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A good after-school program will turn the hours after school into periods of productive fun and learning. At a time when many parents are afraid that their children may have been left behind during the pandemic, after-school programs can teach children crucial problem-solving skills, guide them through their STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) journey, develop reading skills, teach children to work together in harmony, and help children associate learning with fun. At their very best, good after-school programs will make a child a happy and devoted lifelong learner. So, to give you an idea of what after-school programs can offer, we will discuss the after-school activities that your kids will love.
The YMCA
An example of fun activities for kids comes from the YMCA in Metropolitan Detroit. The YMCA’s afterschool programs are designed with a focus on academic enhancement, health, safety and social growth. The YMCA doesn’t just offer after-school programs, they also offer before-school programs. They are aimed at kindergartners right through to middle schoolers. Programs are enriched through many activities in order to engage students, get them exploring the world and different subjects, and to nurture their interests and talents. Boys are encouraged to exhibit excellence in their character in every facet of their lives, to be confident, and make good choices. The curriculum of fun activities and running manages to instill these values in boys in a remarkable way.
Girls On the Run and STRIDES
If your child is an energetic child, they may benefit from Girls on the Run or the boy’s program, STRIDE (Success + Teamwork + Respect + Inspiration + Determination = Excellence in Character). These are two signature programs offered by the YMCA.
Girls on the Run aims to inspire girls to be confident, healthy and joyful, by placing them in a fun, experience-based learning environment and educational program, which integrates running. The program’s use of running builds physical activity into education, resulting in transformational physical results. It is aimed at children in the 3rd to 8th grade. The program teaches life skills within interactive and dynamic lessons and through running games. Ultimately, the program develops girls into emotionally and physically prepared athletes who can compete in a celebratory 5K running event. The program aims to give girls confidence by guiding them through definite accomplishments, while also teaching them to appreciate their physical health and the joys of exercise.
STRIDE is a fitness and running program aimed at boys in grades 3 to 5. Boys in the program can share their opinions and thoughts on a variety of life topics in a safe space. The goal is to give them confidence in expressing themselves, learn to listen to their peers, and to develop their character, all the while building their running endurance so they can compete in a 5K.
Many parents are searching for the right after school programs for their children. This article shows some examples of the many programs that children can engage in. They are fun, creative, educational and therapeutic. Children emerge much better human beings than they entered the programs.
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