Afterschool programs give children the opportunity to thrive in an environment that encourages exploration and creative expression. They provide inspiring and enriching activities that the kids can’t get elsewhere. Afterschool programs allow children to discover their potential and uncover their interests and be a part of his/her own community. Afterschool is not school and it is not babysitting, it is a structured and resourceful environment that invests in a child’s development – from social emotional development, to better understanding of their interests and goals, to identifying their likes and dislikes, to valuing team efforts and taking chances in a safe environment where they are mentored and encouraged.

The Office of Child Development sees the value in quality afterschool programs. The School Age Care program at the Office of Child Development helps afterschool programs achieve their goals and improve or maintain quality. Areas where technical assistance can be provided include, but are not limited to:

• Curriculum Development
• Child & Program Assessment
• Behavioral Challenges
• Staff Supervision
• Leadership and Management
• Family & Community involvement
• Interaction, Relationship building
• Health and Safety Concerns

In addition to technical assistance, the SAC Program provides a comprehensive calendar of professional development opportunities designed specifically for School Age practitioners and administrators. We also have an extensive collection of school-age resources available to practitioners through a resource lending library.

It takes a community to raise a child. Afterschool programs help foster that community.