This active group of children between the ages of five and twelve spend the most of their day in school.  After school they like to relax with their friends in a less structured environment where they are more in control of the activities they choose.  They judge an activity by its “fun index,” so play is an important component of our program.  Play fosters cognitive development while enhancing social development and at this age children are eager to form social connections. They love making friends and being a friend.  By now they are learning to be more in control of themselves and their immediate environment and most can take care of their personal needs. They will observe rules, enjoy organized activities and welcome a challenge.

THE PROGRAM
This innovative program is housed in two large classrooms at Harkins Elementary School and offers a convenient child care alternative to parents whose children already attend the school. Children from other schools are welcome to enrol if space is available.  In collaboration with the school, many activities have been made available to the children including the playground, gym and computer lab.  In addition, once a week with parent’s permission, the children are bussed off site to participate in a variety of sport activities which have been arranged by the school.  These activities include ten week intervals of swimming, skating, cross country skiing, and curling. 

THE ENVIRONMENT
Children begin arriving around two pm and enjoy a prepackaged snack and beverage.  After snack some children go to an adjacent classroom to get help with homework while others choose to select an activity from the wide variety available.  The block corner is popular and always busy while others prefer to play in the sand and water tables.  Table top games, lego and challenging puzzles are always available or the puppet theatre awaits anyone who likes to challenge their dramatic play skills. Usually a time is set aside to visit the gym for a game of soccer or on a fine day the playground is the best alternative to burn off excess energy.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Our After School Program at Just Kids on Radio St is  available on full days to Harkins After School Club when required ie: storm days, professional development days,  Christmas and March Break and over the summer. Please call in advance to make arrangements for this service.