October 9, 2008
Opportunity For Parents To Learn About
The Benefits of After School Programs
According to Afterschool Alliance, more than 28 million children in the United States have parents who work outside the home, and over 14 million children are on their own after school.
Parents will have an opportunity on October 16 to learn how well-structured after school programs in Hampton can have a positive impact on academic achievement, social development, healthy lifestyles, and prevention outcomes for youth and teens.
"Lights On After School" will be an early evening event that will inform parents about the benefits of after school programs and how they help ensure that children are safe and productive after the school day ends.
For parents whose children are already enrolled in after school programs, the October 16 event is an opportunity to learn more about the recreational and academic activities provided to children each day. For parents who are considering after school programs, it is an opportunity to learn about the benefits they bring to the city's youth.
The event will take place on October 16 from 5:30 to 7:30 pm at the Northampton Community Center, 1435-A Todds Lane in Hampton. Parents and children are invited.
Close to 1,800 children and youth are enrolled in the City of Hampton's after school programs, administered by the Parks and Recreation Department. Many of the program leaders and aids work as teachers' assistants in the school system during the day, and are often familiar with each child's particular needs.
In attendance at the October 16 event will be Hampton's 21st Century Community Learning Centers -- a grant-funded No Child Left Behind tutorial assistance endeavor that reaches children in many of the city's after school sites as well as some after school programs administered by non-profit and private entities.
21st Century has had continuing results in Hampton. In the last 3 years, the Standards of Learning pass rate among students who have worked with 21st Century has risen from 71 percent to 81 percent.
Information will also be available to parents about a national study by the Harvard Family Research Project which notes that participation in after school programs is often associated with better school attendance, improved academic performance, and lower-dropout rates; decreased behavioral problems and increased self-esteem; greater avoidance of drugs and alcohol use, and increased knowledge of safe sex; and increased physical activity and knowledge of nutrition.
The October 16 event will also include games and activities, giving parents a sense of the well-rounded approach to helping children become successful adults.
Hampton Mayor Molly Joseph Ward will offer a City Proclamation recognizing that quality after school programs promote positive relationships among children, youth, families and adults.
There will also be a drawing for complimentary after school care as well as other prizes.
The event is sponsored by the City of Hampton Parks and Recreation Department, 21st Century Community Learning Centers, Hampton City Schools, In-SYNC Partnerships, and Afterschool Alliance, a non-profit organization dedicated to ensuring that all children have access to quality affordable after school programs.