CENTRE COUNTY — While school days are action packed, the afterschool part of the day can be just as important for children’s learning and growth.
According to the America After 3 p.m. study completed in 2020 by the After School Alliance, only 11% of Pennsylvania students — 21,257 youth — were enrolled in afterschool programs. This number was a decrease from 17% when the study was previously completed in 2014. While pandemic restrictions impacted enrollment in afterschool programing, the number has yet to return to the former 2014 study results. The study noted that parents found afterschool programs and activities to help to:
• Build life skills
• Support homework completion
• Engage in STEM learning opportunities
• Provide physical activities
• Offer healthy snacks and meals
Whether you are looking for an afterschool activity to do with your children, or a program to register in, here are some ideas for afterschool activities in Centre County.
Discovery Space
Discovery Space is a hands-on science museum designed for children and families to explore and learn about science, technology, engineering and math.
“Our mission at Discovery Space is to provide engaging science experiences that spark creativity, curiosity and imagination,” Michele Crowl, executive director, said in an introductory video on YouTube about the nonprofit.
The space has interactive exhibits and afterschool programming so children can learn through play.
For more information, visit discoveryspace.org.
Millbrook Marsh Nature Center
The Millbrook Marsh Nature Center is a 62-acre wetland preserve that offers environmental education programs for children and families. The after-school programs at Millbrook Marsh allow kids to explore the natural world through guided nature walks, hands-on activities and wildlife observation. The center’s programs focus on topics such as ecology, conservation and the local ecosystem, helping children develop an appreciation for nature and the environment.
From Wednesday, Aug. 28, through Wednesday, Sept. 25, and from Wednesday, Oct. 2, through Wednesday, Dec. 25, the center will host Marsh-ology every Wednesday. Centre Region Parks and Recreation’s website notes the program will be from 2 to 4 p.m. and is for children ages 8 to 15.
“A new scientific topic will be explored during each program, from animal flight to the weirdness of water,” the website noted.
For more information on afterschool programing activities, visit crpr.org/mmnc-public-programs.
Nittany Valley Sports Centre
Nittany Valley Sports Centre is an indoor sports facility that offers sports programs for children, including after-school activities.
“As the premier indoor sports facility in State College, our mission is to foster an inclusive environment that brings together families, athletes, and the wider community for active and enjoyable experiences. At The Centre, we welcome athletes of all ages, from children to adults. We take pride in being locally owned and operated, serving the Central Pennsylvania area with dedication,” the website noted.
In addition to its specific sports programs, it offers camps throughout the school year which include basketball, dodgeball, kickball, lacrosse, soccer and volleyball.
For more information, visit thecentrepa.com.
YMCA of Centre County
The YMCA of Centre County offers a comprehensive after-school program that includes a mix of recreational, educational and social activities. Children can participate in sports, arts and crafts, swimming and wellness programs, all designed to promote physical health and personal growth.
The curriculum covers “art, creative dramatics, construction, science and discovery, cooking, music, recreational and cooperative games, outdoor games and activities, enrichment activities, homework assistance, free play and experiential learning,” according to the YMCA website.
For more information, visit ymcaofcentrecounty.org.
