Choose the right after-school program
From Robin McClure

Now that your child has started school, choosing a quality after-school care program can have a tremendous impact on academics, selfesteem and overall happiness and adjustment. So, what type of program is best for your kid? Here are some questions to consider when making this important decision.

* Does your child's school offer on-site after-school care? For many parents, this option is the most practical and simple, as no additional transportation is involved. In many instances, the child simply goes to the school's cafeteria, which is transformed into an after-care setting complete with activity stations, snacks, homework corners, activities and outdoor play. But, for some, this option doesn't provide the extra enrichment options or "fun index" many kids need and crave, so be sure to do your research.

* Do local daycares offer bus pick-up from your child's school? Many daycares specialize in after-school care, and some have even gone so far to woo parents and school-age children by building special "after-school" buildings that are separate from the regular daycare program.

Playsets are built for older kids; lockers are included; snack, music and activities are age-appropriate; and the "fun index" is definitely built in. Kids meet at the daycare pick-up station at a school (if its offered), which then takes them safely and directly to the care setting. Some programs even entice parents by offering enrichment activities such as dance classes, sports camp, tutorials and other enrichment opportunities that time-pressed parents may struggle to build into their schedule.

* Are there options for neighbor after-school care? Some parents with kids close in age alternate after-school pickup and care to allow other parents time to work, pick up other children, or run essential errands. The rotation is set with a schedule, and the parent-in-charge provides a snack and goes through backpacks and starts any homework lessons. If all parents in the arrangement agree to the rules and cooperate fully, this can be an attractive option.

* Do you have family members nearby who can help out? For many families, relatives nearby are not an after-school option, but for some, this can be a relationship-building and cost-saving option. The downside to this option, however, is that children thrive on social interaction with their peers, and after-school settings with friends may be their only true time in the day to really just "hang out" and play.