Some kids have opportunities to have after school programs.
While many of these are suffering from the economy with limited funding, these types of after school programs really are good for kids.
Learn what advantages these types of programs have for children who are part of them.
The first thing is that many children might not have two parents at home or may lack proper role models.
There are many times in after school programs that the child can interact with a role model that is not necessarily a teacher.
These types of relationships can help the child build confidence.
For some with one parent at home, it gives them interacting with more adults of both genders to have a better understanding of who people are.
Another practical advantage is that most parents work later than the children goes to school.
This gives the child something to do during the hours between school being out and the parent coming and picking them up.
For parents this takes away some worry.
Some school districts have had to cut physical education because of funding issues.
With after school programs there is normally some exercise involved whether it basic recess type activities or organized sports.
This helps kids get extra exercise that they might otherwise not get.
Another practical advantage is that it helps kids from getting involved in poor activities.
While most would think that kids get in trouble in the later hours of the day or weekend, most actually have problems between the time school is out and their parents come home.
These types of programs keep kids occupied so that other activities don't take place that are not beneficial especially violent ones.
If there are after school programs struggling in your area, consider donating some money to help keep these open since they do have real advantages.