After school Programs That Work

We live in a day and time when two incomes make life a lot easier than not. Because of our obligations to our families, not only do we need to generate an income to care for our families but after school care as well. If you happen to be a single parent, that responsibility becomes a little harder. You cannot be an effective employee or parent without proper rest. One of the ways to do that is with after school programs. That is not to say that we as parents are not doing our part but we do need help. Kids like their parents do need an unwind time; and finding the right programs for them not only helps them to release some of their pent up energy but gives us our wind down time as well.

It's not about getting kids out of our hair and just sending them out into an after-school program or playground that does not help to groom their young minds. I want my little sponge to absorb and learn all there is about the thing or things that hold their attentions. The young minds today are the leaders tomorrow.

These are but a few of the things that are catching our children's attention. You may be surprised to know that they are looking for things to do that does not always end with a swing set.

According to Parent and Child magazine (November 2013), USA Archery memberships have increased by 25%. The Hunger Games (movie) is given credit for this spike in interest. Playgrounds, backyards, and parks are becoming seeded with these little archers; but does it teach them anything?

Michael Usherenko (Archery coach) says that "Archery helps to develop attention span. By it's nature, it demands focus and concentration, which can help kids do better in school."

Starting age 6 for group classes.

Cost can range from $200 to $600 for a 12 week course.

http://www.teamusa.org/usa-archery

Kids love to imitate the things that they see. I remember watching Star Wars with my son and his constant asking for a light saber. Sword play is another one of those games that holds a child's attention. Kid participation in fencing has doubled in the last decade according to Seth Kelsey, director of USA Fencing.

According to Mr. Kelsey " you can never predict what your opponent can do, so you have to be able to adapt quickly and make adjustments. Concentration and focus are also key to maintaining composure under pressure."

Starting ages 9 - 11

Cost ranges from $80 to $120 a month for bi-weekly classes (with equipment).

http://www.usfencing.org/

Chess is a board game that children are becoming more and more familiar with everyday. Parents are receiving the credit for the encouragement of this one. Parents that are familiar with Chess know that it teaches analytical skills.

Cost can range $10 to $60 an hour depending on location and class size. Also check out your local library or recreational centers that may be offering free lessons.

Starting age 5 or 6

http://uschess.org/

I started my son and daughter off cooking when they first peeked interest in it. We would start off with small things but my daughter's interest and dedication to cooking grew very fast. The first food she learned to cook was a scrambled egg and she was about three years old at the time.

According to the Parent and Child magazine "it's almost never too soon to start". Early exposure leads to a love of healthier foods.

Cost varies by locations. Young chef academy charges $25 to $35 a class. There may be free or more reasonably priced classes at the library or recreation center in your area.

Starting age 2

http://youngchefsacademy.com/

Junior golfers are rising up everywhere. Joshua Jacobs, founder of TGA Premier Junior Golf says "Golf is the only sport that requires you to call a penalty on yourself. it's nearly impossible to play without developing integrity. You shake hands with your opponents before the first tee and at the 18th hole which builds sportsmanship."

Cost can range from $80 to $150 including equipment, 6 to 10 weeks after school.

Ages 6 to 8

http://playtga.com/

Placing our children in a program that not only teaches them skills but expand their minds as well is a very valuable thing to have. Our children are our future, let us make sure that we put the right stuff in them.

Referenced:

Scholastic Child & Parent magazine, November 2013

photo's source: Pictures.com