More and more parents are turning to after school child care than ever before. More families have two working parents, or separated couples are experiencing the challenges of being a working single parent. While many jobs keep parents busy until 5:00 or 6:00 p.m., most schools dismiss kids around 3:00, sometimes even earlier. So what happens in those few hours between when your child is out of school and when you get home from work? Most likely, a lot of worry about where your child is, who they’re hanging out with, and if they’ll make it home on time. Thankfully, with a successful after school program like Just For Kids, you know your child will always be safe, having fun, and learning the vital skills they need for success. Today, we wanted to take a moment to outline just a few of the many proven benefits your child can experience in a before and after school program.

Improved Emotional and Social Behavior

At a quality after school care program like we offer at Just For Kids, your children will be surrounded by positive adult role models who are invested in their growth and development. We help to instill a good work ethic by encouraging a “homework first” environment, as well as offering activities that will suit the interests of all children, from field trips to cheerleading to karaoke to an open-court gym. Just For Kids is a great way for kids to interact with students from other schools and meet new friends, and learn valuable social skills for interacting with children and adults. A study published by the Boys and Girls Club found that students who participate in an after school program showed less aggression, better control of emotions, and less shyness. These programs help children to come out of their shells, and encourage positive self-esteem.

Higher Test Scores

Researchers have found that nearly half of students participating in an afterschool program showed improved reading and math skills, and that the more regularly a student attends the program, the more likely they are to show those academic improvements. Another study that researched 3,000 low-income students found that those who were enrolled in daily after school care performed significantly better on standardized tests and showed better work ethic.

Less Risky Behavior

As children get older, they begin to be exposed to drugs, alcohol, and sexual activity – sometimes as early as middle school. An afterschool program is the perfect place to keep kids out of trouble while you’re at work. In fact, several studies have shown that participating in an after school program reduces drug use among youth, as well as criminal behavior. Another study done by the YMCA found that teens who do not participate in an afterschool program are three times more likely to skip class, use drugs and drink alcohol, and engage in sexual activity.

Better For Businesses

Studies have shown that parents miss an average of eight work days per year simply due to concern about their children’s after school care. Additionally, a survey showed that three-quarters of parents reported being significantly less worried about their children’s safety after enrolling them in an after school program. Less worry means you can focus more on work tasks knowing that your child is in good hands.

Benefits Of Afterschool Care Follow Students

The benefits of an afterschool program don’t stop when a child stops attending. A study by the Afterschool Alliance showed that 9th grade students, who had attended after school programs in middle school, had higher daily attendance than those who did not. Additionally, 92 percent of ninth graders who attended an after school program were promoted to tenth grade on time – which is the key indicator on whether or not a student will drop out of school. Being in an after school program can also encourage leadership skills as kids grow up. In particular, a study by the Boys and Girls Club showed that 82% of students who participated in an after school program took on leadership roles in high school such as student council or being an office aid.

Choose Just For Kids For Your Chicago After School Program

We currently have open enrollment for our after school program. Schedule a visit to our facilities or give us a call to find out more about our before and after school program with roundtrip transportation for busy parents.