Deficit models of low-income parents' involvement in schools are giving way to concepts of empowerment. An after-school computer education program in an inner-city youth club kindled parent interest and participation by focusing on children's educational success and valuing parents both as parents and as adult learners. (22 references) (SK)

Presents background information and reviews empirical research concerning the phenomenon of latchkey children. (Author/BB)

Argues that modern society has institutionalized children to such a degree that they have little variety and spontaneity in their lives. Suggests that child care, preschool, and after-school programs need to take better account of the individual needs of the children and families they serve. (MDM)

This study examined the effects of participation in an after school physical fitness program emphasizing aerobics on low-fit elementary students. Data were collected on four occasions. The program had a positive impact on field test measures but did not improve body fatness, cardiovascular responses to exercise, and blood lipid profiles. (SM)

Contracting for noneducational services is standard operating procedure in many school districts. Private contractors are involved in transportation, food service, maintenance, and even, in rare cases, instruction. Before deciding to contract out, school boards should examine improvement to school-run operations before making a final decision.…

Molly Stark School in Bennington, Vermont, is a year-round community school that offers a range of education, health and social services benefiting the students, community, and parents. Five successful initiatives (after-school, birth-to-5, mentoring, health and wellness, and parent literacy and involvement programs) are described. (MLH)

Notes that inclusive care benefits both typically and atypically developing school-age children. Describes caregivers' challenges as lack of training, resources, and identification of successful inclusive program components. Identifies as variables for successful programs: teacher-child ratios, level of provider training and experience, typically…

Describes the development of a computer club at an inner city elementary school in Chicago. Discusses the sense of community that grew; parent involvement; scaffold learning; self-control; community service; difficulties in creating a sustainable innovation; and possible future directions. (Contains 11 references.) (LRW)

Addresses the effects of an after-school computer club network, the Fifth Dimension, on children's computer knowledge development. Compares Fifth Dimension novices and "experts" who had attended several times previously. Concludes that despite the absence of formal instruction, children's knowledge about computers is enhanced. (AEF)

A high school vocational education teacher who customarily had students participate in cocurricular competition through the Future Farmers of America examined students' feelings about competition. Students revealed that winning was not the only important factor, though they wanted to feel well-prepared before competing. They appreciated the…

Notes that teachers see the computer as a tool to help them teach better, while students use computers to play games, chat, and design Web sites. Describes the after-school program Kids Learning In Computer Klubhouses (KLICK!) that operates clubhouses within local middle schools. Discusses what participants have accomplished for themselves, their…

This article provides an overview of an after school program one school implemented that included gifted middle school students as peer tutors for those who needed additional outside help and support. The development, design, objectives, and positive outcomes of the Homework Helpers program are described. (Contains references.) (CR)

Related children's experience in after-school programs to first grade performance. Found that staff positivity was associated with fewer boys' behavior problems, whereas staff negativity was related to boys' poorer reading/math grades. Program flexibility was associated with better boys' social skills. More frequent negative peer interactions in…

Examined program commitment over time among African American secondary school students involved in an extended day physical activity program designed to develop personal and social responsibility skills. Student interviews indicated that program organization, personal characteristics, development of interpersonal relationships, and program…

After-school programming is expanding widely, but some question its merits. Milwaukee's deputy school superintendent says giving students opportunities to participate in engaging activities can provide a strong incentive to stay in school. Critics cite flawed research, arguing that kids' lives are already overstructured. Programs in three cities…