WDYT? After school program or a babysitter?

My 6 yr old goes to an afterschool program at his school 3 days a week. I pay $135.00 a month and if I wanted him to he can go everyday, I just need him to go only the 3 days.

It's coming up to registering him again and I don't know what I should do? He has told me several times that he doesn't like going. He's there with 60 other kids of all ages and he just doesn't like being the youngest. The older kids are rougher and not so nice to the younger ones.

I was contemplating paying a PT sitter to just come on Wednesdays (early release day) so he can be home. I would have to pick him at the bus stop one of the other days and my mom one of the days as well. It would probably cost me about $100.00 a month if I had someone come to my house just for Wednesdays.

I don't know what to do. He wants to be home so bad after school but at the same time I would be paying only $35.00 more for him to be able to go everyday. KWIM?

This past year we did not need him to go any more days other than the 3. I just hate having him go there if he doesn't want to. What do you think? Thanks!

Message edited 6/1/2010 12:58:34 PM.

Re: WDYT? After school program or a babysitter?

I kind of see what you're saying re: the "value" of $100 for a day vs $135 for a week ..........

But think about it, doesn't that 'value' kind of go out the window knowing he's not happy there ?

Re: WDYT? After school program or a babysitter?

He won't be the 'youngest' next year - so that might make a difference.

I'd also consider that the after school program allows some flexibility that a sitter may not. If the sitter is ill on Wednesday.. what happens? If you need to stay a little later on a Monday at work.. will the sitter be able to come last minute?

I'd work with the after care program and find out how they might engage your son more. If they are unwilling to work with you - well then your decision is made much easier.

Good luck!

Re: WDYT? After school program or a babysitter?