Benefits of After School Program Activities

There are many opportunities for children to be engaged in wholesome activities after the regular school day is over.  Some children are set on the television or are glued to their phone, computer or other technology. They are not aware that there is a world of knowledge and fun out there where they would feel better sharing with their peers. These are the benefits of after school activities and there are many more. As parents, you and your child can discover these benefits by seeking out a great after school program or out-of-school time (OST) ​programs in Albany, Clifton Park or wherever you live in the Capital Region.
 
How After School Programs Work
Many after school programs exist and you may find several in your area. These programs are operated mainly by community organizations, faith-based institutions and schools. Children have a lot of time on their hands after the school day ends, and this sure needs a little structure to help them turn it into something meaningful. You will find a range of activities to get them actively engaged in one way or another, depending on their age. Here are some of the ways children are engaged in and how they benefit.

Academic Skill-Building – Children are able to build on the academic skills learnt in the regular school system. They get a chance to re-enforce what was learnt during the day school through homework and study sessions. You would not be surprised that children who attend these programs are further ahead academically than those who do not.

Involvement in Physical Activities – After school OST program facilities have plenty of structured sporting and recreational activities for children to pass their time. So whether a child’s interest is in soccer, baseball, games or simply free play, they have opportunities to develop physically and emotionally as they discover their potentials and build confidence. Be mindful also that when they are engaged physically it helps them avoid childhood obesity.

Involvement in Community Service – Children get to join clubs and other social groups where they can explore their special interests. They work with others who share the same talents, interests and values. In joining for example service clubs, they develop the importance of volunteering, helpfulness, caring, and working together. They are often seen offering their services helping with community services. Those who are more artistically inclined will chose to engage in activities that involve dance, art, music and theatre.

Completing Homework – After school providers are a big help in getting children to complete homework, and in a timely manner. Parents who do not have a lot of time to supervise their children’s homework activities benefit greatly. Apart from having a designated homework area where they can focus on their assignments, there are dedicated staff at OST programs to keep children focus and to guide them in getting the work done.

Handling Difficult Subject Matter – Children who are struggling with a subject often become better at it. By having an expert to help them grasp the concepts better, and by becoming more focused in a different study environment, they develop greater confidence in doing their work. The opportunity to work with their peers also helps them handle challenging subjects.
 
Developing Social Skills – Children develop abilities to relate to others. This happens through sharing with their peers and developing wholesome adult communication and relationships in afterschool activities. They learn to respect and value others for who they are.
 
Engaging in Activities that Build Self Esteem – Many children are not very confident in expressing themselves. Being in large classes at school worsens the problem too. Being involved, however, in smaller group settings in afterschool lift their self-esteem so they become more open with their peers and with the adults they interact with.
 
Developing Leadership Skills – These are the programs that draw out the skills to lead others. When children engage in community projects, their planning and organizing skills unfold and soon others are looking to them to lead the pack. Out-of-school time program organizers can also depend on them for support and help with monitoring program activities. They develop skills such as initiative, cooperation and decision-making that will be important in their adult years.
 
The ideal situation for many families is to be able to spend a lot more quality time with their kids. However, with full time work this is impossible. After school activities have come to the rescue and everybody benefits, especially your children.

If you have questions about these programs or general child care programs in the local area, please reach out to TSL Adventures.