Several San Diego County agencies pulled together in 1997 to line up public money for a network of after-school programs coordinated by the Children' s Initiative. Just about every free after-school program in the county is full and has a waiting list. Priority goes to families with working parents. Second priority goes to families who cannot afford day care. Although free programs are available, county organizers encourage parents to support their neighborhood programs to help keep them alive.
Some programs offer transportation.
Vans can be seen lining up behind buses at some schools, dropping off or picking up children. Before settling on a program, parents should determine what is best for their child. If your son or daughter is struggling in school, consider a program that offers tutoring. If your child gets no art or music activities in school, look for a program that offers fine-art instruction. And if your child is interested in sports, find a program that offers organized athletics.