Adults may not be available when children return home from school. Afterschool sitters and programs may not be readily available or affordable. The Promise Participation in afterschool programs is associated with better school grades, conduct, peer relations, and emotional adjustment. Students in afterschool programs view less television and engage in less risky behaviors. Our Response Families can overcome the challenges of unsupervised time in the afternoons by organizing parent co-ops, working with schools, and taking advantage of community resources to provide care for their children.
Some schools already offer afterschool programs.
Many churches, YMCAs, youth clubs, parks and recreation departments, and community organizations offer programs at reasonable prices. Finding a suitable afterschool program may be a challenge. Be willing to join with other parents to advocate new programs to school officials and community leaders. School buildings and churches are often vacant during afterschool hours. Community volunteers such as senior citizens are often willing to volunteer time.