This year, more than 15 million children will participate in an after-school program if available in their community (Importance). After school programs are open before and after school hours, children participate in the program up to five hours a day while attending school (Afterschool). The After-School Learning and Safe Neighborhood Program was initiated by the Legislature in 1998, which provides funds to establish local after-school education and enrichment programs. The program was later modified in 2002 and changed its name to the After-School Education and Safety Program (NAEYC). After-school programs provide care to children before and/or after school. Programs are sponsored by schools, places of worship or child care centers. Children between the ages of five and ten most often attend after-school programs, students participate in finishing homework, playing games and taking part in other activities (Afterschool). After-school programs provide parents with a safe and reliable way to allow their children to participate in a program that engages them in education instead of leaving them at home alone without adult supervision (Education). After-school programs provide care and education to children before they enter kindergarten and during out-of-school time and are found in many settings. (NAEYC) The most significant change in American family life has been a rapid increase in children's participation in child care and after-school programs (NAEYC). There are many positives when it comes to placing a child in an after-school program. After-school programs can improve children's academic achievement, increase interest and ability in reading, develop new skills or interests, improve school attendance, increase … the center of the paper … the school district. 2011. Network. September 21, 2011. Mister, Judy. “Chapter 29 Programs for School-Age Children.” Working with young children. Tinley Park, IL: Goodheart-Wilcox, 2004. 449-59. Print."The importance of after-school programs | Education.com." Education.com | A child education and development site for parents | Parenting and educational resources. American Association of School Administrators, 2006. Web. September 21, 2011. “NAEYC Position Statement on Developing and Implementing Effective Public Policies to Promote Accreditation of Early Childhood and School-Age Care Programs.” http://www.naeyc.org/files/naeyc/file/positions/psacrpol. pdf. National Association for the Education of Young Children, 1999. Web. September 21. 2011.