|
CINCINNATI
(August 18, 2008)—With back-to-school
season at hand, many working parents are searching for quality,
educational after-school programs. But what should a parent look
for when choosing after-school care? 4C, this area's leading child
care resource and referral agency, offers tips, checklists and free
referrals to busy parents looking for the best after-school care
for their children.
"Planning
a child's after-school care is just as important to a child's success
as choosing the right school," says Megan Wilson, 4C after-school
specialist. "The right after-school experience helps boost
a child's self-esteem and self-confidence, and helps children to
grow socially, emotionally and physically."
4C offers
parents this checklist of what to look for when choosing a quality
after-school program:
- Staff are
energetic and maintain a safe environment, while being flexible
and fun.
- Low staff-to-child
ratios that allow for quality individual attention and small groups.
- Schedules
and lesson plans posted with a balance of innovative activities
that are both staff- and child-initiated.
- A variety
of activities that include group games, arts and crafts, sports
and dramatic play.
- An environment
that is safe, clean and stocked with age-appropriate materials.
- Snacks that
are well-balanced and nutritious.
Here are
a few red flags or warning signs to watch for:
- Program
does not encourage parents to observe.
- Children
are moving about for 30 minutes or more without staff interaction
or activities.
- Staff spends
most of their time scolding or controlling children.
"When
you visit a good program," Wilson adds, "you should see
happy, engaged children."
For help in
finding after-school care, parents can call 4C at 513-221-0033 in
Southwest Ohio, 859-781-3511 in Northern Kentucky or 937-220-9660
in the Miami Valley. Parent counselors are available to offer free
assistance in finding a program that fits individual needs.
4C, this area's
child care resource and referral agency, serves a 23-county area
in Southwest Ohio, the Miami Valley and Northern Kentucky. Funding
is provided in part by United Way, the City of Cincinnati, the Ohio
Department of Job and Family Services and the Kentucky Cabinet for
Health and Family Services, Division of Child Care. Visit www.4CforChildren.org
or call 513-221-0033 for more information.
#
# #
|
