Why are after-school programs so important?
After-school programs benefit children by offering an outlet for children to foster their creativity; they also are a good place for children to establish new friendships. For some low-income neighborhoods, after-school programs are especially important because they serve as a safe haven from negative influence.Educational AdvancementChildren need after-school programs because the programs often supplement the education children receive in school. This is particularly true of tutoring programs. The tutors give children new ways of learning their material, and the children benefit from the encouragement tutors provide.Builds Social SkillsAn important part of a child’s development is having healthy social skills, and after-school programs help develop this. For example, when a program participant takes painting lessons with fellow participants, she builds new friendships through this new skill while learning values of teamwork, integrity, selflessness and how to encourage others.Promotes
