For many families, afterschool activities and programs are essential—offering a safe, supervised place for children between the end of the school day and when a parent or guardian can pick them up.
But the value goes far beyond simply having somewhere to be. These programs can help kids tackle homework, discover new skills or hobbies, and find a creative and social outlet. Less obvious are the intangible gains: stronger social-emotional development and healthier behavioral habits—and research has consistently confirmed these advantages.
A landmark longitudinal study led by Dr. Deborah Vandell of the University of California, Irvine, followed a large group of young people over 26 years, examining how various environments—family, early education, schools, neighborhoods, and after-school settings—shape educational, health, and career outcomes. The results were significant. As adults, those who had participated in after-school programs were more likely to graduate and pursue higher education, tended to earn more and land better jobs, and showed greater engagement in their communities.
These findings support decades of research confirming the positive impact of after-school participation across all ages, from elementary school through high school.
To find the right after-school program for your child, explore these great options or browse Metro Family’s online directory of local programs.
As the Metro’s largest provider of school-aged childcare, the YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City offers Before- and After-School Care that focuses on help with homework, STEAM activities, group games, social and emotional development, character development and more. Year-round care is also available.
Boys and Girls Clubs of Oklahoma County
For 30 years, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Oklahoma County has provided children and youth with after-school and out-of-school care at its many youth centers. All programming is designed to foster a sense of belonging, competence, usefulness and influence as well self-confidence and self-esteem.
The Metropolitan Library System offers a wide variety of after-school activities and clubs involving coding, STEM, art, gaming, fashion, books and more. Most programs are free and with so many unique activities, there’s something for children of all ages.
OKC PAL (Police Athletic League)
The OKC PAL program is committed to providing positive opportunities for children and youth and to foster better relationships between youth and police officers. The program offers after-school mentoring and martial arts programs, as well as middle school sports leagues, which take place after school and on weekends during the respective seasons.
Urban League of Greater Oklahoma CityÂ
The Urban League of Greater Oklahoma City provides an After School STEM Reading Center for students in Pre-K through sixth grade. The program offers a supported learning environment that promotes social, emotional and academic development.
Children’s Learning Adventure
Along with its day care and early childhood education options, Children’s Learning Adventure offers Before-and-After-School programs as well as summer and holiday camps. All programs provide an enriching curriculum supporting educational and social development.
La Petite Academy
La Petite Academy provides a wide range of early childhood education opportunities as well as Before & After-School programs. Children will participate in STEM activities, outdoor playtime, homework help, creative projects, and group activities.
Primrose Schools
Beyond its preschool and kindergarten programs, Primrose Schools offers Before & After-School Care through its Explorer program. Children can relax, make friends, get homework help, learn through creative expression, sports, technology, drama, music, and more.
KinderCare
KinderCare provides programs for infants through Pre-K. Its Before & After-School program lets children build STEM projects, create art, play, form friendships, and get homework help from trained teachers.
Childcare Network
Childcare Network provides programs for infants through Pre-K. Its Young Achievers Club is a Before & After-School program designed to provide a safe, nurturing, and enriching environment outside of school hours. Children enjoy daily experiences in math, science, language, and art plus outdoor time with the freedom to choose their own activities.
SPARK Child Care
SPARK is a state-licensed, out-of-school-time program for school-age children and a 5-star child care center through Oklahoma’s Reaching for the Stars. Founded by the First Presbyterian Church of Oklahoma City, the SPARK staff offers tutoring and enrichment activities for neighborhood children as well as child care before school, after school, and all day during school breaks. The program provides a safe, encouraging, and loving atmosphere where children can explore, experiment, create, and play.
Oklahoma City Parks and Recreation
OKC Parks offers a variety of after-school activities and programs for kids of all ages. Through its many community centers, kids can take part in fun sports and games, stimulating arts and crafts, and enriching learning activities. The after school Kidz Rock program is open to elementary and middle school students and provides a safe environment with opportunities for fun, socializing and learning.
Kiddie Academy
Kiddie Academy offers convenient before- and after-school care, as well as a full-day program for children ages 5 to 12. Through its Creative Explorers program, school-age children have the opportunity to explore their interests in a fun, engaging, and flexible environment. Kids can participate in exciting activities and hands-on projects designed to encourage creativity, build confidence, and support continued learning beyond the classroom. Kiddie Academy also offers care and learning programs for children from infancy through kindergarten, providing families with quality educational childcare options.
Childtime Learning Centers
Childtime Learning Centers offers before- and after-school programs for school-age children up to 12 years old, providing a fun and engaging environment where kids can start their day strong. The program includes exciting activities, STEM learning opportunities, homework support, and healthy snacks. Childtime also offers childcare and early learning programs for children from infancy through kindergarten, along with a variety of options designed to meet the needs of today’s families.
