Before and After School Care: A Lifeline for Working Parents

Every parent wants the best for their children. They know that healthy development in the early years sets the stage for a bright future. Yet, managing busy lives while ensuring kids receive proper care can be challenging.

The City of Surrey’s licensed Before and After School Care program meets the needs of busy parents. The program offers a safe, nurturing environment where kids, aged 5 to 13, can learn, play and grow. With dedicated staff, engaging activities and a comprehensive curriculum, it’s not just beneficial; it can be transformative. For one set of parents, it’s been the key to balancing work and family life.

A Responsive Approach to Learning 

Petrina A. and her husband value spending quality time with their seven-year-old son, Mathis and five-year-old daughter, Gloria. However, managing their busy professional lives made it impossible to work and care for their children around the clock. They recognized the need for a program that could keep their kids active and engaged during their work hours, so they could both continue providing for their family.

The Before and After School Care program offered the convenience they were searching for. They also liked how the adaptive learning approach tailored activities to encourage curiosity, critical thinking and creativity for the group. As a result, Mathis has been part of the program at Martha Currie Elementary for the past three years, and Gloria will be joining in the fall when she begins kindergarten.

Leading by Example 

The program’s leaders are crucial to its success. They promote positive peer interactions, nurture a sense of community and provide a range of activities—from sports to arts and crafts to card games. Their goal is to inspire confidence in each child.

“The staff are very caring, responsible and attuned to the children’s individual needs. Their professionalism instills trust that our son is receiving excellent care, and the welcoming environment they foster has had a positive impact on him,” said Petrina.

Noticeable Impact 

Mathis has thrived under the care of dedicated staff, acquiring new skills and forming lasting friendships. Memorable events like Pancake Days have fostered a sense of belonging, while holiday celebrations such as Mother’s Day Breakfast and Father’s Day BBQ have helped spark creativity.

One of Mathis’ favourite activities is gym time. Whether he’s playing soccer, playing tag or racing around, the gym is a tremendous source of joy for him. Under the watchful eye of attentive leaders, Mathis not only plays with peers his own age, but also interacts with children from different age groups and classes.

Petrina and her husband feel that their son’s involvement in different activities and social interactions has improved his skills, adaptability and critical thinking, benefiting his overall development.

A Lifeline for Busy Parents 

For Petrina and her husband, the program has been a lifeline. It aligns with their family needs, financial budget and busy schedule. Participation in the program has also proven very convenient, given its location within Mathis’ school. While affordability and convenience are important to the young family, they find the program’s sense of security most valuable. “The program offers us peace of mind that our son is well cared for while we’re at work,” emphasized Petrina.

The effective learning approach, skilled staff and welcoming atmosphere offer reassurance when they say goodbye to their son each morning. As such, they’ve considered the program both a necessity and a trusted partner in their parenting journey over the past three years and look forward to continuing with both of their children in the program this September.

Before and After School Care Registration is Now Open for 2024/25 

Balancing work commitments and other adult responsibilities can make it challenging to ensure that children receive the care they deserve. City of Surrey’s licensed Before and After School Care program offers a convenient, affordable and high-quality option, allowing children like Mathis and Gloria to thrive while helping families achieve a more harmonious balance.

Registration for 2024/25 Before and After School Care is now open, with limited capacity remaining. To register your child, join a waitlist or learn more about the program, visit surrey.ca/afterschoolcare.