YMCA afterschool programs provide learning activities for area children

HARDYSTON — The Sussex County YMCA is offering an afterschool program to school-aged children in Blairstown, Franklin, and Hardyston to help motivate and inspire children to learn.

Providing youth with opportunities to continue to learn and engage in meaningful activities at the end of the school day can boost their academic success. The Y’s afterschool program combines academics with play and offers a caring and safe environment for youth who could otherwise be left unsupervised.

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. In New Jersey, 28 percent of children are left alone and responsible for taking care of themselves. With the start of the new school year, the Sussex County YMCA encourages parents and caregivers to make sure children are involved in safe, educational experiences after school.

“The combination of enrichment and extended learning opportunities is essential to increasing children’s success in school,” said Jennifer Gardner, executive director of the Sussex County YMCA. “YMCA afterschool 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.”

Studies show participation in afterschool programs helps boost school attendance and academic performance and reduces gaps in academic achievement. Consistent quality care for all children daily helps provide every child to be successful, happy and healthy.

The Sussex County YMCA’s afterschool program offers help with homework, Healthy U Program and sports and enrichment activities. Financial assistance is available to those in need to ensure every child and teen has the opportunity to learn and grow at the Y.

For more information about the Sussex County YMCA’s afterschool program, please contact Samantha Walter, School Age Child Care and Sports & Enrichment Director, at 973.209.9622 or visit sussexcountyymca.org.