Last fall, we asked members to complete a short survey about programs and activities offered by park and recreation agencies for school-aged children during out-of-school time (before school, after school or during the summer). Representatives of 339 agencies responded to questions on a variety of topics relating to the types of programs offered, the content of the programs, standards for physical activity and healthy eating, logistics, and challenges related to offering out-of-school time programs. Below are a few survey highlights:

Nearly all responding agencies (98.8 percent) offer summer programs for children and youth

Most commonly offered summer programs: group and individual sports

Most agencies (79.6 percent) provide after-school programs

Most commonly offered after-school programs: homework help, sports and fitness

Most agencies (69.5 percent) have standards for physical activity in out-of-school time programs

Many agencies (42.1 percent) have standards for healthy eating in out-of-school time programs 

Many agencies work with local schools to provide nature and environmental programming during the school day through student field trips (24.3 percent), provider visits to schools (16.6 percent) or both (42.6 percent)

Major barriers to participation in out-of-school time programs include cost, transportation, competition from other activity providers, space or facility limitations, and interest from students and families in programs

NRPA’s Partnership and Business Development department will use this information to help make the case to potential funders that support is needed to expand and enrich out-of-school time opportunities in local park and recreation agencies.

Jessica Culverhouse is NRPA’s Senior Fundraising Manager.