The after-school class is made up of children ages five (5) to twelve (12) years of age who are attending public or private school. The after-school classroom operates only during the school year.
The daily schedule is planned to include at least three activities per day and quiet times, large and small muscle activities, and child-initiated activities and is posted in the classroom. Activities may include: writing, books, computer, manipulative activities, blocks, dramatic play, art, and science. Learning centers provide opportunities for the children to have choices and to actively explore the environment using a variety of materials.
Project-Based Learning & Hands-On Activities
Most activities are in the form of hands-on play activities. Music, art, homework time, literature, language development, science, and math concepts are woven into the after-school program. Children are involved in various projects of particular interest to them. These projects are a cooperative group effort, but the children participate at their own level and are encouraged to progress as far as they can. It is through project work that children learn the many concepts and skills needed for continued development. Projects provide the opportunity for children to use skills to solve real problems. It is the teacher’s responsibility to provide the right materials, to ask the right questions, and to assist in documenting the project’s progression. The children share their many wonderful ideas and do most of the actual “work”.
Parents in the Classroom
The teaching staff will put much effort into documenting the work of the children for you to see. You will want to look around the classroom each day for evidence of your child’s activities. This will not only help you to better understand the work that your child has done that day, but will give you ideas of questions to ask and ways to reinforce the learning at home. Parents are encouraged to participate in the projects by providing materials, and supplies, or by volunteering in the classroom.