GainesvilleMoms.com

A couple moms have been telling me they are having a hard time finding after-school care. There aren't many locations offering it, waiting lists, etc. Is anyone else having this problem? Have you found somewhere to send your child?

I am looking for a babysitter to work Tues and Thur in my home from 2pm to 5pm. It would be fine if it was a Mom w/ a child. My children are (in Jan) 4.5 & 2yrs old.

P.S-Will not need until Jan. However am starting to search now.

LEW-I might have someone for you, She's great for kids...I'll find out her schedule, and see. I"ve known her for 10 years, and she's very sweet.
Daphne

This is something that is already starting to stress me out, and I won't even need after-school care for another two years! The kids gets out around 1, and my husband and I don't get off until 5 -- that four hours every day that I'll have to find a safe, fun environment. Does anyone have any recommendations or reviews? How is the after-school program with the public schools?

Sarah,
I might be able to help you with after school care, because I plan to stay home with mine. I have a 3 y/o also...what school will be going to? Is he doing the VPK next year?

My two oldest go to Star Martial Arts for after school. They have been in taekwondo there for almost a year, and enjoy it every day. They are located on North 34th near El Indio.

I can get more info for anyone that is interested. Ed Gnad is the owner/instructor and is excellent!

Shannon

Isnt taekwondo expensive? That is what Ive always heard at least.
I have no idea what my so0n to be schedule lo0ks like, but if Im staying home, I will totally extend the service! Ive had this issue for a long time. Now that Zakko is going to scho0l Im totally freaking out! The daycare he had when mommy and daddy both worked was behind the Magic Kingdom and they were open 24 hours a day and weekends. (Totally amazing child care.)
I remember being a kid.. Latchkey.. What the heck ever happened to that?!

Daphne, right now they're in a daycare/preschool that I love, so luckily I don't have to worry about it for a couple years. Last time I checked we were zoned for Idylwild, and I don't think that's changed. Thanks for the offer.

This is the info I received from Mr. Gnad cost was not too bad, The actual classes ran cheaper then other schools, I don't want to quote prices since they may have changed.

The program starts on August 18, 2008 until the last day of school. The program includes teacher work days and storm flex days at no charge. We will pick up from the following schools: Norton Elementary, Stephen Foster Elementary, Glen Springs Elementary, Littlewood Elementary & Talbot Elementary. We also pick up from the following middle schools: Westwood Middle School & Ft. Clark Middle School. As far as prices, please have them call the school & ask for Mr. Gnad. Our number is (352) 374-4950.

If you have any other questions, please give me a call. Our after care program includes TKD classes, lifeskill courses, free time & homework time.

Shannon

My children attended the after school program (edep) w/ the public schools for many years. We never had any problems and they offer summer camp also. They do sign-ups at the kindergarden round up the year before your child starts, for incoming kindergardeners and at the end of the school year for the older group. Even if you are unsure about using them, I would sign your child up just to hold the space. They start a wait list after they fill up.

There are a lot of programs available at the YMCA. They range from karate to gymnastics and after school programs as well. They have homework help, field trips, and swimming. The enrichment clubs aren't bad either. Price is comparable with the edep programs at the schools. It's worth checking out.

well my ten year old has put in to ride the bus home this year. he will come home alone some days but we live all around family, i doubt that grandma will let him be...and big sis will be home unless she has practice.

and dh works right there on the farm. i just don't know how i feel about it. i'm not concerned about his safety at all, i just don't want him sitting around playing video games and watching tv for 2-3 hours until i get home. he's going to have to show real maturity about getting his homework done and finishing his reading time or it will be back to EDEP, which i should say is a great program if your local director is on her game. we had issues but dealt with them and she is no longer with the school board.

and him staying home has its benefits for me as well, i would love to save that $160/month and the time and gas money going back into town each night to pick him up. but i'm trying to not let that influence my decision...but reality is...

we'll see. he is signed up and it may take a few weeks of me paying and him not going to prove he is capable of being responsible.