Soon Georgia children will be heading back to school, driving many working families to find a safe and engaging afterschool program. Quality Care for Children (QCC), an Atlanta-based non-profit organization working to improve accessibility and quality of care in child care programs across Georgia, understands that the time children spend outside of school is just as critical to their development as the time spent in school. 

QCC offers parents a free and easy-to-use resource with 1-877-ALL-GA-KIDS (877-255-4254) and www.AllGaKids.org to help them find a high-quality afterschool program that fits their needs, in their area. 

Multiple research studies validate that high-quality afterschool programs can generate positive outcomes for school aged children and parents alike. Students in quality out-of-school programming that complements their school environment show increased success in academics, more participatory and less disruptive classroom behavior, and even more awareness for better health and nutrition. Researchers also have found that parents miss an average of five days of work per year due to lack of afterschool care. 

“For many children, the gap between the end of the school day and when their parents get home from work is between 20 to 25 hours per week,” said Pam Tatum, chief executive officer for Quality Care for Children. “Those hours in the afternoon are just as important as their time in school, and parents need to know that their children are safe and receiving the support they need -- such as help with homework, a nutritious snack and some free play -- during that time.”

QCC encourages parents to begin planning for their afterschool needs well in advance of the first day of school.  Parents can find an Afterschool Checklist at www.QualityCareforChildren.org/tools-for-parents-find-child-care with questions and tips parents should consider when selecting an afterschool program.  The checklist includes information such as:

• Visit the program and see firsthand how the staff and children interact:  do you hear laughter and lively conversation?
• Are the children engaged or walking around aimlessly?
• Ask questions regarding the daily schedule: is there dedicated time for homework and someone who can help if the child needs it?
• If not part of the afterschool program at the child’s school, determine the details of a transportation plan to get the child to the afterschool program.
• Is the program licensed and accredited, and held to national standards?
• Does the program seem safe, clean and organized? 
• What kind of snack does the program provide and is it plentiful?