In today's difficult economy many parents have to work full time jobs. This can often leave them scrambling for good reliable child care. Most school children are out by three o'clock and many have several hours of unsupervised time before their parents get home. With this in mind many communities are wondering how to start an afterschool care program.
Setting up this type of program takes a lot of work and time. Typically a group of concern individuals will get together and form a committee. Meetings are scheduled to establish some of the most basic needs, such as a suitable building and the number of staff that will be required. Local teachers, sports coaches and community leaders should all be involved in the process and have equal input into the decision making.
One of the most important components of good programs is flexibility. They hours and attendance should be on an as needed basis. The children may not need to attend every day, but only when their parents are at work. The hours and activities provided should also be flexible enough to meet all needs. There should be a mixture of sports and games, crafts, classes and educational activities.
Every program costs money and getting enough funds to hire staff, rent a building, pay for insurance and many other things can be an enormous challenge. Many people appeal directly to their local municipality or district to help with costs. There are also donations for the community, both individuals and corporate donations can go a long way. Fund raising will most likely be a big part of the running of a successful organization.
The local parents should be a big part of the planning process. They should be invited to give their thoughts and suggestions to the project. The children themselves should also be able to talk about which activities they would most like to see. Some children really love to be outside playing sports and games, whilst others prefer to read or do crafts. A comprehensive range of activities is very important.
One of the best places to look for funding is the local town or city. They often have grant money available to help fund all or part of a program. The group should ensure that they have a very thorough and complete plan in place before approaching anyone. This will help them to appear professional and create a good first impression. Financial backing is not always easy to find and grants are usually awarded to those who really show they are serious and well organized.
Safety is undoubtedly the most important consideration for any after school programs. They must ensure that the participants are accounted for at all times. This often involves a sign in sheet so that the staff know who is in attendance. The building or facilities used should also be safe and provide a clean and healthy environment. Students should be able to choose from a variety of activities that will keep them engaged and enthusiastic.
Learning how to start an afterschool care program is a very rewarding experience. The organizers know that they are helping many families in their neighborhood. Kids often report that it is the best part of their day.
Setting up this type of program takes a lot of work and time. Typically a group of concern individuals will get together and form a committee. Meetings are scheduled to establish some of the most basic needs, such as a suitable building and the number of staff that will be required. Local teachers, sports coaches and community leaders should all be involved in the process and have equal input into the decision making.
One of the most important components of good programs is flexibility. They hours and attendance should be on an as needed basis. The children may not need to attend every day, but only when their parents are at work. The hours and activities provided should also be flexible enough to meet all needs. There should be a mixture of sports and games, crafts, classes and educational activities.
Every program costs money and getting enough funds to hire staff, rent a building, pay for insurance and many other things can be an enormous challenge. Many people appeal directly to their local municipality or district to help with costs. There are also donations for the community, both individuals and corporate donations can go a long way. Fund raising will most likely be a big part of the running of a successful organization.
The local parents should be a big part of the planning process. They should be invited to give their thoughts and suggestions to the project. The children themselves should also be able to talk about which activities they would most like to see. Some children really love to be outside playing sports and games, whilst others prefer to read or do crafts. A comprehensive range of activities is very important.
One of the best places to look for funding is the local town or city. They often have grant money available to help fund all or part of a program. The group should ensure that they have a very thorough and complete plan in place before approaching anyone. This will help them to appear professional and create a good first impression. Financial backing is not always easy to find and grants are usually awarded to those who really show they are serious and well organized.
Safety is undoubtedly the most important consideration for any after school programs. They must ensure that the participants are accounted for at all times. This often involves a sign in sheet so that the staff know who is in attendance. The building or facilities used should also be safe and provide a clean and healthy environment. Students should be able to choose from a variety of activities that will keep them engaged and enthusiastic.
Learning how to start an afterschool care program is a very rewarding experience. The organizers know that they are helping many families in their neighborhood. Kids often report that it is the best part of their day.