How to Choose Afterschool Care
One of the biggest challenges for many working parents is navigating the typical school schedule. Finding appropriate activities for your children while you're still finishing your workday can seem daunting, but it can also create an opportunity. High-quality afterschool programs give your child a chance to grow socially, academically, emotionally, and physically. Plus, you'll feel more comfortable knowing that your child is in a safe, engaging environment.
Here are some tips for finding the right afterschool program below:
Talk to Friends and Family
Like with any other search for child care, recommendations from friends and family can often be your best resources. You may also want to consider talking to the parents of your child's closest friends, especially since their children may share similar interests with yours.
Look at Their Qualifications
Once you've complied a list of suitable afterschool programs from friends and family, check to see if those programs are licensed. You may also want to see if they're working toward accreditation, for that means they are interested in voluntarily educating staff and in making other improvements that continuously raise the quality of the program.
Visit and Take a Good Look Around
Once you've narrowed your list of potential afterschool programs for your child, make an appointment to visit the facility and to meet with the staff. When you're there, pay close attention to all the details and don't hesitate to ask questions.
Here are a few questions to keep in mind during your visit:
- Do both the staff and the children seem happy to be there?
- Does the program staff members seem involved and engaged?
- Is the physical space a clean, comfortable, and safe environment?
- Is the program aware of national quality standards?
- Are parents involved, either through a board or a council?
- Is the staff trained in CPR and first aid?
- Does the staff have opportunity for training and education?
If you aren't happy with any of your observations, or if the staff seems reluctant to answer any of your questions, move on.
Stay Committed and Involved
Once you've found a quality afterschool program for your child, that shouldn't be the end of your research. Stay involved in the program as long as your child is enrolled. Volunteer if you're able, check in with your child often, and communicate with the staff every time you come to pick up your child.
Interested in finding child care for a younger child? Take a look at our Consider Your Child care Options page to get started.