The Importance of After-School Programs and How to Find a Good One

Why After-School Programs Matter

The benefits of after-school programs are impactful and wide-ranging:

• They keep kids safe: After-school offerings help communities see less juvenile crime during after-school hours.

• They accelerate learning: Students who participate regularly post higher grades in math, English, and science and are less likely to drop out. 

• They build life skills: Teamwork, conflict resolution and communication are woven into everything from robotics clubs to basketball drills. Communities reap long-term benefits as graduates enter the workforce with stronger skills and higher earning potential.

• They support working families: Affordable programs help parents keep their jobs, empowering their communities and promoting financial wellness for families.

What Quality Looks Like: Spotting a Good After-School Program

Parents often ask how to tell a great program from an average one. You can start by looking for these hallmarks:

• Safe, licensed space with clear check-in/out procedures and background-checked staff.

• Low adult-to-student ratios.

• Trained, consistent staff who model respectful behavior and receive ongoing professional development.

• Varied, youth-driven activities — such as arts, STEM and sports — so students can choose what excites them.

• Dedicated homework help in a quiet area with access to supplies and technology.

• Family engagement through open houses, progress updates and volunteer opportunities.

• Healthy snacks and active play built into the daily schedule.

• Accessible hours, transportation and cost structure that match family needs.

5 Steps to Finding the Right Program

1. Start early — preferably in midsummer. Popular programs can fill up before Labor Day.

2. Check credentials. Ask for licensing information, staff certifications in CPR/first aid, and turnover rates.

3. Plan a visit. Seeing the program grounds in person can be very informative. Observe the interactions around you and use the time to ask staff any questions you may have.

4. Verify logistics. Confirm daily hours, transportation options, weather policies and how the program handles half-days or school closures.

5. Explore funding help. Scholarships and other financial assistance can reduce costs. Conduct some research or ask program directors for options.

Questions to Ask About After-School Programs

During a visit or conversation with staff, questions such as these will help you get a better feel for the program and your child’s place within it:

• How does the program support social-emotional learning?

• What is the adult-to-student ratio during homework time?

• How are behavior issues handled and communicated to parents?

• Can you describe a recent project or field trip that excited students?

• How will you measure and share my child’s progress?

Pro tip: Bring a printed or digital checklist to each tour so you can compare programs side by side. Quality is easier to spot when you evaluate the same indicators every time.

Choose a Program That Grows With Your Child

Elementary students often need structure and close supervision, while tweens crave choice and leadership roles. Seek programs that let kids level up with age — such as mentoring younger peers, planning service projects or taking on roles in student councils. Continual challenge keeps participants engaged year after year.

Ryves Youth Center: A Local Model of Excellence

If you live in west central Indiana, Catholic Charities Terre Haute’s Ryves Youth Center deserves a spot on your shortlist. With fresh renovations, Ryves Youth Center is shining brighter than ever. A vibrant new mural greets visitors, while updated flooring, paint and bathrooms create a welcoming space that shows children they matter the moment they walk in. A new laundry room helps families meet basic needs with dignity and a forward-thinking program director has introduced a more structured schedule — so every minute spent at Ryves inspires growth, curiosity and confidence.

We’ve served children ages 3-17 for more than 40 years, and we’re not going anywhere. Ryves is proud to offer:

• Impactful activities: We offer supervised activities Monday through Friday, including tutoring, mentoring and a nutritious dinner every evening.

• Proven results: In fiscal year 2024, 86% of regular attendees improved or maintained their grades while participating in programs such as reading and basketball.

• Cost-free access: No membership fees are required, thanks to community donors and volunteers.

• Renovated, inspiring facility: From a beautiful mural to new bathrooms, fresh floors and bright paint, every upgrade signals safety, pride and possibility.

• Seasonal extras: From summer camps to Christmas parties, we provide timely events and activities that build teamwork and confidence throughout the year.

• Family Night: Every third Wednesday, we pair a free meal with themed workshops on health, finance and education. The evening also includes games and activities for youth and adults!

Ryves Youth Center embodies best practices in after-school care: supportive adults, a safe environment, strategic agency partnerships and programming that balances academics with fun. If you’re in west central Indiana, stop by, tour our refreshed space and discover how your child can thrive here — today and tomorrow.

Learn more about our Ryves Youth Center offerings today!

Here at Catholic Charities Terre Haute, we provide help and create hope by nourishing the minds, bodies, and spirits of children, families, adults and seniors. By collaborating with community partners, we provide nutritious food, safe shelter, quality youth programming and essential personal and household needs to our neighbors. Donate today to support meaningful community change!