From Homework Help to Life Skills The Benefits of After-School Care BY REBECCA FAST . PHOTOS PROVIDED. For many families, afterschool activities and programs are essential — offering a safe, supervised place for children between the end of the school day and when a parent or guardian can pick them up. But the value goes far beyond simply having somewhere to be. These programs can help kids tackle homework, discover new skills or hobbies, and find a creative and social outlet. Less obvious are the intangible gains: stronger social-emotional development and healthier behavioral habits — and research has consistently confirmed these advantages. A landmark longitudinal study led by Dr. Deborah Vandell of the University of California, Irvine, followed a large group of young people over 26 years, examining how various environments — family, early education, schools, neighborhoods, and after-school settings — shape educational, health, and career outcomes. The results were significant. As adults, those who had participated in after-school programs were more likely to graduate and pursue higher education, tended to earn more and land better jobs, and showed greater engagement in their communities. These findings support decades of research confirming the positive impact of after-school participation across all ages, from elementary school through high school. To find the right after-school program for your child, explore these great options or browse Metro Family’s online directory of local programs. YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City As the Metro’s largest provider of school-aged childcare, the YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City offers Before- and After-School Care that focuses on help with homework, STEAM activities, group games, social and emotional development, character development and more. Year-round care is also available. To learn more, visit ymcaokc.org/ before-after-school-care. Boys & Girls Clubs of Oklahoma County For 30 years, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Oklahoma County has provided children and youth with after-school and out-of-school care at its many youth centers. All programming is designed to foster a sense of belonging, competence, usefulness and influence as well self- confidence and self-esteem. To learn more, visit bgcokc.org.
Metropolitan Library System The Metropolitan Library System offers a wide variety of after-school activities and clubs involving coding, STEM, art, gaming, fashion, books and more. Most programs are free and with so many unique activities, there’s something for children of all ages. To learn more, visit metrolibrary.org and check out their calendar of events. OKC PAL (Police Athletic League) The OKC PAL program is committed to providing positive opportunities for children and youth and to foster better relationships between youth and police officers. The program offers after-school mentoring and martial arts programs, as well as middle school sports leagues, which take place after school and on weekends during the respective seasons. To learn more, visit okcpal.org. Urban League of Oklahoma City The Urban League of Oklahoma City provides an After School STEM Reading Center for students in Pre-K through sixth grade. The program offers a supported learning environment that promotes social, emotional and academic development. To learn more, visit urbanleagueok.org. Children’s Learning Adventure Along with its day care and early childhood education options, Children’s Learning Adventure offers Before-and-After-School programs as well as summer and holiday camps. All programs provide an enriching curriculum supporting educational and social development. To learn more, visit childrenslearningadventure.com. La Petite Academy La Petite Academy provides a wide range of early childhood education opportunities as well as Before & After-School programs. Children will participate in STEM activities, outdoor playtime, homework help, creative projects, and group activities. To learn more, visit lapetite.com.
48 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / JULY-AUGUST 2026
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