Last-minute activity-2

Thursday, October 20 marks the 17th annual Lights On After School (LOA). Launched in 2000, LOA is the only nationwide event celebrating after school programs and their important role in the lives of children, families and communities.

Thursday, October 20 marks the 17th annual Lights On After School (LOA). Launched in 2000, LOA is the only nationwide event celebrating after school programs and their important role in the lives of children, families and communities.

The annual event not only highlights the various benefits of after school programs, but it also gives you a chance to showcase your program to community leaders, potential funders and elected officials.

Many programs plan events like site tours, festivals and talent showcases to celebrate Lights On After School. But, if you haven’t quite prepared for the upcoming day, below are some last-minute activities to help you join the celebration:

  • Allow students to decorate the light bulb artwork and put their artwork on display.
  • Host a Family Literacy Night. Invite families to share the importance of literacy and kids and adults reading together. Have students prepare performances based on their favorite books, set up stations with books and associated activities and/or encourage kids and parents to dress up as their favorite book characters.
  • Add your voice to the conversation by signing the petition to protect after school funding. Set a goal to receive X number of signatures and share the petition with parents, teachers, school administrators, community members and more. Then, hold a program-wide celebration to celebrate reaching your goal.
  • Organize a Maker Night to showcase the engaging, hands-on learning that takes place in after school programs. Choose a DIY project or activity, and challenge families to complete it at the event. Share the finished products online using #LightsOnAfterSchool.
  • Host a dance party. After school programs are known to promote health and wellness through sports, dance and other physical activities. To celebrate LOA, play some family-friendly songs, provide water and healthy snacks and invite kids and adults to move and groove.

Lights On After School is a time to celebrate the many ways after school programs impact students, families and communities. The activities provided are quick to plan and easy to implement.

How are you celebrating Lights On After School? Let us know on Facebook and Twitter!