successful after school homework programs

• About the Project

• Well-Designed Homework Time as a Quality-Building Aid in Afterschool

Natalie Lucas

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Jennifer Kobrin

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If any children are peering over your shoulder as you read these lines, hide the next sentence from them. 


The evidence that homework aids student achievement is inconclusive (Center for Public Education, 2007). 


Yet, for many students, not completing homework on time, or completing it incorrectly, can leave them at a serious disadvantage as they try to progress successfully through school. It is also important to note that well-designed homework, instead of just “throwing worksheets at students,” is more likely to have merit and can be a positive connection between school and afterschool programs. Combining well-designed homework with other academic enrichment activities in afterschool can provide a well-rounded package of expanded learning opportunities that contribute to school success and positive youth development.


Homework has maintained a role as a traditional component of the education system over many generations, although it has not been totally proven to be effective as a tool for improving students’ learning. A battle waged in recent decades over the value of homework did not come to a definitive conclusion, leaving both proponents and opponents with research they can cite to support either side of the debate. 1  It appears that the presence of homework serves more to forestall a decline in performance (Morrison, Storino, Robertson, Weissglass, & Dondero, 2000) rather than to advance achievement; however, making homework completion just one element of a broader, comprehensive afterschool program enhances its value.


Despite the conflicted research base, school policies continue to mandate and teachers continue to assign homework. This reality is where afterschool programs must position themselves, regardless of any personal opinions on homework. The general charge of an afterschool program is to help students succeed in school; and if homework is required by the school, then many afterschool programs see homework support as part of that charge. Going a step further is to encourage staff buy-in and enthusiasm for a program culture that embraces homework time as useful and important, rather than a bore and a chore for all involved. 


This commitment to productive homework time can be bolstered by a program’s recognition that well-designed homework, as part of a broader afterschool initiative, not only can provide benefits to youth but also serve to reinforce some of the desired—and often required—yet hard-to-come-by program goals: (a) homework is a natural link between afterschool and school, (b) homework is a promising bridge between afterschool and families, (c) homework supports principles of youth development that are central to afterschool programs, and (d) homework help can be a hook to engage students in expanded learning and broader opportunities. 


Supporting the School Day and Connecting With Teachers


Homework serves as a natural point of connection between school-day staff and afterschool staff, whose roles are parallel yet often isolated. Many school-day teachers do not ask for help from afterschool, or even do not picture the potential for afterschool programming to aid in school-day goals. The practitioner who takes the first step to building relationships with school-day staff can demonstrate that program practices, such as homework support or tutoring, are working toward the same outcomes the school-day teachers hope to achieve. 


Once this common understanding has been reached, the relationship can be maintained through intentional and sustained communication. A regular schedule of check-ins via phone or e-mail or in person should be established. Tools such as a homework contract or a homework completion tracking document allow both sides to stay up-to-date without adding additional strain on job responsibilities. By using such tools and scheduling regular check-ins, afterschool staff can more readily ask school-day teachers for help with students’ more difficult assignments. In a time when 89% of students stress about homework (Met Life, 2007) this communication builds trust that makes students more confident in the program’s ability to be helpful and meet student needs. 


In rural Missouri, for example, the West Plains R-7 Before and After School Education program utilizes the regular school day homework planner to track student assignments and facilitate information sharing between afterschool staff and teachers. The planner includes space for both groups to sign and record relevant information each day. The program director also takes advantage of the school district’s data system to track student achievement, routinely meeting with teachers when students fall behind. This real-life example illustrates the kind of collaboration and mutual support that many afterschool programs have found to be a critical ingredient in boosting student achievement.


Opening up the avenues of communication between school and afterschool was the focus of a pilot project conducted by the University of Pittsburgh’s Office of Child Development during the 2010–2011 school year. This project, funded by the Heinz Endowments, was a partnership with Pittsburgh Public Schools and five local afterschool program providers. The partnership developed a set of communication strategies based on research that indicates that formal communication between teachers and afterschool providers supports quality homework time in the afterschool setting. 


Linking together on homework can even open the door to more substantive school-afterschool collaborations—one of the hallmarks of quality afterschool programs.


Easing the Pressure off Families


Students are not the only ones whose stress levels rise with homework; in today’s society, with more single parents and more dual-income families, the demands of home life leave little time for parents to offer homework help. Most parents want their children to do homework, and they see the importance of connecting with what their children are doing in school, but dinner time, chores, and leisure activities compete with homework time. An overload of homework also competes with sleep, which suffers as a result for students, not just their overtired parents (Dudley-Maring, 2003). 


By providing a structured and supportive space for homework time, afterschool programs can become an ally of busy parents. This program role again opens up an opportunity for communication, in this case with families. The tools mentioned above, such as the homework contract, can include families as participants, and informal conversations about homework can reassure parents that their children are completing assignments, indicate what is left to be done at home with bigger projects or additional assignments, and provide a sought-after link by proxy from the parent to the school day. Through this link, an afterschool program kindles homework’s role as a cornerstone to facilitating family-to-school communication as it contributes to parents’ understanding of what school expectations are and offers direction for how they can support their children (Perlman & Redding, 2011). 


For example, the East Allen Family Resource Center in New Haven, Indiana, requires all staff to speak with parents who come to pick up their students in the program and share information about their students’ progress with homework. “We really love the parents who choose to pick up their students from the school. It provides such a wonderful opportunity for parents to see what their child is doing, the environment that is provided for them, and have face-to-face time talking with staff,” notes the program director. To reach parents who may not be able to pick up their children in person, staff routinely make phone calls to students’ homes to discuss student achievement. 


In considering homework support as one component of a family involvement plan, an afterschool program is again making strides in the direction of program quality. 


Using Homework Time to Enhance Youth Development


Within the body of evidence that exists about homework, studies have shown that homework does play a role in building skills that equip young people to be more efficient and motivated students and prepare them for 21st century careers. By completing homework, students gain soft skills such as greater self-direction, self-discipline, organization, and more independent problem solving (Protheroe, 2009). 


In four charter high schools in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, such skills are coupled with homework time in deliberate lessons taught through “mini clinics” by Foundations, Inc.’s Prep Zone Plus afterschool program. Mini clinics are quick (lasting about 20 minutes), relevant, and engaging lessons that address a variety of study skills and life skills, from reading for meaning to budgeting to selecting colleges. For students who complete their homework early or need extra assistance with certain skills, the mini clinics provide a robust but palatable lesson. Students feel that they are getting more for their time and gaining skills that will be useful as they progress toward college, careers, and independent life. 


From its experience of operating homework-based afterschool programs over the past decade, Foundations has learned that a substantive way to improve homework time and other elements of afterschool is to listen to young people in afterschool settings and solicit and use feedback from school-day teachers, administrators, and parents. 


Going Beyond Homework


Quality afterschool programs, even homework-based ones, build out engaging learning opportunities that go beyond homework and offer value-added programming. Often after homework time ends, students attend their choice of enrichment clubs (for example, robotics, chess, art, music, cooking, service learning) to round out their afterschool experience. Research shows that afterschool programs with multifaceted programming are more likely to achieve the greatest academic gains (Pearson, Russell, & Reisner, 2007). 


Starting in 2011 and continuing through 2012, the Boys and Girls Clubs of Indianapolis has been working to go beyond homework and infuse academics into regular club programming. Through a grant from the Lilly Endowmentand a partnership with the Center for Afterschool and Expanded Learning at Foundations, Inc., Boys and Girls Clubs of Indianapolis has focused on creating a sustainable approach to academically-focused enrichment across seven sites. Staff receive ongoing training on topics such as planning hands-on activities linked to academic standards, project-based learning, STEM, and literacy in out-of-school time. In turn, staff are supported by leadership teams to implement meaningful enrichment activities into a range of existing programming, from art projects to basketball tournaments. 


The enrichment opportunities offered on top of homework support help students see how they can apply what they’re learning to real-life situations, build confidence through the mastery of new talents or completion of significant projects, and understand the connections between what they are doing now and their future possibilities. 


Conclusion and Recommendations


Relationships with the school day, connections to families, youth development practices, and using the attraction of completing homework to engage students in expanded learning and broader opportunities are enhanced with a positive approach to homework.


Below are a number of key recommendations to make homework a positive component of quality afterschool programs: 


• Set up systems for communication between afterschool instructors and school-day teachers that keep everyone up to date. Do the same with families.
• Create a physical environment that encourages homework completion—include quiet space with individual desks for assignments that require deep concentration, bigger tables for study groups to gather, couches for catching up on reading, and a resource area with reference materials.

• Build in opportunities for youth choice. Do some students study better when they can listen to music through headphones? Can students seek help from peers or adults? Can they choose which assignment they want to work on first?

• Keep homework time active, even when all the assignments are done. Offer short, self-directed activities such as brain teasers, board games, or activity centers that students can enjoy while still reinforcing some academic and 21st century skills . . . not just worksheets.

• Sometimes the best homework help is just directing students to the right resources they can employ to answer a tricky question. Refrain from giving them the answer; instead, empower them to find it on their own.

• Be aware of families’ homework preferences. Some families want their students to complete as much homework as possible in the afterschool program; others may want to work with their children on some assignments at home, too.

• Keep groups fluid, not static. Depending on the students, the assignments, and the day, change grouping arrangements frequently.
• Expand your own view of homework as a positive element of expanded learning. Remember that you are a role model, and students may adopt your attitude toward homework.


If afterschool programs—and their school partners—use these recommendations, dogs all across the country can experience fewer stomachaches from the proverbial eating of the homework.


Additional Resources 


SEDL Afterschool Training Toolkit – Homework 
 http://www.sedl.org/afterschool/toolkits/about_toolkits.html?tab=homework 


Homework Sharing Tool (You for Youth web portal)
 http://y4y.ed.gov/Content/Resources/DCID20110713104426.pdf 


TASC Resource Brief 
 https://www.century21me.org/staticme21/academ_achiev/Research%20on%20Hom... 


What Research Says About the Value of Homework: Research Review 
 http://www.centerforpubliceducation.org/Main-Menu/Instruction/What-resea... 


Homework Time, Afterschool Style
 Homework Time, Afterschool Style. (2009). Mt. Laurel, NJ: Foundations, Inc.


Homework Zone Program Pack ​
Homework Zone Program Pack. (2009). Mt. Laurel, NJ: Foundations, Inc.


• See, for example, Ramdass & Zimmerman (2011), Cooper, et. al. (2006), Marzano (2003), for research that supports the use of homework. For research that is critical of homework, see Kohn (2006), Bennett & Kalish (2006), and Kralovec & Buell (2000). ↩

References


Center for Public Education. (2007). Key lessons: What research says about the value of homework . Retrieved from http://www.centerforpubliceducation.org 


Morrison, G. M., Storino, M. H., Robertson, L. M., & Weissglass, T., & Dondero, A.. (2000). The protective function of after-school programming and parent education and support for students at risk for substance abuse. Evaluation and Program Planning , 23 , 365–371. 


MetLife, Inc. (2007). MetLife survey of the American teacher: The homework experience. A survey of students, teachers and parents . New York, NY: Author.


Dudley-Marling, C. (2003). How school troubles come home: The impact of homework on families of struggling learners. Current Issues in Education, 6( 4 ) . Retrieved from http://cie.asu.edu/volume6/number4/index.html . 


Perlman, C. L., & Redding, S. (2011). Handbook on effective implementation of School Improvement Grants . Lincoln, IL: Center on Innovation & Improvement. 


Protheroe, N. (2009) Good homework policy = Good teaching. Principal, 89 (1), 42–45. 


Pearson, L. M., Russell, C. A., & Reisner, E. R. (2007). Evaluation of OST programs for youth: Patterns of youth retention in OST programs, 2005–06 to 2006–07 . Washington, DC: Policy Studies Associates.

About the Compendium

• Introduction
• The Potential of Quality Afterschool and Summer Learning Programs and 21st Century Community Learning Centers for Supporting School Success
• Expanded Learning Opportunities are Key to Student Learning
• Supporting Mathematics Learning Outside the Regular School Day in Afterschool and Summers
• How Quality Afterschool Programs Help Motivate and Engage More Young People in Learning, Schooling, and Life
• The Potential of Career and College Readiness and Exploration in Afterschool Programs
• Using Afterschool and Summer Learning to Improve Literacy Skills
• Building a Culture of Attendance: Schools and Afterschool Programs Together Can and Should Make a Difference!
• A Proven Solution for Dropout Prevention: Expanded Learning Opportunities
• Building Mastery of the Common Core State Standards by Expanding Learning With Community Stakeholder Partnerships
• Providing Innovative Opportunities and Options for Credit Recovery Through Afterschool and Summer Learning Programs
• Achieving, Connecting, Thriving: Afterschool and Summer Learning in Collaboration With Schools
• Supporting English Language Learners in School and in Afterschool and Summers
• Providing Access to Training and Resources to Afterschool and Summer Learning Professionals to Promote Full and Meaningful Inclusion for All Children
• II. Expanding Skills and Horizons
• III. Recent Evidence of Impact
• IV. The Power of Community-School Partnerships in Expanding Learning
• V. Afterschool and Summer Programs as Catalysts for Engaging Families
• VI. A Growing Nationwide Infrastructure for Quality, Expansion and Partnerships
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Secrets of Successful Afterschool Programs

• Posted February 24, 2008
• By Amy Magin Wong

The United States is engaged in an ongoing, public discussion about how to best expand afterschool time and opportunities for children and youth, to support their learning and development across the day, throughout the year, and from kindergarten through high school. Debate continues about the range of academic, social, and other types of knowledge and skills that young people will need to succeed as workers, citizens, and family and community members in a global world.

To build the knowledge base, and to support efforts to improve quality in this field, the Harvard Family Research Project (HFRP) has developed and maintains an accessible national database of evaluations of hundreds of afterschool programs. In 2008, HFRP issued a review of these studies to address two fundamental questions: Does participation in after school programs make a difference, and if so, what conditions appear to be necessary to achieve positive results?

The verdict: a decade of research and evaluation studies confirms that children and youth who participate in afterschool programs can reap a host of positive benefits in a number of interrelated outcome areas — academic, social-emotional, prevention, and health and wellness. These are the skills that many suggest are necessary for youth to succeed in the 21st century global economy and world.

Academic performance

Participation in afterschool programs is influencing academic performance in a number of ways, including better attitudes toward school and higher educational aspirations; higher school attendance rates and lower tardiness rates; less disciplinary action, such as suspension; lower dropout rates; better performance in school, as measured by achievement test scores and grades; significant gains in academic achievement test scores; greater on-time promotion; improved homework completion; and deeper engagement in learning.

Dozens of studies of afterschool programs repeatedly underscore the powerful impact of supporting a range of positive learning outcomes, including academic achievement, by affording children and youth opportunities to practice new skills through hands-on, experiential learning in project-based after school programs. Another common thread among all of these studies is that successful programs focus not just on academic support, but also offer other enrichment activities. Thus, balancing academic support with a variety of structured, engaging, and enjoyable extracurricular activities appears to improve academic performance.

Social-emotional development

Many afterschool programs focus less on academics and more on improving young people’s social and developmental challenges, such as social skills, self-esteem and self-concept issues, initiative, and leadership skills. Research has shown that participation in these programs is associated with decreased behavioral problems, improved social and communication skills, better relationships with peers and teachers, increased self-confidence, self-esteem and self-efficiency, lower levels of depression and anxiety, development of initiative, and improved feelings and attitudes toward self and schoo l.

Crime, drug, and sex prevention

The hours from 3 to 6 p.m. are the peak time for juvenile crime and victimization, and the time period when teens ages 16-17 are most likely to be involved in a car crash. Also, youth left unsupervised for a certain number of hours per week are more likely to be sexually active, and at risk for sexually transmitted diseases. Participation in an afterschool programs gets children and youth off the streets, under supervision, and potentially prevents some risky behaviors. But beyond offering a safe haven, research and evaluation studies have demonstrated that the programs can have a positive effect on a range of prevention outcomes, such as avoidance of drug and alcohol use, decreases in delinquency and violent behavior, increased knowledge of safe sex, avoidance of sexual activity, and reduction in juvenile crime.

Promoting health and wellness

Afterschool programs can help tackle the growing problem of childhood obesity among our nation’s children and youth. The studies point to the programs’ potential power to promote the general health, fitness, and wellness of young people by keeping them active, fostering the importance of healthy behaviors, and providing healthy snacks. Students learn to make better food choices, and increase their physical activity, as well as their knowledge of nutrition and health practices. This leads to a reduction in body mass index, improved blood pressure, and improved body image.

Critical factors to achieve successful outcomes

Afterschool programs can promote positive learning and developmental outcomes, but some programs are not maximizing their potential. Research and evaluation point to three factors that are critical for creating constructive settings that can achieve these results with youth.

• Access to and sustained participation in programs Young people experience greater gains if they participate in afterschool programs with greater frequency and in a more sustained manner. They also benefit from programs tailored to their interests, needs, and schedules, as well as from those providing exposure to new ideas, challenges, and people.  
• Quality programming and staffing Developing programs intentionally, with a focus on promoting target outcomes through well-organized and engaging activities, is a critical component for achieving high quality afterschool settings. It entails having a clear vision and goals for the program from the start, as well as strong, directed leadership and sustained training and support to staff.

Also, youth benefit by developing positive relationships with the program’s staff, who in turn model good behavior, actively promote student mastery of skills or concepts in activities, listen attentively, provide feedback and guidance, and establish clear expectations for mature, respectful interactions with peers. Children who attend these well-supervised afterschool programs display better work habits, task persistence, social skills, pro-social behaviors, academic performance, and less aggressive behavior at the end of the school year.

• Strong partnerships High-quality programs effectively leverage partnerships with a variety of stakeholders, especially families, schools and communities.

Well-implemented, quality afterschool programs can support healthy learning and development when the key factors described above are addressed. They also demonstrate how complex it is to provide excellent, effective supports for youth and their families. As national conversations turn toward reframing the traditional school day and year, there remains much to be gleaned from 10 years of research and evaluation about what works to support student learning and success.

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Tips for an effective and successful afterschool program.

Study after study shows the improvement in children’s lives made by effective afterschool programs . In many communities, an afterschool program is the only chance for enrichment available. The value of providing homework assistance and opportunities to experience other activities cannot be overstated. A national evaluation found that 40 percent of students attending  21st Century Community Learning Center programs  improved their reading and math grades

If you are developing an afterschool program at a school or other local facility, you may be wondering what makes a good program and how you can make yours a success. If you are considering such a program, you already know why the program is essential. Let's take a look at what makes it successful.

The definition of an effective afterschool program

  There is no consensus about the definition or structure of an effective or successful program. However, there is some agreement about various elements that can go into creating one.

• Programs that take a developmental approach show a relationship between program attendance and improved school performance and behavior.
• Those programs with the most holistic approach also have academic benefits.
• Afterschool music and art enrichment programs for younger children help them develop concentration and other skills that improve academic performance.

It appears that programs following a strictly academic approach do not address all the needs of the students in attendance. An effective program considers the whole child, not just his or her scholastic achievement.

Read more about how to start an afterschool program .

The elements of a successful program

Most afterschool programs are expected to promote academic performance, and indeed, a good program will do so. Such programs improve children’s attitudes toward school and increase their attendance rates. They have fewer tardies, lower drop-out rates, and achieve higher test scores and grades.

However, as shown above, an effective program takes a holistic approach.

• A social-emotional development approach focuses on improving social skills, self-concept issues, initiative, and leadership skills. Results include better social and communication skills, improved relationships with peers and teachers, and increased self-sufficiency, self-esteem, and self-confidence. Depression and anxiety are reduced as are behavioral problems.
• Crime, drug, and sex prevention programs acknowledge that the hours between the end of school and the end of the parent’s workday are peak hours for juvenile crime and victimization. Participation in an afterschool program takes children and teens off the streets and places them in a safe environment where they can learn how to avoid negative outcomes.
• Programs promoting health and wellness work on reducing childhood obesity by modeling and teaching general health and fitness behaviors. These programs keep children active and teach better food choices, reducing their body mass index and blood pressure.

The neighborhood school is an essential part of the village helping to raise those children who have fewer resources. Afterschool programs in communities with more supports in place for children and teens are still a welcome addition to their overall health and social learning.

A study performed by Milbry McLaughlin, Ph.D., the David Jacks Professor of Education and Public Service at Stanford University, showed that a cohort of students maintained good grades, avoided drugs and crime, and was focused on the future, despite a problematic background. McLaughlin's research determined that these teens were self-selecting programs from the YMCA, sports programs, or local dance troupes, where they received the appropriate support, structure, and challenge.

Tips to achieve a successful afterschool program

The best model for an effective afterschool program has a youth development framework rather than a deficit-based or risk-behavior model. Like most youth, children and teens respond best to positive reinforcement and being told what they can do better than they react to being told what not to do.

Tip: The #1 rule is being fair at all times

Children and teens have a finely-honed sense of fairness. It only takes one perception of what they see as an “unfair” act to damage their trust in the adults of the program. Be as transparent as you can when explaining any exceptions to rules and why the rules are not being followed in any situation.

Safety tips

• Prepare detailed rules and game objectives, ensuring all participants understand the expectations of behavior.
• Develop necessary modifications for each activity to ensure safety and provide the ability for any participant to take part.
• Have plenty of space for the activity. Tag in a small room is not safe.
• Group children as equally as you can to level the playing field and keep from giving one team an overwhelming advantage.
• Use non-toxic art supplies.

Activity selection tips

• Choose games that foster friendship and collaboration over highly competitive games.
• Choose small group activities most of the time to create more opportunities for active participation.
• Allow participants to suggest new activities for the group.
• Ask for feedback about an activity at the end to measure engagement. Ask what worked, what didn’t work, and what everyone learned about themselves.
• For art activities, never use anything that creates a permanent mark or stain. The parents will thank you.

Participation encouragement tips

• Reduce the emphasis on winning.
• Encourage questions about the rules and how the activity is performed.
• Have pre-activity ice-breakers to foster relationships before the activity begins.
• Participate in the activity yourself to show interest and observe the group’s interaction.
• Encourage older participants to take leadership roles, model and encourage participation, and gather feedback.
• Allow children to decide whether and when to participate.
• Emphasize the value of trying something outside the participant’s comfort zone if there is hesitance.
• Engage children at every step of the activity to eliminate distractions during periods of waiting.

Communication tips

• Reward cooperative and polite behavior. Handle conflicts and negative behavior in a positive manner.
• When explaining a new activity, limit distractions from noise and use plain language. Demonstrate as you go.
• Provide opportunities for brief problem-solving activities the group must work toward together.
• Set realistic goals for each child and reinforce with positive communication.
• Post the daily schedule and provide reminders about transitions throughout the period to prepare everyone for the change.
• Model skills and behaviors you wish to see. Encourage older participants to be models, too.
• Do not single out participants for their actions in a negative way and praise everyone after the activity is complete.

Organizational tips  

• Reduce wait times during individual activities to mitigate anxiety from social comparisons.
• Work in small groups and divide the space into stations to make more effective use of time and materials.
• Develop flexible space with a variety of options for leisure activity so children can find a spot comfortable for them to decompress.
• Have the participants clean up after themselves to encourage responsibility.
• End activities at their peak to maintain interest and engagement. The activity will be all the more welcome the next time you offer it.

An effective and successful afterschool program engages the whole child or teen. It promotes health and wellness and social-emotional development as well as academics. The participants should feel included and respected, encouraged to self-advocate, and brought into the activity decision-making process when possible.

Online afterschool management software can help you track attendance and plan activities with calendar-based scheduling. Cloud-based solutions are often integrated with online registration and tuition payment options. You can pull reports to show the growth in attendance for your extended day program and the related financials.

Afterschool programs exist to provide more than a safe haven for students. They are also places to help students continue to grow and learn outside a classroom setting.

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Brief Supporting Student Success Through Afterschool Programs

Introduction

Children spend an  average of 80% of their days out of school, prompting policymakers to provide more expanded learning opportunities beyond regular school hours. Afterschool programs, also known as OST (out-of-school time) programs, have emerged as valuable resources that provide academic support, enrichment activities, workforce development opportunities, mentoring relationships and more. These programs aim to enhance the overall development and well-being of children of all ages.  

What the Research Says

Research  consistently demonstrates that high-quality afterschool programs have a positive impact on students'  educational outcomes ,  school attendance  and  social and emotional learning . Recognizing the diverse needs of children and youth across different age groups, quality afterschool programs cater to their academic, psychological and physical activity requirements. Regular participation in these programs has been linked to  lower dropout rates  and a  narrowing of achievement gaps , particularly among low-income students. Additionally, for  older youth , afterschool programs can contribute to a reduction in  risky behaviors  and the development of  college  and  career-readiness skills . 

While afterschool programming has shown to improve social and emotional outcomes for students, research indicates certain  key elements  are needed for success. These include regular attendance, well-trained staff, and high-quality programming. The Afterschool Alliance has been at the forefront of documenting how children and youth spend their afterschool hours through their comprehensive national and state-specific reports since 2004. Their  2020 America After 3PM  report  revealed  a persistent demand for afterschool programs, with three children waiting for every one enrolled. This translates to approximately 25 million children being unable to access afterschool programs due to barriers such as program cost, availability, and transportation or accessibility challenges. 

Afterschool Data Project

Since 2014, with support from the Charles S. Mott Foundation, NCSL has worked with nearly all 50 states on data grant projects. NCSL has provided technical assistance to statewide afterschool networks as they collected new and compiled existing state-specific afterschool and summer learning data and shared this data with state legislators and other key stakeholders via written reports and data release events. Many grantees have gathered information on afterschool programs and gaps in access to afterschool, while others have conducted afterschool return on investment studies. Links to data reports or mapping tools, when applicable, are included below. To learn more about NCSL’s data mapping project, view the Afterschool Data Project webpage. 

GIS Map Projects: 

• California   
• Colorado   
• New Mexico   

Return-On-Investment (ROI) Projects: 

• Georgia   
• Kansas   
• Vermont  

Funding for Afterschool

Afterschool activities provide valuable opportunities for children to explore their interests, develop skills and foster social connections outside of the traditional school setting. However,  not all parents  can easily afford the costs associated with these activities. Financial constraints can pose challenges for families, limiting their ability to enroll their children in extracurricular programs. From enrollment fees to transportation expenses or even the cost of necessary equipment or materials, the cumulative financial burden can become overwhelming. This situation can be particularly difficult for low-income families or those facing financial hardships. According to Afterschool Alliance’s America After 3PM data, for the first time in more than a decade, the number of children in an afterschool program has decreased because of barriers. 

Federal Funding

The  Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers  (21st CCLC) program stands as the sole dedicated federal funding source specifically designed for local afterschool, before-school, and summer learning programs. Currently, this program serves nearly 2 million youths through state education-awarded grants. However, research highlights various barriers that hinder access to afterschool programming, with funding being a major concern. Cost and limited availability continue to prevent many parents from enrolling their children in afterschool programs, with approximately  3 in 5 parents  citing these reasons. Despite the increased demand, federal funding for the 21st CCLC program has not kept pace with inflation, resulting in a  $10 million decrease  in inflation-adjusted terms since 2014. Consequently, the responsibility for funding such programs falls heavily on states, communities and families. While there is  strong bipartisan parent support  for public funding of afterschool programs, allocating additional funding can be challenging due to tight state budgets. 

State Afterschool Policy Action

The following examples provide a snapshot of enacted legislation and is not exhaustive:

• NCSL on Education Legislation | Bill Tracking NCSL
• NCSL on NCSL's Work To Bolster Afterschool Mapping and Data Collection To Inform Policy NCSL
• NCSL on Getting Women Back to Work Through Child Care, Community Partnerships NCSL
• NCSL on How Data Mapping Can Inform Out-of-School Time Policy NCSL

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Four essential features to seek in an after-school program

Professor of Education and Department Chair, Clemson University

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David S. Fleming receives funding from the Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers

Clemson University provides funding as a member of The Conversation US.

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When it comes to after-school programs, there are all types from which to choose. But when it comes to finding a program that offers high-quality service and engaging activities that help children do better in school, that can be a challenge.

I know this because in the early 2000s, I evaluated after-school sites in the state of Florida as part of the federal 21st Century Community Learning Centers program.

I’ve seen some highly effective programs, such as one that taught students with developmental disabilities how to kayak and sail. But I’ve also seen a program in which officials seemed to be packing as many kids as they could into their facility because the program got funded based on how many students were registered. There were no structured activities. They even balked at my assessing how well they delivered services like homework assistance. They had so many kids to oversee, the notion of providing students with high-quality help seemed hardly to be a consideration.

At a different program I went to evaluate, at a rural high school in the Florida Panhandle, kids didn’t even know they were in a program.

“Program? What program?” a student responded to me once when I announced the reason I was there. “Coach just told us to meet someone in the library today for something.”

That was nearly 20 years ago. Since then, after-school programming has continuously struggled to meet demand , so finding a high-quality program may be even more difficult.

In 2020, one survey found, there were 24.6 million children who would have enrolled in an after-school program if one were available to them – 5.2 million more than in 2014, when the figure stood at 19.4 million.

Participation in an after-school program offers many benefits. Research has found, for instance, that it can boost students’ overall academic performance and behavior in school .

As an educator who focuses on how to ensure after-school programs actually help children learn, here are four elements that I urge parents and other caretakers to consider to make sure their children’s time in a program is time is well spent. Since many students suffered learning losses during the COVID-19 pandemic , I believe a sharper academic focus in after-school activities has taken on even greater importance.

1. Objectives and purpose

If a parent wants only a place for their child to be safe until they get off work, a program’s purpose may not matter. But most adults believe after-school programs should enable kids to explore topics of interest, try out new things and gain skills like communication and teamwork.

If a program description explicitly states that it provides homework assistance, tutoring, academic enrichment activities or opportunities to do community service, that is a good first step. Some programs have no discernible objectives, or they are broad and vague.

When programs use project-based academic activities, they can be effective in helping students to better understand specific subjects, such as math. The programs can be even more effective when the activities incorporate material from the child’s regular school .

That way, a program can maximize its academic impact . School-based programs have an advantage in this regard, since program staff can more easily communicate with staff from a child’s school.

2. Scheduled activities

If a program lacks a schedule that spells out what students will be doing, that can be a telltale sign that it doesn’t have much to offer. In my experience as a program evaluator, high-quality programs usually schedule activities in a way that helps promote their objectives.

For example, there are benefits when a specific time is set up for participants to complete homework with qualified staff who can provide meaningful help. When students complete their homework before coming home, it lessens stress for students and their families by saving more time for family activities and sleep.

3. Qualified staff

Parents should inquire about what kind of training and credentials staff have to do their jobs.

In terms of credentials, some examples include a child development associate certification, a certification in positive youth development or a certification through the National Enrichment Teachers Association . Such credentials show another level of professionalism .

Some programs may partner with a local college or university to bring on college students as volunteers. Research shows that college students bring a certain passion and enthusiasm to programs, and that participants “ feel special ” when older peers take an interest in them.

Parents should also ask how many staff members are on hand. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends a ratio of no more than 10 to 12 school-age students per qualified adult and groups of no more than 20 to 24 students with two qualified adults. When group and class sizes are reasonable, it better enables staff to provide high-quality learning experiences that can also include individual attention as warranted.

4. Daily attendance

Daily attendance patterns can offer clues about the level of student interest in a program. Don’t assume or accept that attendance is low because a program is too academic. Research has found that academic activities do not lower attendance at high-quality after-school programs.

Officials at successful programs expect regular attendance and collect attendance data. They know that if students don’t attend their programs, it will be a big challenge for the program to meet its goals and objectives.

When a program has clearly defined objectives, a schedule to meet those objectives, qualified staff members and students who attend regularly, the program tends to yield positive results , such as higher test scores and better work habits .

Parents and caretakers who know to look for these features should be better able to choose the best after-school program to meet their children’s needs.

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6 steps for how to start an afterschool program.

This post was originally published on March 3, 2021. It was updated with new content on 3/28/2024.

As you think how to start an afterschool program, you must make sure you’re covering all the bases to fill a growing need. The demand for afterschool programs is high. For every student in afterschool, two more would participate if a program were available, according to the Afterschool Alliance.

“Decades of research prove afterschool helps kids attend school more often, get better grades, and build foundational skills, like communication, teamwork, and problem solving,” the alliance says, adding that afterschool programs give parents peace of mind because they know their kids are safe — online and offline — and engaged in fun learning opportunities.

Let’s get an overview of what you must do to start an afterschool program and look at six steps to make it happen.

What Is an Afterschool Program?

Afterschool programs, which sometimes are called OST or out-of-school-time programs, serve children and youth of all ages , according to youth.gov. These programs include academic support, mentoring,  positive youth development , arts, sports and recreation, apprenticeships, workforce development programs and programs for  opportunity youth , who are youth not in schools or the workforce as well as youth experiencing homelessness.

A high-quality afterschool program provides a safe, nurturing environment for school age children by offering activities and homework help while fostering safe social interactions. 

What Is the Difference Between Afterschool Daycare and Afterschool Programs?

Afterschool daycare and afterschool programs are both child care. But there are a few key differences.

The main difference between daycares and afterschool programs is the focus and hours of operation, according to Ivy League Kids.

Daycares typically care for children as young as infants while afterschool programs are generally for school-aged children. Afterschool programs often have a more educational or recreational focus, with activities designed to enrich children’s learning and development.

Do You Need a License for an Afterschool Program ?

States have minimum licensing requirements that apply to afterschool programs, according to youth.gov. If you want to start a program, contact your state’s licensing agency to find out about the requirements. Private and public funding may also have separate requirements.

Some state requirements for school-age care include maintaining staff information, attendance records, staff to child ratios, immunizations and more! With Procare, all this information is at your fingertips! 

Six Steps to Start an Afterschool Program

1. secure a designated space.

When choosing the location for your afterschool program, keep travel and convenience in mind. Consider securing a location that’s close to the school where prospective students are enrolled and conveniently accessible to parents. 

Affordable options include schools, local libraries, churches or recreation centers.

2. Create a Business Plan

Do your homework. Research the market you’re entering, including competing afterschool programs and their curriculum. This will give you a foundation to build a business plan based on the community’s needs.

Local parents can be a great resource for ideas and information about what they value in an after-school program.

So how much does it cost to open an afterschool program? It depends on the size, location and scope of your program. You’ll need to factor in rent, purchasing furniture, insurance, marketing and vehicles to transport children from school to your program.

Simplify the Management of Your Before & After School Programs

In this eBook, you’ll see how Procare helped the Oregon City School District introduce online registration and pre-pay for after school programs and camps.

 3. Build Curriculum

You’ll need to create a diverse set of curriculum options to appeal to different age groups, including academic and recreational enrichment activities. Start with the basics like art, music, math and science. You can then supplement with homework help, recreational activities and plenty of free time to let the kids in your care burn off steam as needed. Parents also value enhanced and differentiated programs such as martial arts, foreign languages, cooking classes and STEM activities. Unique class offerings can differentiate your after-school program from competitors.

Let’s take a look at some afterschool program activities:

1. STEM Explorers Club

Objective : Cultivate a passion for STEM through hands-on projects and experiments.

• Activities : Building simple machines, coding rudimentary programs, engaging in basic chemistry experiments and participating in math challenges
• Learning Outcomes : Develops problem-solving skills and fosters an understanding of scientific principles and technology

2. Literacy Enrichment Program

Objective : Enhance reading, writing and comprehension skills while instilling a lifelong love of literature.

• Activities : Book club discussions, creative-writing workshops, poetry readings, interactive storytime sessions and vocabulary games
• Learning Outcomes : Increases literacy proficiency, expands vocabulary and encourages imaginative thinking

3. Young Artists Studio

Objective : Provide a creative outlet for self-expression through various art mediums.

• Activities : Painting, sculpting, drawing, mixed media crafts, art history lessons and artist showcases
• Learning Outcomes : Stimulates creativity, develops fine motor skills and promotes an appreciation for the arts.

4. Global Cultures and Languages

Objective : Expose students to diverse cultures and languages to foster global awareness and empathy.

• Activities : Basic language lessons, cultural crafts, international cuisine cooking sessions, traditional dance and music exploration as well as world geography
• Learning Outcomes : Builds cultural competency, encourages linguistic interest and nurtures an inclusive mindset

5. Eco-Warriors Environmental Club

Objective : Educate students on environmental conservation and sustainability practices through interactive experiences.

• Activities : Gardening and composting projects, nature hikes and wildlife observation, recycling and upcycling crafts and energy conservation workshops.
• Learning Outcomes : Imparts environmental stewardship, teaches sustainable living and inspires actions that benefit the planet

4. Hire Qualified Staff

Hiring qualified and passionate staff is critical to help parents feel confident that their child is receiving outstanding care as well as help you build and  maintain enrollment . As you search for educators for your program, consider reaching out to teachers and other staff at elementary schools who may be seeking additional after-hours work.  Since many of these individuals already have relationships with local families and they are already employed in schools, you can be confident they’ll greatly enhance your enrichment program. 

 5. Use Technology to Simplify Processes  

Operating a successful after-school program requires juggling many responsibilities that often compromise your primary focus of caring for students. Using  child care management software  simplifies time-consuming tasks such as collecting tuition, registering children, managing wait lists, processing employee time cards and tracking attendance. By simplifying operations with software designed for afterschool programs, your staff can focus on fostering a caring environment that promotes students’ growth rather than worrying about paperwork and administrative tasks.

 6. Maintain a Safe and Secure Environment

Afterschool programs are meant to provide a secure place for children when school is not in session so ensuring your students’ safety is priority number one. Security solutions such as  keyless entry , secure door controllers and fingerprint pads for electronic check-in help prevent unauthorized entry. They also help you monitor who has entered secure areas so you can take appropriate measures to tighten security controls if necessary.

How Procare Can Help!

Procare gives you the power to manage every aspect of your afterschool program , regardless of its size and structure.  From invoicing, billing and payments, to keeping track of children and family information, everything you need is in one place. 

Procare saves you time and money by streamlining administrative tasks so you can focus more on the growth and development of the children in your care.

Download the “Simplify the Management of Your Before & After School Programs” eBook  here to learn how Procare can:

• Manage child and family data with an online family portal
• Offer secure online payments by credit or debit card
• Manage enrollment level, staffing and scheduling across multiple program sites
• Keep parents informed with updates using email, text and push notifications
• Share monthly calendars so parents can plan to attend events or activities

Get started today!

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Talk with a friendly Procare expert to get a tailored child care solution for the unique needs of your business.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Leah woodbury.

Leah Woodbury is the head of content at Procare Solutions. Her job includes writing about topics that matter to child care professionals and finding ways to help them do their important work. She’s a mom of two who loves getting updates about what her preschooler is doing during the day via the Procare child care mobile app!

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Are you interested in becoming an after school program manager? We’ve put together this resource with advice on how to do it.

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Best Practices for Running a Successful After-School Program

Naturally, any after-school program director or coordinator would like their program to have engaged and motivated students whose academic performance and social skills are improving within a safe and supervised environment.

However, you also know that managing a high-quality program with such results has many moving parts, such as strengthening relationships with students and your community, keeping in touch with parents, and coordinating program staff.

Given this complexity and today’s technological advances, certain best practices have emerged that can help you streamline and improve different aspects of after-school program management, thus increasing the quality of your entire program.

Without further ado, here are the top five best practices for running a successful after-school program.

Know How to Lead

Build connections in your community, strengthen your relationship with students, keep in touch with parents, run your program with the right software.

We could say that behind every successful after-school program is an equally skillful program director who knows how to lead.

This means program directors should have an open leadership style that contributes to a positive after-school program environment based on supportive relationships between staff members and students.

For instance, an after-school program  leader can hold regular team meetings where staff members are encouraged to share their ideas and concerns and give and receive constructive feedback .

The same applies to giving students opportunities to have their say and provide feedback about the program.

For this purpose, the program leader can organize student meetings, create a suggestion box, or conduct an online survey for students and parents, like in this example:

Source: HST Houston

Of course, a good leader will transparently communicate expectations from staff and students, ask for feedback, and generally create a sense of trust.

Another aspect of quality program leadership is being able to clearly articulate the program’s mission, goals, and benefits to everyone involved—staff, students, families, and community leaders—in order to generate the support crucial for the program’s success.

Here’s an example of how the Ventura Unified School District and the City of Ventura  clearly communicate these program elements.

Source: City of Ventura

Considering that after-school programs generally provide a variety of activities, their success depends on the participation and collaboration of various educators, counselors, tutors, activity leaders, program assistants, coaches, volunteers, and parent helpers.

And the program director manages and coordinates all of them, so their leadership is crucial for running a successful after-school program.

So, to recap what a great program leader should do:

• define a clear vision for the program and communicate it to all stakeholders
• lead by example
• actively listen to staff and student feedback
• encourage staff and students to take initiative
• foster a positive environment

When these leadership skills are coupled with good management practices, such as hiring qualified staff  and encouraging students’ regular attendance, studies  show that students develop better work habits and achieve higher test scores.

Therefore, the most important practice is developing a combination of skills that will help you lead, motivate, and inspire everybody whose support you need to run a successful after-school program.

Whether an after-school program is successful or not largely depends on the program director’s ability to build connections with groups, organizations, businesses, and individuals in their community.

If you can leverage those connections, your community can help with resources such as financial assistance, materials, supplies, and services your program needs to provide students with better learning experiences after their regular school day.

For example, arts, science, and technology activities are often enhanced by using materials, supplies, or equipment donated by local organizations and businesses.

Source: MiddleWeb

Moreover, various community groups and individuals possess the knowledge, experience, and skills to improve workshops and events aligned with your program’s goals and students’ interests.

Such activities will provide students with engaging learning experiences that can help them both academically and socially.

The same effect is generated when community members work with students individually, usually as tutors and mentors.

For instance, local high school or university students can volunteer their time to provide homework assistance and tutoring during the after-school program, like in this example :

Source: Volunteer Match

Furthermore, community members may be invited as guest speakers to share their knowledge and expertise in a particular field or topic.

Likewise, you can organize after-school field trips to local public institutions, such as museums, libraries, and universities, to provide students with real-life learning experiences.

Maybe most importantly, strong relationships with your community allow you to incorporate community service opportunities into your program, thus providing students  with a valuable opportunity to give back to their community.

Such opportunities are an excellent way for students to become more involved in their community while enhancing their personal, social, and academic growth.

Source: Hometown News Brevard

For example, doing park cleanups  or planting trees in partnership with local environmental organizations give students a chance to contribute to their community in a meaningful way while also learning about the importance of environmental protection.

At the same time, they’re developing important skills such as teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving.

Finally, such community service actions also generate more community support for your program.

Overall, your community has so many resources that can enrich your after-school program that building connections and establishing partnerships with local organizations, groups, businesses, and individuals is crucial for running a successful program.

A quality after-school program has qualified staff members who understand the importance of fostering strong relationships with students.

More precisely, they should be mentors and role models to their students, communicate high expectations for their academic performance and behavior, and help them meet those expectations within the after-school program.

In fact, many studies  have revealed that regular attendance of high-quality after-school programs is linked to improvements in academic performance, work habits, and social and emotional competence.

For example, one study  found that students who regularly attended such programs:

…demonstrated significant gains in standardized math test scores, compared to their peers who were routinely unsupervised during afterschool hours.

In other words, the program staff should be aware that having high expectations from their students, when coupled with the proper support, can help improve their skills and build their confidence, as highlighted by the Massachusetts Afterschool Partnership (MAP) :

Source: MAP

However, unrealistic or unsupported expectations can have the opposite effect on children’s motivation and outcomes, which is why the program director’s hiring practices and leadership are so important.

And this is only highlighted by the fact that children attending the program already had their school day and may be tired and hungry.

Therefore, staff members should know how to create a positive and supportive environment that offers students opportunities for rest and nourishment and provides a structured routine that balances academic, enriching, and recreational activities.

Source: City of Atlanta

That way, students will get the most out of their after-school experience and improve their academic and social skills in a safe and engaging environment.

Another important aspect of strengthening relationships with your students is to ask them for input and use their suggestions when planning program activities.

Naturally, if students feel heard and see their ideas realized, that will boost their engagement and increase their participation.

For example, after parents register their children for your after-school program , you can ask them to help their kids fill out an online survey about what program activities they’re most interested in.

Based on the survey results—and your program’s goals—you and your staff can design activities that students find relevant and interesting.

This will not only increase their engagement but also strengthen the relationship with students by building trust and rapport between them and the program staff.

To sum up, strong relationships with students require a skillful program director and qualified staff who know how to communicate high expectations, help students meet those expectations, and use student input to improve their after-school program.

For their program to be successful, program directors and staff need to use formal and informal communication to share relevant information about the program with students and their families on a regular basis.

This will keep parents and guardians in the loop about the latest events and new plans, their child’s behavior and interests, as well as reassure them that your program is doing everything it can to keep their children safe and engaged.

Therefore, transparent and efficient communication with parents is vital.

Of course, today, you have many convenient digital communication methods to achieve this, such as email or text messages (SMS or social media apps like WhatsApp and Viber).

Source: LinkedIn

Therefore, staying in touch with parents has never been easier, but this still requires careful planning and organization.

For example, as a way of formal communication between your program and students’ families, they can receive a monthly newsletter and other notices by email , while other digital communication methods may be reserved for less formal interactions.

Naturally, there are many software tools that will allow you to create an e-mailing list of parents and automate the sending of newsletters, reminders, or follow-up e-mails.

Such tools are usually part of broader registration management software solutions discussed in the next section.

As for other interactions with parents, face-to-face communication  remains the most effective method  for successfully relaying relevant information about your program or asking for their support, such as inviting them to volunteer.

To sum up, transparent and regular communication with parents using different formal and informal, online and offline methods is crucial for ensuring the parents’ peace of mind and getting their support in running a successful after-school program.

Last but not least, managing your program with the help of specialized software  is, in today’s world, both necessary and expected.

Parents are used to the convenience of online shopping, registrations, and payment options, so they come to expect it from their after-school program  as well.

The benefits they get from your program utilizing online registration software range from easy sign-up and payment process, increased access to information, personalized payment plans, and improved communication with the program staff.

In practice, this means they can register their children from any device with an internet connection and pay for the program online.

Source: New Community

From then on, they can access relevant info at any time and easily communicate with program directors and staff.

Together, these features provide parents with the convenience and accessibility they learned to expect in their busy lives.

However, it might be said that people involved in managing the day-to-day activities of after-school programs have even more to gain from such software.

For starters, when an after-school program is managed within a single software solution, this automates many administrative tasks, such as data entry, record keeping, and payment processing, which then translates into fewer errors and significantly more time for the program staff.

One such solution is our after-school program registration software, Regpack .

Source: Regpack

As highlighted, Regpack makes it simple for parents to register and pay for your program.

At the same time, it automates many tasks, such as creating program rosters, tracking program attendance, analyzing program data, and generating relevant reports, all of which make managing the program easier for the staff.

Program management is further facilitated by features  like customized registration forms for easy data collection, automatic porting of applicant information, and automated email notifications that can be used to enhance communication with parents.

Overall, running an after-school program  with the right software provides all involved—parents and students, the program director, and staff—with the convenience and efficiency needed to streamline program management and achieve program success.

To summarize the main takeaways, a high-quality after-school program needs a skillful leader who can build community connections, encourages staff members to strengthen their relationship with students, and stays in touch with parents while using the right tools to manage the program.

Ultimately, applying these best practices will allow you to run a successful after-school rogram that helps students improve their academic performance and social skills in a safe and enpgaging environment.

Asaf, Founder and CEO of Regpack, has extensive experience as an entrepreneur and investor. Asaf has built 3 successful companies to date, all with an exit plan or that have stayed in profitability and are still functional. Asaf specializes in product development for the web, team building and in bringing a company from concept to an actualized unit that is profitable.

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Four essential features to seek in an after-school program

Effective homework help can reduce stress for students and their families.

David S. Fleming , Clemson University

When it comes to after-school programs, there are all types from which to choose. But when it comes to finding a program that offers high-quality service and engaging activities that help children do better in school, that can be a challenge.

I know this because in the early 2000s, I evaluated after-school sites in the state of Florida as part of the federal 21st Century Community Learning Centers program.

I’ve seen some highly effective programs, such as one that taught students with developmental disabilities how to kayak and sail. But I’ve also seen a program in which officials seemed to be packing as many kids as they could into their facility because the program got funded based on how many students were registered. There were no structured activities. They even balked at my assessing how well they delivered services like homework assistance. They had so many kids to oversee, the notion of providing students with high-quality help seemed hardly to be a consideration.

At a different program I went to evaluate, at a rural high school in the Florida Panhandle, kids didn’t even know they were in a program.

“Program? What program?” a student responded to me once when I announced the reason I was there. “Coach just told us to meet someone in the library today for something.”

That was nearly 20 years ago. Since then, after-school programming has continuously struggled to meet demand , so finding a high-quality program may be even more difficult.

In 2020, one survey found, there were 24.6 million children who would have enrolled in an after-school program if one were available to them – 5.2 million more than in 2014, when the figure stood at 19.4 million.

Participation in an after-school program offers many benefits. Research has found, for instance, that it can boost students’ overall academic performance and behavior in school .

As an educator who focuses on how to ensure after-school programs actually help children learn, here are four elements that I urge parents and other caretakers to consider to make sure their children’s time in a program is time is well spent. Since many students suffered learning losses during the COVID-19 pandemic , I believe a sharper academic focus in after-school activities has taken on even greater importance.

1. Objectives and purpose

If a parent wants only a place for their child to be safe until they get off work, a program’s purpose may not matter. But most adults believe after-school programs should enable kids to explore topics of interest, try out new things and gain skills like communication and teamwork.

If a program description explicitly states that it provides homework assistance, tutoring, academic enrichment activities or opportunities to do community service, that is a good first step. Some programs have no discernible objectives, or they are broad and vague.

When programs use project-based academic activities, they can be effective in helping students to better understand specific subjects, such as math. The programs can be even more effective when the activities incorporate material from the child’s regular school .

That way, a program can maximize its academic impact . School-based programs have an advantage in this regard, since program staff can more easily communicate with staff from a child’s school.

2. Scheduled activities

If a program lacks a schedule that spells out what students will be doing, that can be a telltale sign that it doesn’t have much to offer. In my experience as a program evaluator, high-quality programs usually schedule activities in a way that helps promote their objectives.

For example, there are benefits when a specific time is set up for participants to complete homework with qualified staff who can provide meaningful help. When students complete their homework before coming home, it lessens stress for students and their families by saving more time for family activities and sleep.

3. Qualified staff

Parents should inquire about what kind of training and credentials staff have to do their jobs.

In terms of credentials, some examples include a child development associate certification, a certification in positive youth development or a certification through the National Enrichment Teachers Association . Such credentials show another level of professionalism .

Some programs may partner with a local college or university to bring on college students as volunteers. Research shows that college students bring a certain passion and enthusiasm to programs, and that participants “ feel special ” when older peers take an interest in them.

Parents should also ask how many staff members are on hand. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends a ratio of no more than 10 to 12 school-age students per qualified adult and groups of no more than 20 to 24 students with two qualified adults. When group and class sizes are reasonable, it better enables staff to provide high-quality learning experiences that can also include individual attention as warranted.

4. Daily attendance

Daily attendance patterns can offer clues about the level of student interest in a program. Don’t assume or accept that attendance is low because a program is too academic. Research has found that academic activities do not lower attendance at high-quality after-school programs.

Officials at successful programs expect regular attendance and collect attendance data. They know that if students don’t attend their programs, it will be a big challenge for the program to meet its goals and objectives.

When a program has clearly defined objectives, a schedule to meet those objectives, qualified staff members and students who attend regularly, the program tends to yield positive results , such as higher test scores and better work habits .

Parents and caretakers who know to look for these features should be better able to choose the best after-school program to meet their children’s needs.

David S. Fleming , Professor of Education and Department Chair, Clemson University

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article .

Creating a Successful After School Routine: Balancing Homework and Fun

As parents, we all want our children to excel academically and enjoy a happy, well-rounded childhood. Finding the right balance between homework and fun after school can be a challenge, but with the right approach, it’s entirely possible. At Kid-Tastic Child Care, we understand the importance of creating a successful after-school routine that ensures your child thrives academically while still having plenty of time for fun and relaxation. In this blog article, we’ll share some valuable tips to help you strike that perfect balance.

1. Prioritize Homework Time

The key to a successful after-school routine is setting aside dedicated time for homework. Establish a quiet, organized study space that is free from distractions, such as the television or noisy siblings. Encourage your child to tackle the most challenging assignments first when they are most alert and focused. Break tasks into manageable chunks to prevent overwhelm, and be available to provide guidance and support as needed.

2. Create a Homework Schedule

Consistency is key when it comes to homework. Create a daily homework schedule that aligns with your child’s natural rhythm. Some children prefer to dive right into homework after school, while others need a short break to unwind. Be flexible and adjust the schedule based on what works best for your child, but always ensure there is a dedicated time for homework each day.

3. Set Realistic Expectations

Understanding your child’s grade level and capabilities is crucial when setting expectations for homework. While you want your child to excel, it’s important not to overload them with excessive work. Balance is about achieving the right mix of challenges and achievable goals. Monitor your child’s progress, and if you notice they are consistently struggling with a particular subject, consider seeking additional help or tutoring.

4. Encourage Healthy Snacks and Breaks

After a long day at school, your child may need a healthy snack and a short break to recharge before diving into homework. Provide nutritious options that fuel their brain and body, such as fruit, yogurt, or whole-grain crackers. Short breaks can help them refocus and prevent burnout. Encourage physical activity during these breaks to release pent-up energy.

5. Plan Fun Activities

Once homework is completed, it’s time to have some fun! Plan a variety of activities that allow your child to explore their interests, develop new skills, and socialize with friends. These activities could include sports, art classes, music lessons, or simply playing outside. Make sure your child has some say in what they want to do during their free time to keep them engaged and motivated.

6. Limit Screen Time

While technology has its benefits, it’s important to limit screen time, especially on school nights. Excessive screen time can interfere with sleep and homework completion. Set clear boundaries and establish a technology-free period during the evening to encourage other activities like reading, board games, or creative play.

7. Foster a Love for Learning

Encourage your child’s curiosity and love for learning. Show them that learning doesn’t stop when the school bell rings. Visit the library, explore museums, and engage in educational outings as a family. When children see that learning can be fun and exciting, they are more likely to approach their homework with enthusiasm.

8. Maintain a Consistent Bedtime

A successful after-school routine extends into the evening. Ensure your child gets enough sleep by establishing a consistent bedtime. A well-rested child is better equipped to handle the demands of school and extracurricular activities.

In conclusion, creating a successful after-school routine that balances homework and fun is achievable with careful planning and flexibility. Tailor your approach to your child’s unique needs, and remember that maintaining a healthy work-life balance is essential for their overall development. By following these tips, you’ll help your child thrive academically and enjoy a fulfilling childhood.

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Unlocking the Power of After-School Programs: Nurturing Growth and Empowering Students

In today’s fast-paced world, the role of education goes beyond the traditional classroom setting. After-school programs have emerged as a powerful tool to supplement formal education, offering a plethora of benefits to students, parents, and communities alike.

In this article, we will explore the significance of after-school programs and delve into various types of programs that cater to diverse interests and needs, ultimately fostering a brighter future for our youth.

Table of contents

Introduction, types of after-school programs, academic enrichment programs, sports and physical activities, arts and culture programs, life skills development, technology and digital skills programs, community engagement and volunteering, specialized programs for diverse populations, after-school programs and academic success, frequently asked questions.

After-school programs play a pivotal role in a student’s educational journey. They bridge the gap between school and home, ensuring a holistic approach to learning. These programs extend learning beyond school hours, providing a safe and supportive environment for students to explore their interests, develop essential skills, and nurture their overall growth.

With parents often being engaged in work or other responsibilities during the afternoon hours, after-school programs offer a safe and structured environment for students. These programs not only keep children engaged constructively but also contribute significantly to their personal development.

Benefits for Students, Parents, and Communities are:

1. Academic Benefits:

   – Improved academic performance through homework assistance and subject-specific tutoring.

   – Enhanced critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

   – Better grasp of complex concepts through STEM programs and creative writing initiatives.

2. Social and Emotional Development:

   – Increased self-confidence and self-esteem through participating in team sports or arts programs.

   – Better communication and leadership skills fostered through specialized workshops.

   – Opportunities to form lasting friendships and build a sense of belonging.

3. Health and Wellness:

   – Physical fitness promoted through sports and health-oriented activities.

   – Reduced risk of engaging in negative behaviors by staying occupied with positive activities.

   – Improved mental well-being through creative and expressive arts programs.

4. Community Engagement:

   – Stronger community ties forged through volunteering and service-oriented projects.

   – Positive impact on the local community, fostering a sense of responsibility and empathy.

   – Cultivating socially aware and responsible citizens through activism programs.

Understanding After-School Programs

After-school programs are organized activities designed to cater to the developmental and educational needs of students outside regular school hours. These programs may take place on school premises, community centers, or other designated locations. The primary purpose of after-school programs is to create a supportive and enriching environment that supplements the efforts of formal education.

In after-school programs, fun activities for kids can include arts and crafts, sports, outdoor games, science experiments, storytelling sessions, cooking classes, and interactive group projects. These engaging activities not only provide a break from regular academic routines but also promote social skills, creativity, teamwork, and a love for learning in a relaxed and enjoyable environment.

• Subject-Specific Tutoring and Mentoring : One-on-one or small group tutoring to aid students in challenging subjects.
• STEM Programs : Engaging activities centered around science, technology, engineering, and mathematics to spark interest in these fields. Introducing computer programming for kids at an early age reduces the gap in STEM education, equipping children with essential technical skills, fostering problem-solving abilities.
• Language Learning Programs : Immersive language classes to foster bilingualism and cultural appreciation.
• Creative Writing and Literary Programs : Nurturing creativity and storytelling abilities through writing workshops and book clubs.
• Subject-Specific Tutoring and Mentoring

Academic enrichment programs focusing on subject-specific tutoring and mentoring can be immensely beneficial for students struggling with particular subjects. One-on-one attention or small group sessions provide an opportunity to address individual learning needs, resulting in improved academic performance and increased confidence.

• STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) Programs

STEM programs aim to cultivate an interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics among students. Through hands-on experiments, projects, and interactive sessions, these programs make learning fun and exciting. By fostering curiosity and problem-solving skills, students are better equipped to pursue careers in STEM-related fields.

• Language Learning Programs

Language learning programs offer students the chance to explore new languages and cultures. By immersing themselves in the language through interactive activities, conversations, and cultural experiences, students can gain language proficiency and a deeper appreciation for diversity.

• Creative Writing and Literary Programs

Creative writing and literary programs encourage students to explore their imagination and creativity through writing. Workshops and book clubs not only improve writing skills but also promote critical thinking and analysis through literary discussions.

• Team Sports Programs: Team sports programs foster teamwork, discipline, and leadership qualities in students. Whether it’s soccer, basketball, or volleyball, participating in team sports enhances social skills and provides valuable lessons in cooperation and sportsmanship.
• Individual Sports Programs: Individual sports programs cater to students who prefer sports that can be pursued independently. Activities such as swimming, tennis, or martial arts instill self-discipline, resilience, and goal-setting.
• Health and Fitness Programs: Health and fitness programs promote overall well-being by encouraging physical activity and healthy lifestyle choices. These programs may include yoga, dance, or aerobics classes that not only improve physical health but also reduce stress and anxiety.
• Visual Arts Programs:

Visual arts programs offer students an outlet for self-expression and creativity. Through painting, drawing, and sculpture, students can explore their artistic talents and develop a deeper appreciation for various art forms.

• Performing Arts Programs:

Performing arts programs, such as theater and drama clubs, provide a platform for students to showcase their talents and boost their self-confidence through public performances.

Art for kids in after-school programs offers a wonderful platform for creative expression and skill development. Through various art forms like drawing, painting, sculpting, and crafts, children can unleash their imagination, boost self-confidence, and develop fine motor skills while discovering the joy of artistic exploration in a supportive and nurturing environment.

Visit art projects for kids .

• Music and Instrumental Programs:

Music and instrumental programs help students discover their musical talents and enhance their auditory skills. Learning to play musical instruments and participating in choirs or bands also promotes teamwork and collaboration.

Check out classical music for kids .

• Dance and Movement Programs:

Dance and movement programs not only promote physical fitness but also allow students to express emotions and ideas through dance forms like ballet, hip-hop, or contemporary dance.

• Leadership and Communication Skills Programs

Leadership and communication skills programs empower students to become effective leaders and confident communicators. These workshops teach essential skills such as public speaking, problem-solving, and decision-making.

• Financial Literacy and Entrepreneurship Programs

Financial literacy and entrepreneurship programs equip students with practical knowledge about managing money, budgeting, and investing. These skills are essential for their financial independence and success.

• Time Management and Organization Skills Programs

Time management and organization skills are crucial for students to balance their academic responsibilities and extracurricular activities effectively. Programs that teach time management and organization techniques help students become more efficient and productive.

In today’s digital age, coding and programming skills are highly sought after. Coding programs introduce students to computer programming languages, fostering creativity and problem-solving abilities.

Digital literacy programs educate students about responsible internet usage, online safety, and the potential risks associated with the digital world. Coding for kids in after-school programs offers a valuable opportunity for young learners to develop essential digital skills. Through interactive and fun coding activities, children not only learn to program but also enhance their problem-solving abilities, logical thinking, and creativity, preparing them for a tech-savvy future and potential careers in the digital world.

Robotics and engineering programs offer hands-on experiences with building and programming robots, sparking interest in technology and engineering careers.

Check out robotics for kids .

Engaging in community-based activities for kids and volunteering through after school programs offers valuable life experiences. It helps them develop empathy, social responsibility, and teamwork while fostering a sense of belonging and making a positive impact in their communities. These activities provide a well-rounded education, nurturing both personal growth and a strong sense of civic duty in young minds.

• Community Service Programs: Community service programs encourage students to give back to their communities through volunteering and service-oriented projects. These experiences cultivate empathy and a sense of social responsibility.
• Social Awareness and Activism Programs: Social awareness and activism programs expose students to various social issues, encouraging them to become advocates for positive change.
• Environmental Conservation Programs: Environmental conservation programs raise awareness about environmental issues and empower students to take actions to protect the planet.
• Programs for Students with Disabilities: After-school programs designed for students with disabilities offer tailored support and accommodations to ensure inclusivity and a positive learning experience.
• Programs for At-Risk Youth: Programs for at-risk youth provide mentorship and resources to help them overcome challenges and stay on the path to success.
• Programs for English Language Learners: After-school programs for English Language Learners focus on language acquisition and cultural integration, providing additional support outside the regular classroom.
• Programs for Gifted and Talented Students: Specialized programs for gifted and talented students challenge them academically and foster their unique talents and interests.

After-school programs contribute to improved academic performance by providing additional academic support and opportunities for practice and reinforcement of concepts learned in school. After school programs that focus on drawing for kids provide a creative outlet, fostering artistic expression and imagination while promoting skill development and a love for art.

After-school programs can play a vital role in narrowing the achievement gap between students from different socioeconomic backgrounds, providing equal access to enrichment opportunities.

Through engaging and interactive activities, after-school programs nurture critical thinking and problem-solving skills, preparing students for future challenges.

After-school programs are much more than just a way to keep students occupied after the bell rings. They are powerful tools that nurture growth and empower students to become well-rounded individuals.

From academic enrichment and sports to arts, life skills, technology, and community engagement, these programs offer a diverse range of opportunities for students to explore their interests and passions.

As we continue to recognize the significance of after-school programs in shaping the future of our youth, let us invest in and support these programs to create a generation of capable, confident, and responsible leaders.

Unlock a world of possibilities with BrightChamps , your partner in fostering holistic growth and education for children. From interactive resources to engaging activities, we provide a comprehensive platform that nurtures creativity, critical thinking, and character development. Join us in shaping the leaders of tomorrow, where learning becomes a joyful journey of exploration and empowerment.

To get your hands on more such educational and free resources on  coding for kids ,  robotics courses for kids , game development, etc., do check out the  Brightchamps Blog Page  now!

To find after-school programs in your area, check with local schools, community centers, or youth organizations. Online searches and local directories can also provide valuable information.

No, after-school programs are available for students of all ages, including middle school and high school students.

The typical duration of after-school programs varies but usually lasts for 1 to 3 hours, depending on the activities and organization.

Parents can get involved in after-school programs by volunteering, attending parent-teacher meetings, and supporting fundraising efforts.

 Costs for after-school programs vary based on location and the type of activities offered. Some programs may offer scholarships or sliding scale fees to make them more accessible.

Yes, after-school programs prioritize safety and supervision. They often have qualified staff and adhere to strict safety protocols to ensure the well-being of students.

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Homework in Russian Education Facilities: Key Facts and Types

1 Comment · Posted by Alex Smirnov in Education

What is homework in the first place? In a nutshell, it is one of the forms of educational activities performed by students outside the classroom or in extracurricular time. This form of activity can pursue a number of goals:

• To help students assimilate and retain the material presented in the class better;
• To let students self-study certain topics or concepts that don’t require clarification from the teacher;
• To assess how well students have grasped the material. Also, to understand how well they can apply the obtained knowledge and skills for finding solutions to certain problems;
• To identify gaps in knowledge.

For decades, homework of all shapes and kinds has been an integral part of the educational process. This type of activity is used by pretty much all education facilities, regardless of the level, and all across the world. However, the essence and types of homework can vary from country to country.

Namely, due to a significant difference in the overall education system in Russia, the types of homework assigned to students in this country can be somewhat different. For example, it will be different from homework types assigned, say, in the US. As we know, here, the largest academic challenge facing students is writing, which can be delegated to make my essay service professionals. But, the situation in Russian education facilities is different.

In this article, we are going to take a closer look at the homework in Russia and discover what types of this extracurricular activity are there.

Basic Requirements for the Content and Volume of Homework

In Russia, both the volume and content of homework are regulated by law. The Ministry of Justice of the Russian Federation sets very specific sanitary and epidemiological norms for the conditions and organization of training in educational institutions and closely monitors their compliance.

According to these regulations, the organization of home schoolwork has to be an integral part of the general problem of improving the educational process at school. The content, nature, and functions of homework cannot be considered in isolation from the content, nature, and methods of teaching applied in the classroom. It is during the lessons that teachers must create the right conditions for the successful completion of homework.

Many components and stages of the lesson are directly related to the subsequent completion of homework: checking homework, assigning homework lessons, students’ independent work in the lesson, etc. The combination of these components should be such that in the lesson, the student would get fully prepared for the homework and so that the lesson and subsequent independent work are a uniform process.

Currently, there are the following basic requirements for homework in Russia:

• The overall volume of the homework should not exceed 30% of the total amount of work performed in the classroom.
• The total time spent by students on homework should not exceed: 1.5 hours for 2 through 3 grade; 2 hours for 4 through 5 grade; 2.5 hours for 6 through 8 grade; and 3.5 for 9 through 11 grade.

According to stats, Russia is among the countries where students spend the most time on homework – on average, they are dealing with 9.7 hours of homework per week.

Types and Forms of Homework in Russia

Schools and higher education facilities in Russia use different types of homework assignments to ensure the integrity and efficiency of the learning process. Namely, we can distinguish the following types of assignments:

• Individual;
• Differentiated;
• One for the whole class;
• Compiling homework for a deskmate.

Now, let’s look at each type in detail.

As you can easily guess, individual homework is usually assigned to individual students and is tailored to their specific needs, the current level of knowledge, existing gaps, and other individual factors. This form of homework makes it easy for the teacher to check the level of knowledge of a particular student. Such work can be done on cards or using printed workbooks.

Group homework is also a pretty common activity. It implies that the class is being divided into smaller groups of students, and each of the groups is assigned to work on a specific task that is part of the overall classroom assignment.

Differentiated homework is shaped based on the concept of differentiated instruction, which implies distinguishing students’ differences and using them to boost the effectiveness of learning. For example, this type of homework can be characterized by the following features:

• The assignment is the same for everyone, but the method of its completion varies depending on each student’s differences.
• There can be several options in the assignment, giving students the right to choose any of them independently.

Compiling homework for a deskmate is the most innovative approach to assigning homework. It implies that students will formulate the homework tasks for their peers themselves, based on the tasks that have been performed in the classroom.

Creative assignments include academic writing, personal projects, research, etc. They are typically assigned less frequently, and teachers give students more time to complete them. For example, a typical homework can have a deadline in just a day, whereas students should be given at least a week to complete a creative assignment.

Finally, the last and the most common type of homework in Russia is one assignment for the whole class. This can include different types of activities, including reading, writing, problem-solving, testing, etc. Typically, this is the form of the task students in Russia are dealing with daily.

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