The After-School Program for the younger grade-schoolers emphasizes self-esteem and responsible social interaction.  When they arrive at Day Nursery, they are looking for activities different from school - just as they would if they were going home - so the pace is more leisurely than the pace of school.  

The program encourages children to explore a variety of activities that match their interests and needs. Learning centers are systematically placed around the room to encourage multi-sensorial experiences. These centers include math, various size blocks, library books, arts and crafts, and games.

 

Learning to work as a group takes time.  Dramatic play provides an excellent source of cooperative skills.  All groups of children will have problems, but we encourage everyone to learn to talk things over and get the other person's point of view.  At this age, friendships are forming and small groups enjoy working together.

 

During the After-School Program for older grade-schoolers, the children may choose activities in the upstairs classrooms which are stocked with games, art supplies, books and magazines, VCR, and computers equipped with educational and publishing software.  More structured activities are also offered every day;  these planned activities include seasonal art projects, creative writing, science discovery projects, and group games. We encourage good study habits by providing quiet areas in  which to complete homework or read.   The computers are also available to help with some assignments.   The after-school schedule begins with outside playtime, weather permitting. During snack, the class engages in relaxing discussions.  Once the children have done any homework that their parents want them to complete while at day care, they have the choice between free time and scheduled activity.  Occasionally, the class may watch a movie or the Disney Channel. The summer all day program provides time for more complicated craft projects and lots of outdoor time.  Visiting local playing fields provide the school-agers with plenty of exercise.  Activities such as the School-age Olympics provide outdoor exercise as well as opportunities to learn to cooperate with others. The school-agers also enjoy many field trips to different places such as Coopers Restaurant,  the movie theater, the Lackawanna County Court House, amusement parks, and many more.