After School Program FAQs
What grade level does my child need to be in?The Kids@MUN and Johnson Geo Centre after school program accepts children enrolled in Grades 1-6 English and French Immersion.
What will my child do while at the after school program?
Our program will provide a fun learning environment, as well as promote healthy living with physical activity and nutritional snacks. Children will receive homework help in English or French, as well as participate in fun learning activities with a different theme each day of the week. Children will be grouped according to grade level, with Grades 1-3 and Grades 4-6 alternating between homework help and a healthy balance of exciting learning activities in the beautiful Johnson Geo Centre. We’ll provide a schedule of theme-based activities at the start of each week.
When does the after school program run?
The after school program runs from school dismissal through pick-up at 5:30 p.m. Registration is offered on a semester basis. The first semester is Sept. 13 to Dec. 21.
What happens after registration?
Prior to your child starting the after school program, a child/parent information package will be mailed to you. This will include detailed information on after school program policies and procedures, as well as consent forms for parents to complete and return to the Division of Lifelong Learning (or Kids@MUN staff) on the first day of the program.
What are the drop off and pick up times?
Children start the program at the end of their school day and parents can pick their children up any time before 5:30 p.m. Children may be dropped off to the Johnson Geo Centre by parents. Bus transportation will be provided (at additional cost) from Mary Queen of Peace Elementary and Macdonald Drive Elementary in the afternoon and will be supervised by a Kids@MUN staff member.
What happens at drop off and pick up times?
For parents dropping their child off directly to the Johnson Geo Centre, we ask that you sign your child in upon arrival. We assume that whoever signs in a child at drop-off will also collect them at pick-up time. If this is not the case, please inform a staff member at the sign-in desk of the alternative arrangement. For children travelling to the program by bus from designated schools, we ask that parents sign-out their child at pick-up time.
What if my child is sick?
If your child is sick we ask that you notify the Division of Lifelong Learning at 864-7979 so that Kids@MUN staff will know not to expect your child.
Where will the program be held?
Kids@MUN after school program is held in the Johnson Geo Centre on Signal Hill Road. The program will be held primarily in the Quidi Vidi/Gibbet Hill rooms, and on some occasions, the Celestial Gallery. Drop-off and pick-up will take place within a designated area in the lobby. Signage will be posted at the Johnson Geo Centre to ensure everyone finds their way!
Will my French-immersion child speak French while at the after school program?
Children enrolled in French Immersion in school will participate in theme-based learning activities alongside English students in our program. The only difference is that they will receive homework help in French. The instructor will encourage children to speak the language as best they can while completing homework in a fun and supportive environment. This program is a great way for kids to recall, reinforce and improve their French skills during homework time.
Will my child be required to bring a snack?
Children will receive a nutritious after school snack at our program. However, if parents prefer to pack snacks for their child, they are welcome to do so. All children are encouraged to bring a drink or refillable water container, especially for use during activities. Kids@MUN and the Johnson Geo Centre maintain a peanut, strawberry, kiwi and seafood-free environment.
What type of clothing does my child need to bring?
Homework help and most theme-based activities will take place indoors, but please ensure to pack appropriate outerwear in the event that activities are moved outdoors. Comfortable footwear is always recommended.
What about sunscreen?
Please send a bottle of sunscreen along with your child in the event that activities take place outdoors on sunny days. All bottles should be labelled with child’s name. Staff will assist them in applying sunscreen as needed. A sun hat is also recommended.
What should my child NOT bring to camp?
Kids@MUN and the Johnson Geo Centre discourages bringing valuables such as electronic devices, MP3 players, iPods, iPhones, cell phones, personal gaming devices/games (PSP, DS, DSi), etc. If it is essential for your child to have a cell phone, we require that the phone is handed to a Kids@MUN staff member. The Division of Lifelong Learning, Johnson Geo Centre, and after school staff are not responsible for lost or stolen items.
What if my child loses something?
We cannot guarantee the return of lost property, but we ask that all clothing and bags are clearly labelled with your child’s name to help us return items to you.
How many staff will supervise the children?
Our Kids@MUN after school program maintains a low children-to-instructor ratio with a maximum of 12 children per grade level grouping (Grades 1-3 and 4-6). We offer this small group size to maximize interaction between children and staff.
Are after school program staff experienced?
We know that the key to running a successful after school program is to employ great staff! All staff members are certified in Standard First Aid and CPR, and possess an up-to-date certificate of conduct. Staff will be qualified in, or studying towards, post-secondary degrees which may include education, childcare, or leisure. They are experienced in making learning fun, and modifying lessons and activities for the needs of the students. The coordinator who oversees the Kids@MUN after school programming and who will be your main point of contact, is a qualified and experienced primary/elementary educator.
