Finding reliable and engaging after school care for your children is essential for working parents. Toronto’s After School Recreation Care (ARC) programs offer a fantastic solution, providing a safe, structured, and fun environment for kids after the school day ends. These programs are designed to support families and enrich children’s lives through recreation and social interaction.
What are After School Recreation Care (ARC) Programs?
After School Recreation Care programs, or ARC programs, are offered by the City of Toronto to provide supervised care for children after school hours. These programs are run at various locations across the city, making them accessible to many families. ARC programs focus on creating a positive and enriching experience for children, typically including activities such as games, crafts, outdoor play, and social time with peers. They bridge the gap between school dismissal and the end of the workday, giving parents peace of mind knowing their children are in a supportive and engaging setting.
Registration Details for ARC Programs
Enrolling your child in an ARC program is a straightforward process. Registration is typically required, and it’s important to be aware of key registration periods.
Registration Start Dates
Mark your calendars! Registration for the fall session of ARC programs usually begins in June. If you’re looking to enroll for the winter and spring sessions, registration typically opens in December. It’s recommended to register early as spots can fill up quickly.
How to Register
The City of Toronto offers multiple convenient ways to register for ARC programs. You can register online through the city’s website, offering 24/7 access and ease of use. Alternatively, for those who prefer in-person assistance or telephone support, registration can be completed with the help of a Client Service Representative. Check the City of Toronto Parks & Recreation website for specific dates and detailed instructions for each registration method.
Guaranteed Spot for Winter/Spring
A significant benefit of registering for the fall session is that it often guarantees your child a spot in the winter/spring session as well. This continuous enrollment provides stability and consistent care for your child throughout the school year.
Program Schedule and Fees
ARC programs are designed to align with the school year schedule, offering care during the academic year.
Program Dates and Times
The programs generally run from early September to late June, mirroring the school year calendar. Specifically, for the 2024-2025 year, programs are scheduled from September 3, 2024, to June 20, 2025. Operating hours are Monday to Friday, from school dismissal until 6 p.m. (or 5:40 p.m. at some locations). Please note that programs are closed on PA days, school holidays, and statutory holidays.
Cost and Payment Options
Registration for ARC programs is based on five days per week attendance. The fees are very reasonable, with a daily rate of $3.15 for the Fall 2024 session and $3.26 per day for the Winter/Spring 2025 session. For the entire 2024/2025 program year, the total cost is $585.18. This is broken down into $233.10 for the Fall session and $352.08 for the Winter/Spring session.
While online registration offers streamlined payment options, scheduled payment plans are available through telephone-assisted or in-person registration with a Client Service Representative. It’s important to note that scheduled payments require follow-up with staff to ensure timely processing.
Age Criteria for ARC and CLASP
There are specific age requirements for ARC programs to ensure appropriate grouping and activities for children.
ARC Age Requirements
Children eligible for ARC programs must be in grade one or at least six years old by the program’s start date. The maximum age for participation in ARC programs is 12 years old, reached on or after the program’s first day.
CLASP Age Requirements
In addition to ARC, the City of Toronto also offers CLASP (Childcare Learning and School-age Program) for older children. CLASP programs cater to children aged 10 to 15 years old by the program’s start date.
Fee Subsidy
The City of Toronto is committed to making recreation programs accessible to everyone. Through the Welcome Policy, financial assistance is available for families with low incomes to help cover the cost of ARC programs. Information and application details for the fee subsidy can be found on the City of Toronto’s Welcome Policy page.
Withdrawal and Refund Policy
Understanding the withdrawal policy is important should your circumstances change. To withdraw your child from an ARC program, you need to obtain a Withdrawal Form from the on-site ARC Program Coordinator. Once completed, the form should be submitted to the Coordinator or via email to [email protected]. It’s crucial to submit withdrawal requests at least two weeks before the intended withdrawal date.
Refunds or credits are prorated based on the date the withdrawal request is received. A $13 administration fee is applied per person, per program for all withdrawals. The effective withdrawal date is the date the City receives the notification, regardless of actual attendance. For refund inquiries, you can call 416-396-7378, option 1 for assistance.
Toronto’s After School Recreation Care programs provide a valuable service for families, offering quality care and enriching experiences for children after school. With various locations, reasonable fees, and subsidy options, ARC programs are a great choice for parents seeking reliable and engaging after school care.
