Lana Hickman helps student Leif
After a trial period of several weeks The Funhouse has officially introduced “Activity Hour” to the After School program. From 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. Monday – Thursday, the computers and video games get turned off and kids choose from one of several different activities to participate in.
Activities include (but are not limited to): Homework Club, Art & Science ‘Connections’, or activities with a teen staff, like capture the flag, board games, or other structured play.
“We felt the kids could really benefit from a little more direction during the after school hours,” said Krista Bouchey, assistant director. “The kids seem to respond well to more direct attention and productive time spent here.”
Time and time again it has been proven that having constructive after school hours are a key component to keeping kids on track for success. Successful programs like the one at The Funhouse have been shown to improve school attendance, engagement in learning, improved test scores, and keep kids safe and healthy.
Kai MacGregor and Liam Tidrington, future Nobel Prize science winners?
Homework Club, which has been a Funhouse staple for several years, grew out of studies that show household stress is significantly reduced when kids come home in the evening with their homework already done.
“The new after school program has already had an impact,” said Pete Moe, executive director. “We have been listening to the community and we know that parents want us to provide more structure. This seems to be an effective, and fun way to do that.”
The Funhouse is hoping that the program will attract more kids after school.
“It’s also a great opportunity for volunteers to get directly involved with the kids,” says Bouchey. “We would love to have more adults come in share their ideas and work with the kids.”
The Funhouse encourages anyone who is interested to contact Krista for more information 376-7177 or krista@thefunhouse.org.
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Founded by generous members of the Orcas Island community in 2000, The Funhouse is a 501(c)3 non- profit community center with hands-on science exhibits, multi-media labs, art studio, climbing wall and more. The Funhouse also facilitates essential Teen, After School, Education and Mentor programs for the youth on Orcas Island. www.thefunhouse.org
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