Meeting the challenge of after-school care
Children have fun while they learn by doing during a 4-H Afterschool program. Photo by Wayne Brabender
4-H Afterschool programs address these concerns by partnering with schools and community organizations to provide safe, healthy, enriching after-school activities that enable youth to have fun while developing valuable lifelong skills.
Almost 2,000 youth participate in 4-H Afterschool programs that among other things promote leadership development. Youth in these programs show improved communication, decision-making, teamwork and other life skills.
4-H professionals help after-school staff build community partnerships based on principles of positive youth development.
The After the Bell program provides middle-school youth the opportunity to participate in enrichment activities through the support of community organizations, businesses, Merrill Area Public Schools and University of Wisconsin-Extension Lincoln County 4-H Youth Development.
One parent says, "Thank you for all you do to make After the Bell enjoyable and engaging for kids. It's the most difficult time of the day for kids. They're tired, hungry and antsy. You provide a way to meet their needs in a positive way." — Lorre Kolb
For more information: 4-H Experiential Learning Specialist Kathi Vos, kathi.vos@ces.uwex.edu, (608) 262-2496