Students from all over the area have been having fun at Clearview Elementary Kidstop this summer, participating in activities that include field trips, playing games and creating art projects.

 

Kidstop is part of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Minnesota, and is a school-age child care program for K-6. During the academic year students attend after school, where they’re served a snack, participate in activities and get help with their homework. During the summer the program is open from 6:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. 

 

Kidstop is a fee-based program, charging $10 per day during the school year and $25 a day during the summer. Parents only pay for the days their child attends.

 

“We have one staff member for every 15 kids,” explained Program Manager Karisa Becker. “A lot of our staff are St. Cloud State University students, many of which are attending college for education, psychology or social work.”

 

During the school year kids must be attending Clearview to participate, however during the summer kids from all over the area are welcome, with many coming from Annandale and Becker.

 

Once students have finished seventh grade, Kidstop offers a junior volunteer program, where participants have the opportunity to aid the regular staff.

 

July 6 students took part in cooking club, where they made patriotic pretzels for their afternoon snack to celebrate the 4th of July.

 

Kidstop accepts new students throughout the year. Parents interested in learning more or registering their children can visit www.bgcmn.org/kidstop/overview or call 320-252-7616.