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OSCAR – Out Of School Care And Recreation
OSCAR Programmes are before school, after school and school holiday programmes, including camps, for children aged 5 to 14.
OSCAR programmes are much more than child-minding services. They are recreation based programmes providing opportunities for children. They aim to meet the needs of children in their out of school hours in a safe and fun way. At OSCAR programmes the care of the child has formally been handed over from the child's parent or caregiver to the OSCAR provider. 
Organisations
OSCAR programmes are predominantly operated by community organisations. These include schools, community centres, parent groups, churches and many others. Some programmes are also run by private providers. These include as sole traders and early childhood centres.
Funding
OSCAR programmes rely on funding. The biggest source of income is parent fees. They also rely on Government funding through MSD with their OSCAR Funding scheme. Many organise their own fundraising to meet costs. A Government subsidy, the OSCAR Subsidy, is available to help parents with fees.
Family Life
Traditional family life in New Zealand is constantly changing. The previous generation grew up in a society where most children went home from school to a parent/caregiver. Children today are growing with parents still at work when they finish their school day.
The trend towards parents/caregivers juggling family life with paid work is a worldwide trend. The OECD estimates that within a generation, the primary responsibility of raising children will have passed from biological parents to the professional.
Benefits of OSCAR
OSCAR programmes provide many benefits to children, their families and communities. A good OSCAR programme will assist in the development of a well rounded child. It can enhance a child's social, emotional, physical, creative, cultural and academic development.
A variety of age appropriate child-centred activities are provided to ensure the child has a relaxed and enjoyable time in a safe and caring environment.
OSCAR programmes give parents peace of mind. They know their children are being cared for in a safe environment and are receiving a positive out of school experience. Parents need quality, affordable out of school care in order to work or study. OSCAR programmes enable parents to participate in the workforce and/or in training.
OSCAR programmes are good for children and families, particularly those from disadvantaged communities. They contribute to improving health and reducing crime, as they are able to provide the support “at the top of the cliff”. Leaving children unsupervised can lead to poor school performance and anti-social behaviour.
Demand for OSCAR
The demand for OSCAR is increasing with changes in society.
- Single parent families are growing
- Families are more mobile
- Grandparents and extended family members are less likely to be available to assist with childcare
- Many two parent families can no longer afford to live on one salary
- More women expect to be able to have a family and remain in paid work
- More awareness of the risks in leaving school-age children on their own for long periods
Overseas Research
Research shows that children who participate in after-school programmes can enjoy the following life benefits:
- Increased academic performance
- Better conduct and work habits
- Better peer relations and emotional adjustment
- Establish lifelong patterns of physical activity
- Increased health and fitness
- Less time watching television
- Conflict management methods
- Better social skills
- Higher self confidence
- Opportunities for the development of social, cultural and recreational skills
- Positive life patterns
- Understanding of cultural background and language
- Help to preventing youth crime
The OSCAR Foundation
The OSCAR Foundation represents, promotes and supports OSCAR services nationwide. They also provide resources, training information, and newsletters. OSCAR programmes are operated independently of The OSCAR Foundation.
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