Keep your child engaged

Supervised after-school activities benefit kids

Besides putting parents’ minds at ease, supervised afterschool programs positively impact young people’s mental and physical health.

A recent survey of Idaho students found:

• students who participate in after-school activities at least three days a week report lower stress levels
• students who participate in supervised after-school activities just one day a week, on average, are less likely to report having ever used drugs, including alcohol, e-cigarettes, and marijuana
  

Find local supervised afterschool programs at the Idaho Out of School Network. You can search their directory for information about programming at the YMCA, Boys and Girls Clubs, libraries, and more.

find their passion

What does your child do in his or her free time? Do they have a favorite hobby or try new things on a regular basis?

Having a passion or two can help your child develop a positive self-image, boost their confidence, and surround themselves with healthy, like-minded peers.

Confidence and self-respect will help your child stand up to peer pressure when the time comes.

Need some inspiration?

Check out this blog post to get ideas for pastimes your child can participate in around the state, from volunteering at an animal shelter to riding on a mountain biking team to training as a law enforcement cadet.