Beaufort YMCA after school program combines learning with fun
To help nurture and inspire kids to discover their potential, the YMCA of Beaufort County is offering an after school program to school-aged children throughout Beaufort County. Through a holistic approach to youth development, the Y’s after school program offers activities in a caring and safe environment where youth can achieve, feel a sense of belonging, build friendships and explore new interests.
One in four U.S. children is left unsupervised at the end of school day, according to the Afterschool Alliance, a nonprofit public awareness advocacy organization. With the start of the new school year last week, the YMCA of Beaufort County encourages parents/caregivers to make sure that children are involved in safe, educational experiences after school hours.
“When the school day ends, continued learning can have a positive influence on how well youth perform in school, boosting school attendance, academic performance and reducing gaps in academic achievement particularly among children from disadvantaged households,” said Kaylin Garst, Operations Director, YMCA of Beaufort County. “With the support of nurturing adults, youth in after school programs cultivate the values, skills and relationships that lead to positive behaviors, better health and education achievement.”
Some of the programs and activities included in the after school program include ARF & Tail Waggin’ Tutors, yoga, bible study with volunteers from The Parish Church of St. Helena and Y clubs.
Y Clubs include swimming, sports, Togetherhood junior, career club and more. In the new career club various occupations will be explored by the students, with professionals from the community visiting the club to describe their job, their educational achievements and why they love their career.
In the YMCA of Beaufort County’s after school program youth receive homework assistance and can also explore literacy and math activities, nutrition education, arts, service learning, 21st Century Skills, physical fitness, and swimming.
The YMCA of Beaufort County has adopted a set of Healthy Eating and Physical Activity standards in its after school programs that will build a healthier future for children by providing healthy environments rich in opportunities for healthy eating and physical activity.
For more information about the YMCA of Beaufort County’s after school program, please contact Kaylin Garst, Operations Director, 843-522-9622 or visit ymcabeaufortcounty.com.
