For working parents in Little Rock, finding reliable and enriching before and after school care for elementary school children is a top priority. The Little Rock School District understands this need and offers the Little Rock Care Program, a fantastic resource designed to provide a safe, engaging, and affordable environment for students. Let’s delve into what makes the CARE program a valuable asset for families in the district.
What is the Little Rock CARE Program?
The Before and After School CARE program stands out as a non-profit initiative, uniquely self-supported and dedicated to serving the students and parents within the Little Rock School District. This program is thoughtfully structured to provide a wide array of activities that cater to the diverse interests of elementary-aged children. Participants in the CARE program benefit from both large group interactions and independent exploration, ensuring a balanced and stimulating experience. The core mission is to offer a nurturing space that complements the school day, giving parents peace of mind and children opportunities for growth and fun.
Engaging Activities for Every Child
The Little Rock CARE Program is committed to providing a rich and varied schedule of activities. Children participating in the program can look forward to:
- Outdoor Recreational Activities: Promoting physical health and teamwork through active play and games in a supervised outdoor setting.
- Arts and Crafts: Encouraging creativity and self-expression with diverse art projects and craft activities.
- Music: Exploring musicality and rhythm through songs, musical games, and potentially introductory instrument exposure.
- Games: Developing social skills and strategic thinking through a variety of age-appropriate games.
- Supervised Homework Time: Providing a quiet and supportive environment for students to complete their homework assignments with assistance available if needed.
This blend of activities ensures that children have opportunities to learn, play, and socialize in a constructive and enjoyable manner, making the after school hours a positive extension of their school day.
Program Availability and Schedule
Accessibility and convenience are key features of the Little Rock CARE Program. It is available at Little Rock School District elementary schools that meet a minimum enrollment threshold of 15 full-time participants, ensuring efficient resource allocation and program sustainability. The program operates during regular school days with convenient hours for working parents:
- Before School Care: From 7:00 a.m. until the start of the school day, allowing parents to drop off children early and get to work on time.
- After School Care: From school dismissal until 5:30 p.m., providing ample time for parents to manage their work schedules and pick up their children.
Furthermore, recognizing the needs of parents during school breaks, CARE extends its services to specified sites on Parent Conference Days, Teacher Workdays, and Professional Development Days. These sessions are available by reservation and at an additional cost, offering valuable childcare solutions when school is not in regular session. It’s important to note that CARE program adheres to school closures, meaning it will be closed when schools are closed or dismissed early due to emergencies or inclement weather, ensuring student safety remains the top priority.
Contact the CARE Office for More Information
For parents interested in enrolling their children in the Little Rock CARE Program or seeking further details, the CARE office is readily available to assist. You can easily reach them by calling 447-1880. The dedicated staff can provide information on enrollment procedures, fees, specific school availability, and answer any questions you may have to help you determine if the Little Rock CARE Program is the right fit for your family’s needs.
Choosing the right before and after school care is crucial for both children’s well-being and parents’ peace of mind. The Little Rock CARE Program offers a comprehensive, affordable, and engaging solution for elementary school families within the district. By providing a nurturing environment and a diverse range of activities, CARE supports children’s development beyond the regular school day and offers working parents the reliable care they need.
