|
Although
the current school year is just nearing an end, it's not too early
for parents to start thinking about their child care options for
next year. The traditional school day takes up the bulk of weekdays,
but what about the hours between the time when your children step
off the bus and when you arrive home from work? This is a critical
issue as more and more parents join the workforce.
Research
has shown that latchkey children-those children who spend time in
the early morning and afternoons caring for themselves-experience
increased feelings of loneliness, fear, and boredom, and are more
likely to succumb to peer pressure. These findings reinforce the
importance of good after school programs.
But what
should parents look for? Children benefit from after school programs
that:
- Celebrate the whole child and promote cognitive, social, emotional
and physical development
- Realize the child's need for both play and rest time after
school
- Foster relationships with parents
- Give homework support
- Focus on building confidence and independence
- Provide healthy interactions with peers
St.
Joseph's Villa
Helping children, families and our community since
1834
|
