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| OSCAR programmes provide a number of benefits to children, their families and communities at large. A good OSCAR programme will assist and enhance a child's social, emotional, physical, creative, cultural and academic development. It will provide a variety of age appropriate child-centred activities that will ensure the child has a relaxed and enjoyable time in a safe and caring environment.
In order to work or study, parents need quality, affordable out of school care. The alternative of leaving children unsupervised can lead to poor school performance and anti-social behaviour. OSCAR programmes enable parents to participate in the workforce, in training and in community activities with peace of mind, knowing that their children are being cared for in a safe environment and are receiving a positive out of school experience.
There is often a measurable saving in negative expenditure due to improved health and reduced crime when an OSCAR service is able to provide the support “at the top of the cliff”. |
The Benefits of OSCAR
After many years involvement within the OSCAR sector, Tina Green, Operations Manager for The OSCAR Foundation, has written an article on her personal view of the benefits of OSCAR.
Full report...
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It is no surprise to those that work and volunteer in programmes that there is documented evidence that OSCAR programmes are good for children and families, particularly those from disadvantaged communities.
Overseas research has shown:
 Children who participate in after-school programmes have increased academic performance. Research on children from low income families has found that children who participate in formal after school programmes have higher academic grades, better conduct and work habits, and better peer relations and emotional adjustment compared to children in other informal care arrangements.
Out of school care programmes can assist in establishing lifelong patterns of physical activity which will in turn increase the health and fitness of young people, so reducing negative public expenditure and contributing to the physical and mental well-being of the whole of society.
Health benefits include a lessened risk of teenage parenthood, substance abuse and eating problems. Children are more likely to become involved in fitness activities. Also, children who attend OSCAR programmes spend less time watching television and are less likely to watch unsuitable television.
Through positive interactions with supportive adults at OSCAR programmes, children learn how to handle conflict better, learn better social skills and grow in self confidence.
OSCAR programmes provide opportunities for the development of social, cultural and recreational skills and positive life patterns. They also provide opportunities for children and young people to develop their understanding of and experience their own cultural background and language.
OSCAR programmes make a substantial contribution to preventing youth crime. This occurs by ‘Keeping them (young people) off the streets'. During afternoon hours, when children and young people are not at school, rates of juvenile crime go up
The demand for OSCAR is increasing. Some of the reasons for this include:
The number of single parent families is growing
Families are more mobile. Grandparents and other 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
There is more awareness of the risks in leaving school-age children on their own for long periods
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