Programs for Students Outside of School Time
Help Outside of School Time
In Ohio, there are programs students can join outside of school time. These programs can be before or after school, and some may be during school breaks. These kinds of programs can provide extra support to students who need help to do better in school, giving them a quiet place to do homework and access a computer and the internet. They also can provide extra help with schoolwork or fun activities that teach new things. In these programs, children can make new friends and learn from others.
Families may need to register their child or meet certain rules. These programs may be free or there may be additional costs. Some even give kids food or help with transportation.
Overview of Programs
After- or Before-school Programs
After- and before-school programs often take place at or close to the school or within the community. The programs encourage children of all ages to improve their academic, social, and emotional skills. Trained individuals help students with their schoolwork and other skills. Sometimes, these programs provide snacks or meals.
Mentoring
Mentoring is when someone helps another person learn new things, which can happen at school or in the community. A mentor is like a teacher or a coach, and they help students with things like schoolwork or learning new skills. Mentors can be adults or other students who are in the same grade or older. Mentoring programs can help children practice their English skills and be more connected to their community. Mentoring develops communication skills and provides extra support and encouragement for kids to feel well in school.
Tutoring
Tutors are like a mentor, but they focus more on academic subjects. They may teach students individually or in groups. Tutoring programs offer students help with homework and school assignments. Some tutoring programs may help with specific subjects like English, math, science, and many others.
Some public libraries have free homework help, tutoring, or other programs for children and families. They may also help students with virtual learning. To find a public library near you, visit the Library Ohio website.
Summer Camps
Summer camps (or summer programs) happen during summer break. They help children learn about different topics and connect with others. Summer camps may focus more on academic, outdoor, or physical activities. Some camps may have camp members stay overnight or go to parks to provide more room for activities and learning about the natural world.
Youth Development Programs
Youth development programs may occur throughout the school year in a community setting. The programs focus on helping children develop skills that they need based on their age.
International Youth Programs
International Youth programs allow students to learn more about their own background, the U.S., and other countries. These programs can help students preserve their background, learn a language, and feel connected to their community.
Internships
Internship programs are usually offered to students in high school. Students get work experience and learn about different career opportunities. These programs may be offered through schools, businesses, or other community organizations. Usually, students must apply and be selected.
Sports Programs
There are various sports teams for students. These teams can be based in the community or at the school.
Volunteer Programs
Volunteer service programs give children and young people the opportunity to have a positive impact in their communities. Volunteers may participate in activities like fundraising, organizing events, teaching, providing mentorship, or working on various projects to meet the program’s objectives. These programs are typically organized by nonprofits, community organizations, schools, or government agencies. They play a crucial role in mobilizing resources and improving the well-being of individuals and communities in need.
How can you find programs for your child?
One place to start is by asking your friends or family members, especially if they have children. You can also ask them if they know of any community organizations that may know about programs. Many programs are offered by community organizations. Community leaders and organizations that work with families like social service agencies, public libraries, churches, and even hospitals may also have information about programs.
You can also learn from your school about what programs are available for your child. If you are not sure where to start, you can ask anyone at your child’s school. At your child’s school, teachers, family liaisons, school social workers, or school counselors may know about different programs available to students.
Visit our organizations list to learn more about programs and community organizations. You can also share this information with teachers and school staff.
What questions could I ask to learn more?
- Where can I go to find out about programs outside of school for my child?
- What types of programs are available outside of school to support my child’s learning?
- Where can I take my child to get help with their homework and assignments?
- How can my child get help with schoolwork? How can my child get help with [insert subject area]?
- What programs help students who are learning English?
- What programs provide information in translation or have interpreters for parents and families?
What should I look for to know whether a program is the best for my child?
You can use this list of questions to help you pick programs for your child.
- Where does this program take place?
- Do you provide transportation? Are there any other transportation options?
- When does the program take place?
- What is the goal of this program?
- How does this program support children’s learning?
- How does this program help students who are learning English?
- Does my child feel welcome and safe in the program? Do my family and I feel comfortable and welcome to the program?
- Do I need to pay for this program? Are there affordable or low-cost options?
- Are the staff responsible and caring?
- Are staff trained to provide support and guidance to students?
- Is the program in a clean and safe location?
- Are the activities age-appropriate?
- Is there enough space for everyone to do the activities?
- Does the program provide access to computers or other equipment my child may need?
- Are snacks or meals provided?
- How often do children need to attend? What happens if my child misses a session?
You can
visit the Colorin Colorado after school program page to learn more.
Registering Your Child for a Program
You can ask someone from the program how to register your child. Some programs may require you to complete forms or provide information about your child or your family. Remember, you can ask for an interpreter or have information translated to your preferred language. If the program is from the school, they are required to provide information to families in their preferred language.
When you register your child:
✓ Confirm when the program takes place.
Say, "Let me be sure I have the information correct. When does the program take place?"
✓ Check if the program is closed for any special holidays or breaks.
Ask, "Is the program closed for any special holidays or breaks?"
✓ Let them know if your child has any allergies or special dietary restrictions.
Say, "My child is allergic to [say what they are allergic to]. My child cannot eat [say what their dietary restrictions are]."
✓ Ask about what you should do if your child is going to be absent.
Ask, "What should I do if my child is going to be absent? Is there someone I should contact or call?"
✓ Check if your child needs to bring special materials or items.
Ask, "Does my child need to bring certain items or materials to participate in the program?"
✓ Save contact information for the program like a phone number, website, or email.
Ask, "Where can I get information for who to contact about this program?"
Additional Resources
Access the
Glossary to learn more about specific terms.
These resources aim to bolster academic, student wellness, and college and career outcomes for Ohio's English Learners. Resources were created through a collaborative effort between the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce and The Ohio State University's Center on Education and Training for Employment along with a dedicated group of family advocates, community leaders, school district staff, and teachers.
Last Modified: 10/25/2024 1:11:18 PM