This fall, children are returning to schools for in-person learning for the first time in a year and a half. That means parents around the country must once again figure out care for their kids after school lets out every day. For some, this means having family members watch children, hiring a nanny or babysitter, or taking off work early to pick your child up yourself. Not everyone has the flexibility, time, or money for some of these options, but afterschool programs provide a safe, convenient alternative that is beneficial for both you and your child. Here are some of the benefits of afterschool programs:

• Help With Homework - Many afterschool programs provide assistance with homework for students who may need help. This ensures that children receive the support they need, fully understand their assignments, and don’t have to figure it all out on their own.
• Social Interactions - Attending an afterschool program also allows your child to interact with their friends and fellow students outside of learning hours. This is helpful for children as they are able to form new friendships, learn how to communicate with both adults and other children, and develop other social skills that wouldn’t be possible if they were at home after school.
• Physical Activity - Afterschool programs often include sports, games, and playtime, so your child can get physical activity while they are waiting to be picked up. This is good for both their physical and mental health as they get an outlet to get moving.
• Positive Behaviors - A major benefit of afterschool programs is that they help encourage positive behaviors in children. After school lets out, some children have no supervision until their parents get home from work, which makes it one of the most common times for kids to get into trouble, including experimenting with drugs, cigarettes, and alcohol. However, afterschool programs provide structure and supervision that help children develop positive behaviors. This results in children performing better academically, staying out of trouble, eating more nutritious snacks, and being healthier overall.

The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Mississippi Delta aim to serve the children in our communities, especially as students return to schools for in-person learning. One of the ways we do this is through our afterschool programs which provide homework help, fitness activities, workforce development, literacy activities, and more. Each of our Clubs provides kids with a safe place to play, learn, exercise, and receive nutritious foods. Find out how you can get involved with our organization by signing your child up for a club or afterschool program, making a donation, or volunteering to help our cause today!