Improving Children’s Grades and Academic Achievement
Young people attending formal after-school programs often spend more time in academic activities and in enrichment lessons than do their peers left unsupervised after school. Children whose out-of-school time includes 20-35 hours of constructive learning activities do better in school.
Studies indicate that students in after-school programs show better achievement in math, reading, and other subjects.
Increasing Children’s Interest and Ability in Reading
Quality after-school curricula expose children to an environment rich in language and print. Quality, research-based tutoring programs also produce improvements in reading achievement.
Reading in a structured environment can also lead to greater self-confidence in reading, increased motivation to read, and improved behavior.
Improving Attendance, Increasing Engagement in School, and Reducing the Dropout Rate
After-school programs can help children develop greater confidence in their academic abilities and a greater interest in school, both of which have been shown to lead improved school attendance and completion rates.
Students who spent one to four hours a week in extracurricular activities were 60 percent less likely to have dropped out of school by 12th grade than their peers who did not participate.
Increasing Homework Quality
The structure of an after-school program can make homework part of students’ daily routine.
This can contribute to children in after-school programs completing more and better-prepared homework because of their participation.
Increasing Aspirations for the Future
By giving children role models and the tools they need to succeed in school, after-school programs can help children realize their full potential.