Interview with Murray, OOSH Educator
As parents, we all yearn for the perfect balance between our child’s education and fun. In the search for the ultimate after-school experience, Out of School Hours (OOSH) programs have been cropping up as a popular choice. We had the pleasure of sitting down with an industry expert from WAYS Youth & Family to discuss the essence of OOSH programs and why they can benefit your child.
Let’s dive into their insights on the objectives of OOSH programs, how to choose the right one for your little one, what a typical day looks like, catering to kids with unique needs, and what ingredients make a successful OOSH program.
The Heart of OOSH Programs
OOSH programs aren’t your ordinary after-school care. They’re all about nurturing children’s independence, boosting their social skills, and imparting crucial life skills. Importantly, these programs strive to create an atmosphere where children genuinely relish their time. At WAYS Youth & Family, they’ve crafted a program tailored for kids aged 8 to 12, ensuring that older kids don’t feel out of place amidst younger peers – a common concern with traditional after-school care.
What Parents Need to Keep in Mind
When you’re on the hunt for the right OOSH program, the quality of educators should be high on your radar. Murray has more than four years of experience at WAYS Youth & Family, stresses the importance of educators who truly understand each child’s unique needs and interests. Building strong connections with kids is the cornerstone for a rewarding OOSH experience.
A Glimpse into a Day in the Life of an OOSH Child
Ever wondered what a day in an OOSH program looks like? For example, at WAYS, the day starts with a friendly chat with the kids. This interaction helps the team understand the kids’ interests and any necessary adjustments to the day’s activities. After this, it’s time for a nutritious afternoon tea. But the real fun begins during playtime, where children are encouraged to explore, learn, and just be kids. They can dive into planned activities or simply enjoy the time playing with their buddies.
Inclusivity for All
But what if your child has additional requirements? Organisations like WAYS, they go the extra mile. When you sign up, they take the time to understand your whole family and give parents a voice. They believe parents are the true experts when it comes to their kids. Plus, they’ve partnered with an inclusion agency to provide extra support when kids with distinct needs come into the picture.
Important factors that contribute to a successful OOSH program
Murray said there must be three things that work in equilibrium which are the environment, the program, and the educator. The environment must be set up in ways that allow for learning and minimise frustrations for children. The program of activities and experiences should allow for children to simply play. The educator has the most important role in guiding children’s play, relationships, and development.
Trends in the World of OOSH Programs
Technology – when done right, it is a great learning resource. At WAYS, they don’t allow children to freely play on tablets, but they plan specific experiences including animation and virtual reality.