Guide to Excellent School-Aged Programs

Do you run a before or after-school program for older children? This guide covers top-quality school-aged programs. School age programs at childcare centers are increasingly popular options for families needing flexible care. It includes five key elements of excellent programs for older kids. Use it to identify your program’s strengths and weaknesses. Then you can improve your model of care.

Why These Five Components Matter

The five key components below support a solid foundation of care for older children. They meet needs across all areas of child development: physical, social/emotional, cognitive, and language.

Building on Early Childhood Excellence

Many qualities of excellent infant, toddler, and preschool programs also apply to school-aged care. These include:

• Adherence to health and safety standards

• Educated, trained, and background-checked staff

• Passionate team members

• Quality facilities that enhance the childcare setting

You can read more about these qualities in our “Guide to High-Quality Infant and Toddler Programs” and “Guide to Stand-Out Preschool Programs”.

School-aged programs should also excel in the following areas to best meet older kids’ needs.

Program Provides Help with Homework, Tutoring, and Other Learning Activities

After-school programs should provide academic support where needed. This includes homework help and tutoring from trained staff. When children get a head-start on homework during afterschool care, families gain more quality time together. Parents and children can spend valuable time reading, playing, and bonding after homework is done.

Program Provides Time and Space for Quiet Study

After-school programs should provide time and space for independent study. This should match each child’s age, grade, and needs. Moderated quiet times and supervised study areas help children concentrate. These spaces are also valuable for rest and quiet activities like reading. Introverted children can use them to recharge.

Program Helps Children Develop Personal and Interpersonal Skills

Structured activities and guidance from caring adults help older children grow. Kids develop their own interests, skills, and personhood. They also build social skills as they interact with peers. Support from teachers instills confidence. Positive exchanges with other children enhance social development. The program should emphasize respect for differences and cultural diversity.

Program Offers Engaging Physical Activities

Children need to release pent-up energy after a long day in the classroom. Fun after-school games and physical activities provide a great outlet. Group games, sports, and other activities help children:

• Burn off energy

• Have fun

• Learn teamwork and cooperation

• Enjoy a positive afterschool experience

Programs should emphasize safety, following rules, and listening to staff members in charge.

Program Provides a Balance of Indoor and Outdoor Play

Quality school-aged programs offer the right mix of indoor and outdoor play. Indoor activities may include academic support, reading, arts and crafts, music, and dance. Outdoor activities may include sports, physical games, playground time, bubbles, and sidewalk chalk.

Evaluate and Improve Your Program

We hope this guide helps you evaluate your school-aged program. Note where improvements can be made. Then you can provide the best care possible for older children in your community.

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