Is Boys and Girls an After Care Program? Exploring Co-ed After-School Enrichment

The Boys & Girls Club “Kids Club” after-school program exemplifies the benefits of a co-ed approach. Recognized consistently as ‘better’ or ‘much better’ than similar programs in Mercer County, this state-licensed program prioritizes creating a safe and nurturing space for all children. The core focus revolves around key developmental areas: educational support, social-emotional learning, character building, and healthy living. By integrating homework assistance with a wide array of enrichment activities, the program ensures a well-rounded experience for every child.

Here’s a glimpse into the diverse activities offered within a typical co-ed after-care setting like the “Kids Club”:

  • Dedicated Homework Support: Ensuring children have a structured time and assistance to complete their school assignments.
  • Nutritious Snacks: Providing healthy snacks to refuel energy levels after a day of learning.
  • Reading and Language Arts Enrichment: Activities designed to boost literacy skills and foster a love for reading.
  • Engaging Enrichment Programs: A rotating schedule of programs encompassing Art, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math), Cooking, and various Sports to cater to diverse interests.
  • Special Interest Clubs: Allowing children to delve deeper into specific passions and hobbies through focused club activities.
  • Social-Emotional Learning and Healthy Living Curriculum: Equipping children with essential life skills, promoting emotional intelligence, and encouraging healthy habits.
  • Access to Schoology Learning Management System: Offering 24/7 online access to program resources and learning materials, extending the learning beyond program hours.

For parents considering the Boys & Girls Club “Kids Club”, or similar co-ed after-school programs, registration and further information are readily available.

For Information & Registration:

Denise Brannon-Eutsey, Membership Director
[email protected]
(609) 695-6060 ext 202

Ready to Register? Click Below:

Membership Application 2024-2025

For employment inquiries or specialized questions about the program, you can reach out to:

Christina Jones, Director of Operations
[email protected]
609-695-6060 ext. 220

Practical Program Details for Parents:

The “Kids Club” operates every full school day from school dismissal until 6:00 PM, providing consistent care during standard school hours. It’s important to note that after-care is not available on early dismissal days. However, for school holidays, the Boys & Girls Club often hosts a full-day holiday camp at their Spruce Street Community Center, offering continued care and fun activities during school breaks. Details about holiday camp programs are communicated to parents in advance. The program year typically kicks off with the start of the school year, beginning on September 5th.

Convenient Program Locations:

The Boys & Girls Club “Kids Club” program is accessible at various school locations:

  • Antheil School
  • Lore School
  • Parkway School
  • Fisher Middle School students are provided transportation to the Spruce Street Community Center to engage with other middle schoolers in a dedicated environment.

Understanding Program Fees:

Participation in the “Kids Club” after-school program involves an annual membership fee of $30.00 for all participants. Monthly tuition rates are structured based on the number of days per week a child attends:

  • 5 days per week: $235
  • 4 days per week: $175
  • 3 days per week: $145
  • 2 days per week: $80

These affordable monthly rates are made possible through subsidies from government and private funding, ensuring accessibility for families. Furthermore, scholarships are readily available for families with financial needs, and applications can be accessed here: Scholarship Application 2024-2025 School Year. The program also accepts Child Care Connections and WFD child care vouchers, further assisting families in managing childcare costs. For scholarship and voucher applications, paper registration through the membership office is required. A daily drop-in rate of $25 is offered, subject to membership, registration completion, and daily availability coordination with the school site coordinator.

Hear from Parents:

The positive impact of the Boys & Girls Club After School Program is echoed by parents:

“My son loves the After School Program (ASP) and is excited to be part of it. He loves the program so much that he always tells me that I come too early to pick him up. The best part of the program is the staff that makes sure they have a personal connection with parents and children. They are aware of where the children are at all times. The STEM program has helped keep my son sharp in math and the science areas. This is the best investment that I have made thus far for my son.” – Tangela W, After School Program Parent

“Our daughter loves it so much that she never wants to go home. She wishes it was an overnight program.” – Olga Carillo-Martinez

“After searching high and low for a program that fits our needs, we decided on the ASP at Boys & Girls Club. My son started in September and absolutely loves it! The staff is great, the building is in impeccable condition and the list of programs and classes they do with them throughout the school year is amazing. Looking forward to the upcoming programs and what it entails for our youth.” – Dana H., After School Program Parent

A Legacy of Quality After-School Care:

The Boys & Girls Club, as a nationally recognized organization, brings over 20 years of experience in providing state-licensed after-school care locally within Mercer County. Operating across 10 after-school locations, their curriculum follows 12-week program cycles (Fall, Winter, Spring), ensuring fresh and engaging activities throughout the school year. Professional, adult staff, many with state certifications and extensive experience, lead activities with a ratio of 15 students per group, guaranteeing quality supervision and instruction.

In conclusion, co-ed after-care programs, especially those run by established organizations like the Boys & Girls Club, offer a valuable and enriching extension to the school day. They provide a safe, structured, and fun environment where boys and girls can learn, grow, and thrive together. For parents seeking a high-quality after-school solution, the “Kids Club” and similar programs represent an excellent choice.

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