According to the Afterschool Alliance (2020), “School-age children and youth spend 80 percent of their waking hours outside of school, while 1 in 5 young people in the U.S. are alone after the school day ends.” (source)
An after-school care program offers kids and their parents multiple benefits. Here are just a few:
1. Academic Performance
Kids who attend after school care programs experience increased academic performance. Not only do they have plenty of time to complete their homework assignments, but they also have opportunities to learn and engage in new and creative ways.
2. Social Skills
After-school care programs offer various group activities that give kids a chance to meet and interact with new peers outside of school. As a result, kids can practice valuable social skills, like teamwork, responsibility, taking turns, and listening.
3. Physical Activity
Another benefit of an after-school program is additional physical activity. Rather than sedentary time on the couch, kids get plenty of exercise and movement through fun games and activities.
4. Structure and Safety
An after-school program reduces stress and provides parents with peace of mind knowing that their children are safe. The structure and supervision of an after-school program have even shown a reduction in behavioral problems at school and home.
5. Fun and Exploration
Finally, an after-school program allows kids to relax, explore, and have fun. Kids might discover a new activity or interest, pick up a new skill, or burn off extra energy and built-up stress.
P.L.E.X. Kids After School Care provides members a safe, engaging program for students to Play, Learn, Explore & Xercise at the McKendree Metro Rec Plex. Our program follows the O’Fallon District 90 Public School’s calendar and offers full day care options for days the district is off school.
If you’re looking for a safe, engaging environment to motivate and inspire your kids, contact us to learn more about our after-school care or sign up today.
