Some actually want their children to do their homework, but that's inappropriate, Anderson said. However, there should be a quiet place if the child wants to do homework. Others just want to lie down and rest. Good programs allow kids the freedom to do both. The best programs offer a variety of activities, both physical and educational such as arts and crafts, computer games, lessons in piano karate or dance, according to Anderson.
Schools usually collaborate with other agencies and services to offer a variety of activities.
Milk or juice and some type of nutritious snack should be served. Parents also need to find out the hours, the type of training the provider has and whether holiday care is offered. Again, parents need to look at services and find out what the costs include such as registration and supply fees. Services will vary, Anderson said. Large cities will have a wide selection to choose from whereas small rural towns may only have one type or no after-school program.