School-Age Childcare Guide 2026: Before and After School Care
Complete guide to school-age childcare in 2026. Before and after school programs, summer care, what to look for, and supporting school-age children.
School-age childcare fills the gap between school hours and parent work schedules. Quality before and after school programs provide safe, enriching environments that support homework, recreation, and social development.
Table of Contents
Understanding School-Age Needs
Developmental Stage
| Area | School-Age Characteristics | |------|---------------------------| | Independence | Growing but still needs support | | Social | Friends become crucial | | Academic | Homework, learning | | Physical | Active, sports interested | | Emotional | Complex feelings, peer influence |
What They Need
Quality programs provide:
- Safe environment
- Homework support
- Social opportunities
- Physical activity
- Enrichment options
Types of Programs
Program Options
| Type | Description | |------|-------------| | Center-based | Licensed after-school centers | | School-based | On-campus programs | | Recreation | Parks & rec, YMCA | | Enrichment | Specialized (sports, arts) | | Family childcare | Home-based options |
Before School
Programs may offer:
- Early drop-off (6-7am)
- Breakfast
- Quiet activities
- Homework time
- Transportation to school
After School
Programs may offer:
- School pickup
- Snacks
- Homework help
- Enrichment activities
- Free play
- Outdoor time
Quality Indicators
Environment
| Element | Quality Sign | |---------|--------------| | Space | Age-appropriate, not babyish | | Materials | Varied, interesting | | Structure | Balance of activities | | Staff | Engaged, positive | | Safety | Secure, supervised |
Activities
Quality includes: | Activity | Purpose | |----------|---------| | Homework time | Academic support | | Physical play | Exercise, fun | | Clubs/enrichment | Interests, learning | | Free choice | Independence | | Social time | Friendships |
Making the Right Choice
Questions to Ask
- What is the daily schedule?
- How do you handle homework?
- What activities do you offer?
- What is the staff-to-child ratio?
- How do you handle transportation?
Consider Your Child
Think about:
- Their interests
- Homework needs
- Activity preferences
- Social needs
- Independence level
Summer Care
Summer Options
| Option | Considerations | |--------|----------------| | Day camps | Themed, structured | | Recreation programs | Sports, activities | | Year-round after-school | Full-day summer | | Combination | Mix programs |
Resources
Last updated: December 2025