If you are a parent who does not want your tween walking home to an empty house after school, then you know the need for after school care is important. In fact, it has grown, and there are now many programs to choose from that fit your work schedule and your tween's taste in activities.

Daycare Centers

Many daycares are now offering after school programs for children from about kindergarten through fifth grade. In most cases tuition is based on a weekly rate. Daycares will pick the children up from school in a designated bus and transport them to the daycare center. This is approved by the school. There, they will offer supervision, after school snacks, and activities until about 6:30. Most of the larger daycare centers do offer such as program, as well as neighborhood centers.

School Sponsored Extended Day Programs

Another good choice for after school programs are school or district sponsored "extended day" programs. These are wonderful options because they are generally less expensive than daycare centers. In addition, they are often perfect because children do not have to be transported to another location. They simply check in at the school cafeteria or gym. Most "extended day" programs offer snacks, activities, and help with homework.