How to Choose an Afterschool Activity for Your Child in NYC!
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—What is the program's policy on parent pickups? If a parent is late, will they take care of the child, and will the child be supervised?
—Can parents sit in on classes?
—If there is a younger sibling, can that child also sit in?
—What happens if the teacher is sick — who subs?
—Does the facility offer a sample class to observe? Can the parent also attend this session?
—What are the procedures for dealing with medical emergencies?
—Are there beginner classes for older kids? (For instance, you don't want your 10-year-old tap dancer learning the steps with 2nd graders).
—If a child gets hurt during a class, is there more than one adult in attendance — another adult who can step in to take care of the child?
Facilities
—Is there running water in the bathroom for hand washing?
—Is bottled drinking water available, or should your child bring her own?
—Is a snack provided?
—Is the facility spacious, clean, and uncluttered?
—Is there enough space for parents/younger siblings to sit in (if this is what you would want to do)?
—Is there a secure area for students to leave their backpacks and other belongings?
—Is the space heated/air conditioned?
—Is the equipment kid-sized? (important in an exercise or gymnastics program)