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'Lights On Afterschool': Playmates celebrates importance of child care programs

Lights On Afterschool: Celebrating the Importance of Child Care Programs

Introduction

In the United States, millions of children spend time in child care programs each year. These programs provide essential services that support working parents and help children learn and grow. Lights On Afterschool is a national campaign that celebrates the importance of child care programs and the role they play in the lives of children, families, and communities.

Benefits of Child Care Programs

Child care programs offer a variety of benefits for children, including:

• Improved academic outcomes
• Increased social skills
• Reduced behavioral problems
• Better physical health
• Increased self-esteem

Child care programs also benefit working parents by providing:

• Peace of mind knowing their children are safe and well-cared for
• Flexibility to work the hours they need to
• Increased earning potential

The Importance of Lights On Afterschool

Lights On Afterschool is a national campaign that celebrates the importance of child care programs and the role they play in the lives of children, families, and communities. The campaign is held each year on the first Wednesday of October. On this day, schools and community centers across the country turn on their lights from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. to show their support for child care programs.

Lights On Afterschool is an important campaign because it helps to raise awareness of the need for high-quality child care programs. The campaign also helps to connect families with the resources they need to find affordable, quality child care. Here are some ways you can get involved with Lights On Afterschool:

• Turn on your lights from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. on the first Wednesday of October.
• Attend a Lights On Afterschool event in your community.
• Donate to a child care program.
• Volunteer your time at a child care program.
• Spread the word about the importance of child care programs.