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PARENTS AND GUARDIANS

At Idaho Out-of-School Network (ION), we believe that learning doesn’t stop when the school day ends. High-quality out-of-school programs provide safe, engaging environments where children can explore their interests, build new skills, and grow socially and emotionally.

This page is designed to help families like yours find trusted programs and helpful resources to support your child’s development—before school, after school, during breaks, and all year long.

Find a Youth Program:

Looking for a program near you? Use our interactive tool to search for out-of-school opportunities by location, age group, and area of interest.
Programs - Search Listings

Why Quality Matters

The “Idaho Building Blocks for Out-of-School Time Quality” provide a baseline of quality and are the foundation from which to build quality programming for school-age programs including: before school, after-school, summer learning, clubs, sports, and other youth programming.
Children in quality programs are more likely to succeed academically, build strong social skills, and develop confidence that lasts a lifetime.
Not all programs are created equal. A high-quality out-of-school program:
  • Prioritizes safety and well-being
  • Builds positive relationships between youth and mentors
  • Offers hands-on, engaging learning experiences
  • Encourages creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking

FEATURE RESOURCES FOR FAMILIES

We’ve curated resources to help you support your child at home and in the community. Whether you’re looking for physical activities, reading ideas, or ways to boost your child’s emotional resilience—we’ve got you covered.

Health & Fitness

Active bodies, healthy minds

Literacy

Building a love for reading and storytelling

STEM

Science, technology, engineering, and math made fun

Social & Emotional Learning

Helping kids understand and manage emotions

SEE ALL RESOURCES
Two young brothers at an Idaho After School Activity

What Parents Are Saying

Have a story to share? We’d love to hear from you.

James T., Idaho Falls

“Thanks to ION, we discovered a summer camp that our son loved. He came home every day excited to tell us what he learned.”

Family Survey Respondent- Idaho

“We love both afterschool and Friday school. My daughter has learned so much and she actually really enjoys it! I will definitely keep her in the program as long as it’s offered, and I hope the kiddos can be offered these programs for many years to come.”

Monica R., Boise

“My daughter found her passion for robotics through an ION-connected after-school program. It’s more than just childcare—it’s an investment in her future.”

Lisa T., Coeur d'Alene

“My son needed motivation to be more active afterschool, I am always working those hours 3-5pm and by the time we have dinner and get homework done in the evenings, we don’t feel like exercising. He started in the community afterschool program and is feeling so much better, not just physically, but overall.”

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