School-Age Care
Before-school, after-school, and summer programs for children ages 5-12, also called out-of-school-time (OST) care.
School-age care refers to programs that provide supervision, enrichment, and recreational activities for children ages 5 to 12 during times when school is not in session. This includes before-school care (typically 6:30-8:30 AM), after-school care (typically 3:00-6:00 PM), full-day care during school breaks and holidays, and summer camp programs. School-age care is also known as out-of-school-time (OST) programming.
School-age programs differ from preschool and infant/toddler care in several ways. Staff-to-child ratios are higher (often 1:12 to 1:15), programming is more activity-based than curriculum-driven, and children have more autonomy and choice in their activities. Common program elements include homework help, STEM activities, arts and crafts, sports and outdoor play, social-emotional learning, and community service projects.
For childcare centers that serve younger children, adding a school-age program can be a way to retain families as their children age out of preschool, generate additional revenue from underutilized space during before/after school hours, and serve as a pipeline for sibling enrollment. Licensing requirements for school-age programs vary by state and are generally less stringent than those for younger children.
Related Terms
Center-Based Care
Childcare provided in a commercial facility (not a home), subject to more stringent licensing requirements than home-based care.
Licensing
State-issued authorization to operate a childcare facility, requiring compliance with health, safety, staffing, and facility standards.
Pre-K (Pre-Kindergarten)
An education program for children typically ages 3-5, before kindergarten entry, offered through public schools or private programs.
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