Parent FAQ

Q: What ages do you serve?

A: Our before and after school programs, tutoring, and science programs serve school-age children, typically 5-12 years old. We also offer preschool/pre-k programs for 3-5 year olds and for kindergarten extended day at select locations. Find out more about our programs.

Q: What sets an extended day learning program apart from a recreation program?

A: One important aspect of all of our programs is that kids develop a passion for learning while having fun. Many of the planned activities integrate specific skills and learning concepts, and children are allowed to extend or adapt the activity in their own way. Staff is encouraged to work with the school to develop activities that support the school's own initiatives. As a result, a true partnership develops.

Our Read Write Now literacy program, Do-Right Crew character development program and Fitness Program also distinguish us not only from recreation-focused providers, but also from most other after-school programs.

Q. What types of activities are offered in a before and after school program?

A. Our Champions Before and After School Programs offer five activity areas:

• Take the Challenge
• Snack Attack
• The Nature of It
• Imagine That, and
• Sport Zone.

Each activity area is planned for daily with a variety of activities:

• Arts and crafts
• Drama presentations
• Puzzles and brainteasers
• Outdoor games
• Cooking projects
• Observing nature
• Science discovery

Children also have the opportunity to participate in daily reading and writing activities through our Read Write Now literacy program and in character-building activities through the Do-Right Crew character development program, in addition to our fitness program. Younger children also typically experience age-appropriate activity choices.

Q. What type of curriculum is used in your preschool and kindergarten extended day programs?

A. Our kindergarten extended day programs and preschool/pre-k programs work with the school districts to collaborate on a curriculum for these programs. Curriculum options include:

• Scholastic Early Childhood Program Curriculum
• Developmental Learning Materials (DLM) from McGraw-Hill Publishing

These curriculum options focus on preparing children for school-age learning challenges.

Q: Is there a place for school-age kids to work on their homework?

A: Kids can focus on homework in the Take the Challenge activity area, a quiet area with basic supplies. Our site staff will work together with the parent(s) and child to complete homework assignments while at the site if that is the expectation. Homework options are available to families.

Q: Do kids have to do activities that they are not interested in?

A: Children are allowed to select activities in our extended learning environments. They can stay in one activity area all day long or spend time in each activity or learning center areas. Our site staff is trained to engage, challenge, and assist children as they try out new skills.

Q: What is unique about your Supplemental Educational Services Program (the Champions Tutoring Program)?

A: Certified teachers with experience teaching in their fields provide tutoring, typically onsite at your child's school. Our tutoring program includes:

• Testing—determines your child's skill level and our flexible curriculum addresses your child's specific learning needs.
• Progress reports—keep you informed of your child's achievement levels.
• Recognition and reward programs—keep children motivated.
• Free parent workshops—support parents as you work to keep your children involved and achieving.

Q. What about your science programs? What options are available?

The following are options available through Champions Science Adventures:

• Summer Science Day Camps
  Week-long science day camp programs are offered throughout the summer in a casual outdoor or indoor setting.
• Science Assemblies
  School-wide science assemblies are dynamic, "hands-on," interactive science presentations designed for large groups.
• After School Science Clubs
  Children learn by doing in science club programs that meet once a week throughout the year at elementary schools or community centers.
• Classroom Visits
  This program features science learning adventures presented in a classroom setting.
• Family Science Nights
  Family Science Nights are hour and a half presentations on school campuses or at community centers.

For locations and enrollment information, call 1-(800)-472-4362. Get more details on our upcoming fall Science Clubs and specific location information.

Q: Where in the school is the program held?

A: Location depends on arrangements with each individual school. Our program may be held in the following areas:

• Gym
• Cafeteria
• Multi-purpose room
• Portable classrooms
• Designated classrooms

Occasionally, the school may request that we move to another space for a few hours or a day to accommodate the school's schedule. Community Based Organizations (CBOs) occasionally house our SES programs at their locations.

Q: How do I register for your program?

A: Please refer to our Request for Information.