Park and recreation agencies play an integral part in the lives of many families — especially when it comes to childcare. Nine in 10 adults recognize the importance of these before- and afterschool programs in their local community. Seventy-two percent of people say these programs are “very” or “extremely” important. Before- and afterschool programs hosted by the local park and recreation agency allow kids to have a place to learn, socialize and have fun. For parents, this valuable resource gives them peace of mind that their child is safe and being looked after while they work.

Key Findings

• Ninety percent of U.S. residents agree before- and afterschool programs provided by local park and recreation agencies are important.
• Seventy-two percent of U.S. residents indicate before- and afterschool programs provided by local park and recreation agencies are "very" or "extremely" important.
• Every major demographic group agrees on the importance of before- and afterschool programs provided by local park and recreation agencies, including:
  • Parents (93 percent) and non-parents (89 percent)
  • Males (88 percent) and females (92 percent)
  • Millennials (93 percent), Gen Xers (89 percent) and baby boomers (88 percent)
  • Household income less than $35,000 per year (91 percent) and household income more than $100,000 per year (90 percent)
  • Hispanic adults (95 percent), black adults (99 percent) and white adults (88 percent)