Family Y's After-School Program Promotes 'Love for Learning'

It's that time of year again -- time to start thinking about what your kids can do after the school day is over.

That's where the Westport-Weston Family Y comes in. The organization offers an after-school program for Westport and Weston families "that that combines academics with play and offers a caring and safe environment for youth," according to a release.

"During the school year, 15.1 million U.S. children are left unsupervised after 3 p.m., according to the Afterschool Alliance, a nonprofit public awareness advocacy organization," the Y's release states.  

"With the start of the new school year, the Family Y encourages parents/caregivers to make sure that children are involved in safe, educational experiences after school."

The Y's 2013-2014 after-school program for first through fifth grade students will take place at Saugatuck Elementary School in Westport. From the end of the school day until 6 p.m., students can:

• Play outdoors
• Take swim lessons
• Participate in art activities
• Play table games
• Eat snacks

The program is offered to all Westport and Weston students. There's also an early bird program for students in kindergarten through fifth starting at 7 a.m. on school days.

“The combination of enrichment and extended learning opportunities is essential to increasing children’s success in school,” Tasha Dennison, Senior Director of the Family Y’s Child Care and School Age Programs, said.

“YMCA after-school programs promote a love for learning, social and emotional development, healthy choices, character and creativity, and provide children with an extra support system through positive role models to help them achieve and reach their full potential.”

To learn more, contact Dennison at 203-226-8981 ext. 113 or at tdennison@westporty.org. Or, visit the Westport-Weston Family Y website.