Finding Quality Youth Programs

finding a program

 Finding Quality Youth Programs

Is As Easy As 1-2-3-4

Looking for after school activities, summer programs, or just fun things to do in St. Paul? You’ve come to the right place.  Visit the Program Finder to discover programs and activities near your home or school. Enter keywords, location, program type and more to find programs and activities for kids, teens and youth near your home or school. You can also check out our online Event Calendar to see what’s happening in your neighborhood this week.

You already know that it’s important to find quality after-school and summer programs for the young people in your life. But how do you know quality when you see it? 

Look and ask for these top four signs of quality in the Sprockets Parent Guide:

WELCOMING STAFF

Look for upbeat staff members who encourage young people to learn new skills – or strengthen existing ones – by helping youth take on tasks that build confidence and self-esteem.
Ask • What are your staff’s qualifications? • How far in advance are activities planned?

SPARK

Look for young people having fun. Whether it’s through physical movement, private reflection or small-group teamwork, participants should be energized, focused, eager and on task. Laughter is a great sign!
Ask • Are the activities hands-on? • Do the participants help choose or plan the activities?

BELONGING

Look for welcoming, sociable interactions among all the participants. Smiles, eye contact and friendly conversation are good indicators of positive peer relationships.
Ask • How are conflicts addressed? • How do you maintain communication and connections between participants, parents/guardians and staff?

SAFETY

Look for a clean space with drinking fountains and bathroom facilities nearby, safety equipment (fire extinguishers, first aid kit, emergency phone) readily available and enough room to safely conduct the activities.
Ask • Is there an emergency plan? • Are background checks conducted on all staff and others who have access to the space? • Are staff CPR certified? • How do you manage drop off and pick up times?