I used to work exclusively with after school kids for 5 years in an after school program during the school year and a “summer camp” during the summer. This was through a YMCA. In two words, NEVER AGAIN. I still have a few close friends that work it still and just the hinges they complain about never change.

I personally say I don’t take after school kids, say one wishing to enroll for an entire summer, but I have taken older siblings a day here and there or on school closed days as I usually have a few of my regular kids off those days.

We ran our after school care right at the elementary schools in the gym or cafeteria, depending on the school. They “rented” the space but I’ve since found they don’t pay anything to rent it as the school district sees it as a public service and a perk for parents that their kids can stay there after school and not have to pay for bussing. It ran/runs from school close (2:40-3:00 depending on the school) until 6PM. They charged $150 a month for 5 days and $135(?) for 4 days. Drop in rate was $30 per day and only available if there was space, not guaranteed. The program was licensed and subject to all that that involves. They got a snack, outdoor play, group game, quiet time/homework help, and an occasional craft (which I believe now is a daily thing, an option not something they have to do).

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