But even she is limited. Afterschool programs, if they exist, often have waiting lists. Churches are great places to form bonds, but not all kids attend. Some communities are transient, not allowing close neighbor attachments. Some areas of our communities are just not safe for kids.
Many children go home alone after school.
This was common in poor families with no other options, but is prevalent throughout society now. Kids will go to any mentor available to them, including drug dealers and gang leaders. Marilyn Manson informs parents she'll raise your kids through her music. We can do something to help our communities develop mentoring capacity. Each of us can serve as coaches, teachers, religious and scout leaders.