?
Before and afterschool programs are essential for various reasons and can transform the hours when your child isn’t in school into productive learning time. In addition to keeping children safe outside of school hours, before and afterschool programs often offer valuable homework help and support to nurture your child’s learning journey. These programs can also provide an opportunity to assist those children who learn and think differently by offering individualized support which can increase academic performance.
Apart from academics, before and afterschool care also facilitate the development of new interests and social skills as children connect with their peers in a new setting. Plus, these programs are just plain fun, allowing children to burn off excess energy or simply relax with their friends.
4 questions to ask when choosing a program…
Check if the program offers transportation to and from your child’s school. This thoughtful service ensures your child’s safety and saves you valuable time during your busy day.
Make sure that the program’s operating hours align with your schedule. This will give you the flexibility you need while also providing your child with the care and supervision they require.
Take into consideration the kinds of activities and support offered, such as homework help. Look for programs that offer homework assistance and engaging activities that match your child’s interests. A well-rounded program will keep your child intellectually stimulated and happy, plus homework help is a valuable perk that promotes academic growth and confidence.
If you have more than one child, opt for a provider that can accommodate all of them. Having siblings in the same program fosters a sense of togetherness and will make your life much simpler!
If before or afterschool care isn’t an option, or your child is approaching the age where they might be ready to stay home alone, check out Action for Children’s Home Alone Guide. This resource will help you make an informed decision and ensure your child’s safety and well-being.
Before making your decision, you can also check out our 5C Checklist (available in English and Spanish), a valuable tool that will guide you through the process of choosing the right child care program for children of any age.
In case you missed it…
Ohio families can take advantage of the Ohio Afterschool Child Enrichment (ACE) Educational Savings Account program. Qualifying families can receive a $1,000 credit per child, which can be used to pay for various educational activities, including before- or after-school programs. The ACE application window for the 2023-2024 school year opens on July 17, 2023. Explore the Ohio Ace Education Marketplace to find qualifying options in your area. For more information and to apply, visit https://www.aceohio.org/.
The bottom line…
Choosing the perfect before and afterschool care for your child is an exciting journey. It’s an opportunity to provide them with enriching experiences, a safe space, and a chance to make lasting friendships. As you explore the fantastic options available, remember that your child’s happiness and well-being are at the heart of this decision. Embrace the adventure, and let the magic of before and afterschool care unfold!
If you’re ready to take the guesswork out of finding and paying for child care, make Action for Children your first call! Our dedicated team works with families to locate full-time & part-time care options, providing expert guidance, support, and resources throughout the process. To learn more about our services, call 614-224-0222 today!
Author: Sara Krugman, Information & Referral Program Coordinator at Action for Children
Action for Children is the local child care resource and referral agency for central Ohio, and is committed to assuring quality early learning experiences for all children. Our services focus on transforming the lives of children by supporting the everyday heroes who most influence our children’s early growth; caregivers, educators, parents, and guardians. Learn More.