Looking up...
a program providing supervision and activities for school-age children outside regular school hours
The city funds after-school care centers to support working parents.
Government-subsidized programs help families with childcare needs.
Our school offers after-school care for students in grades K-5.
The service includes homework help and recreational activities.
Often abbreviated as 'ASC' in educational contexts. May include meals, tutoring, or enrichment activities.
After-school care specifically serves school-age children (typically 5-12 years) and operates during school term time, while daycare serves younger children and may operate year-round.
Use 'after-school care' when referring to school-related supervised programs. For general childcare, 'childcare' or 'daycare' may be more appropriate.
Compound phrase formed from 'after-school' (post-school hours) + 'care' (supervision/support). First attested in educational contexts in the mid-20th century as childcare needs expanded with dual-income households.
Common in North America and parts of Europe. Typically fee-based but may receive government subsidies. Services often include homework assistance, snacks, and recreational activities. Contrast with 'daycare' which serves younger children.