Afterschool programs are increasingly viewed as one viable way of bridging the gap between the end of the school day and the time parents get home from work. This digest briefly discusses why afterschool programs are needed, what potential benefits may be, what challenges may affect the viability of programs, what factors are identified with high-quality programs, and what policy issues need to be addressed. Afterschool programs are needed because there are many risks associated with leaving children and youth unsupervised during afterschool hours. Several studies have found a number of benefits result from participation in high-quality afterschool programs, including better grades, work habits, emotional adjustment, and peer relations. The biggest challenges facing the viability of afterschool programs are related to staffing, funding, and transportation. It is generally agreed that retaining skilled staff is a key in the success of afterschool programs. To date, there has been little systematic and conclusive research on afterschool programs, and policy issues are not fully developed in most communities. (WFA)
