Abstract:
This study is a Community-Academic Research Links (CARL) project managed between Before 5 Family Centre, UCC Applied Social Studies Department and the researcher. The aim of the research is to explore the benefits of afterschool club, focusing on children’s social and emotional development. Through a qualitative approach seven interviews were used to examine and analyse parents, staff and school liaisons officer’s perspectives of afterschool club. Literature reviewed revealed that children attending afterschool programmes reap multiple benefits; some areas of development include increased academic achievement, developing peer relationships and increased self-confidence. This evidenced-based research study found that children attending afterschool club demonstrated a positive change in their behaviour, formed new peer relationships, emotional competence and increased social development. The foundations and most influencing factor to these benefits are the positive interactions and attachments children have experienced with staff. As a social work student this study recognises that afterschool services have potentially a significant role to play in families, schools and community services. It is essential to adopt policy implementation, to ensure quality, better outcomes and brighter futures for children.
