Extended School Services Probably by far the larger number of children in need of care will be in the school-age group or old enough to attend kindergarten or nursery schools. In many communities nursery schools can be operated as part of the school system, and the school-age children can be provided supervised care in the schools before and after school hours. There may be legal difficulties in the way of keeping the schools open for the longer period or of using the buildings for children under the age of 5 or 6. Public support may be needed to overcome obstacles, for it is anticipated that the school must play a major part in meeting any considerable need. It is not too early to plan for vacation programs in the schools.
Many cities already have outstanding summer programs of recreation and education.
Supervised homemaker service provides these children with the security of their own. Family welfare, child welfare, and other qualified agencies have provided training for homemakers in many communities, as well as supervision and direction. However, homemakers are becoming harder to find as more women go into work in industry. No one would advise a mother with a child under 2 years of age to work, but some mothers may do so because of necessity. The most suitable and economical form of care for children under 2 is day care in a foster-family home, although such homes may be used for children of all ages.