Looking for After School Care in Chandler

You might ask some moms in the neighborhood if they watch kids after school. I know a number do in my neighborhood. And usually they just watch a couple other kids besides their own.

Also, make sure you check these moms out like you would any childcare provider. Get references and go with your gut. Good luck.

Arizona Moms Editor Yvette Armendariz shares stories about raising her kids and tips for busy parents in her Time-starved (goddess) Mom blog. She and her husband are raising two children, ages 8 and 11.

The program at your child's school is well thought of by the parents I know who use it. Kindergarteners typically are not with the bigger kids but in an area or classroom of their own, so there won't be any more kids than are in your child's regular class. Also, there are structured activities that are appropriate for developmental age as well as in line with the school's curriculum. I'd give it a try. If the child needs help academically, the staff is trained to help.

Karina Bland is raising her 9-year-old son in Tempe with a lot of love, humor and support from her friends and family. A longtime journalist covering child welfare and education issues for The Arizona Republic, she blogs about raising good kids.