Programs for School-Age Children Chapter 29
School Age Child-Care Growing trend due to working parents More single parent families Latch-key children 12 years of age is legal by law to be left alone Lack of supervision-----Problems Positive outcomes when quality childcare is provided
What is Quality? Low adult-child ratio Caring, well trained staff Organized with variety of play, quiet, active and centers of interest Curriculum Parent involvement Flexible scheduling to allow a balance of individual, small group and large group activities
Types of Programs For profit-provide care and transportation Nonprofit-YMCA, United Way & Salvation Army Program models-3 types Child centered-allows self selected activities Adult centered-high degree of adult direction Unit based-revolves around themes
Adult Child Ratios Must be able to get adult help when they need it Assistance with homework Adults serve as role models and provide emotional support and encouragement Constant supervision-to gain information about interests, needs and abilities of children
Characteristics of Staff Facilitators-lead discussions, activities Use positive guidance-consequences for unacceptable behavior Involve children-let them help but provide limits Promote Respect for Cultural Diversity-talk about other cultures make children aware Physical Activities
The Environment A quality school age environment should provide appropriate space, materials and equipment. All of which should reflect the children’s interests, ages, abilities and needs. 35 square feet available to each child Interest Centers QUIET areas Open areas
Planning curriculum Assessing Interest-What are children interested in? Interviews-get acquainted Group discussions-Hobbies, sports, activities etc…. Self-reports-All about me Surveys Group Planning Sessions
Scheduling Arrival and departure Mealtimes Rest Time Activity Time Balance Activities-recreational as well as academic, more recreation depending on hours Group Activities-competitions, older help younger Clean Up
Objectives Describe the three basic program models used in school age child care Identify the characteristics of an effective teacher in a school age child care program Discuss how to arrange indoor-outdoor areas explain