SIDNEY — When the school day ends, children need opportunities to learn and engage in meaningful activities. Their success out of school can have a positive effect on their success in school. Unfortunately, one in four U.S. children are left unsupervised after 3 p.m., according to Afterschool Alliance, a nonprofit public awareness advocacy organization. To help youth reach their full potential, the Sidney-Shelby County Y Child Development Center is offering afterschool programming that supports social-emotional, cognitive and physical development.
The Y’s afterschool program offers activities in a caring and safe environment where all youth can achieve, feel like they belong and build friendships. Youth in Y afterschool programs demonstrate improvement in the skills needed for successful living and in academic proficiency. As a leading nonprofit committed to youth development, and a pioneer in afterschool programs, the Y believes in supporting the holistic processes that all youth experience – from birth to career – to support success in school and life.
“When the final school bell rings, continued learning opportunities can have a positive influence on how well youth perform in school,” said Elizabeth Grace, director of Child Development, Sidney-Shelby County Y Child Development Center. “Afterschool programs also fill gaps in schools and communities where some recreational opportunities like art, music and physical activity offerings are limited.”
Studies show participation in afterschool programs helps boost school attendance and academic performance and reduces gaps in academic achievement among children from disadvantaged households.
At the Sidney Y Child Development Center’s afterschool program youth receive homework support, tutoring, recreational activities including swimming, character building opportunities and engaging experiences weekly based on the interests of the children. The Y Child Development Center is a Step Up to Quality rated program, ensuring the highest level of care and instruction to support families and youth.
The Sidney Y Child Development Center has adopted a set of Healthy Eating and Physical Activity standards in our afterschool programs that will build a healthier future for our nation’s children by providing healthy environments rich in opportunities for healthy eating and physical activity.
Financial assistance is available to those in need, to ensure every child and teen has the opportunity to learn and grow at the Y.
For more information about the Sidney Y Child Development Center’s afterschool program, contact Grace at 937-498-2273 or [email protected].
