The school day ends at 3:00pm for most students, but what happens if their parents’ work day ends later than that? Too much unstructured or unsupervised time for children can cause them to neglect their school-related obligations. A good AfterSchool program can make the hours after school productive ones: Bloomingdale Day Care runs the AfterSchool program for Bloomingdale township at Martha B. Day and Samuel R. Donald schools.
The goal of our AfterSchool program is to give children a “home away from home” after a long day of school. We strive to provide a balance of structured activities and free time, while also playing outside (weather permitting) or in the gym. Homework time is arranged for those who need it, and all children can enjoy socializing and making new friends!
Our AfterSchool program is fully licensed by the state. All of our teachers are fully-certified, complete criminal background checks and fingerprinting, are First Aid and CPR trained, and attend annual training geared towards caring for school-aged children.
We understand that finding an AfterSchool program can be a difficult task, so it’s helpful to understand the benefits of enrolling your child in one. An article titled 6 Benefits of Afterschool Programs from Understood.org helps answer questions parents may have:
Creates a Sense of Belonging
Our program is local, so it’s a great way for your child to connect with their peers in a new setting. Kids enrolled in AfterSchool programs are more likely to be included and feel part of a group.
Improves Social Skills
A program that promotes cooperation, support, and respect can help kids feel more secure about joining a game or even starting a conversation. If anyone makes a mistake, a teacher will be there to provide gentle reminders!
Provides Academic Support
The AfterSchool program provides homework help, which can be helpful for kids who struggle getting it done at home, or can’t sit down to do it until late at night.
Makes Learning More Fun
If students work on projects during the AfterSchool program, there are no tests and they can work together in groups with other kids with similar interests.
Provides Safety and Supervision
Keeping kids busy can keep them from engaging in risky behavior. Studies show that kids in AfterSchool programs are likely to get better grades and see fewer behavioral problems.
Builds Confidence
For kids who lack confidence, an AfterSchool program may feel more comfortable than school. They might be more willing to try new things and take more positive risks, which can lead to higher self-esteem.
You can learn more about our AfterSchool program by visiting our website. For more information about the program, including prices and how to enroll, please contact the main office at (973) 838-2459.
BONUS ARTICLE: It can be hard to remember all of the questions you want to ask, so we’re here to help with another article from Understood.org: 19 Questions to Ask About AfterSchool Programs.