In the United States, 1 in 5 children is unsupervised from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. A quality after school program can turn those hours into a constructive learning opportunity. According to the Afterschool Alliance, a nonprofit organization, 94% of parents report that after school programs help their kids get excited about learning, which leads to improved school performance.
Before and after school programs are especially beneficial in strengthening the social, intellectual, emotional, and physical skills of Pre-K-age students. Florida recognizes the benefits of VPK programs (voluntary Pre-Kindergarten) by providing them to 4- and 5-year-olds at no cost, regardless of family income. When evaluating VPK programs, a family should choose a respected preschool like Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy in Valrico, Florida, which offers much more than daycare programs.
Top Benefits of Before and After School Programs
Children who attend Pre-K programs are more likely to arrive at kindergarten with the skills needed for long-term academic and social achievement. Studies show that after-school programs support everything from increasing a child’s future earning potential to reducing delinquency. Pre-K schools like Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy put young students on the path to success through an evidence-based curriculum that incorporates Pre-K games with Pre-K activities.
The top three benefits of Pre-K programs include:
1. Helps prepare children for kindergarten and later academic success
A child’s brain grows exponentially in the years before kindergarten. A good Pre-K program relies on a Pre-K lesson plan that focuses on essential skills through hands-on learning. A program might combine a Pre-K sight words lesson with a game or art activity to engage a young child fully. Research shows that children who attended high-quality Pre-K programs are:
- More likely to score higher in math and reading tests
- More likely to graduate from high school
- More likely to find employment at well-paying jobs after high school
- Less likely to be arrested or struggle with substance abuse
2. Supports emotional and social development
A child’s emotional and social health is essential for development and learning. Research shows that children with good mental health are more motivated to learn, make stronger friendships, and achieve higher academic performance as they age. A curriculum-based Pre-K program supports social and emotional growth through teaching children to:
- Take turns and share
- Show empathy to classmates
- Regulate strong emotions
- Improve self-confidence
3. Encourages physical development
Physical development also is key to a child’s learning ability. Pre-K programs support the development of fine motor skills that help children write, draw, and type. Learning through play supports whole-body movement to improve coordination and balance. Also, regular exercise through a Pre-K program can:
- Strengthen the brain center that regulates memory
- Improve a child’s test-taking performance
- Boost reading, math, and spelling scores
- Help develop healthy physical and nutritional habits
Looking for a Pre-K Program in Valrico, FL?
Hillsborough County residents who search for “daycares near me” should make sure to select a Pre-K program that focuses on encouraging academic, social, and physical growth through curriculum-based activities and games. Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy, located at 4321 Lynx Paw Trail, Valrico, FL 33596, has years of experience, giving parents confidence that the program will prepare their children for kindergarten and future success.
Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy offers a safe and secure environment that provides:
- Online video monitoring of classrooms
- Innovative and fun accredited programs
- Nutritious meals and snacks
Interested parents should call Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy today at 813-657-6200 or contact the academy online to plan a visit.
