Ensuring a young person is engaged in meaningful activities outside the classroom is critical to their development and safety. Each year, DFSS funds thousands of afterschool opportunities in community based settings across the city.
Together with a network of community based, out-of-school time providers, DFSS provides thousands of afterschool activities for children and youth, ages 6 to 18. Programming opportunities include sports, arts and culture, academics and technology.

What can kids do once school lets out? DFSS' School Age Child Care Program is a subsidized child care program for children ages 5 to 12. Programs operate when school is not in session including afternoons, holidays and breaks. School-Age Programs nurture the physical, emotional and mental development of children through engaging, age-appropriate activities. Subsidy eligibility is based on family income. Parents of children must be working or enrolled in an education program. Funded programs are required to have an operating license from the State of Illinois.
To find a School Age Child Care Program near you, call 312-823-1100. You will receive a list of programs in your neighborhood. Contact the sites directly; the staff will be happy to explain their enrollment process and services in detail.