Finding the right after-school program can make all the difference in a child’s growth, confidence and interests.
That’s why Noozhawk’s ParentNooz After School Activities Guide brings together a variety of local programs that keep kids active, engaged and inspired long after the school day ends.
As part of this year’s guide, we sat down with the people behind some of Santa Barbara’s leading after-school organizations to learn what makes their programs unique.
Through these Q&As, parents can gain insight into each program’s mission, teaching philosophy and the experiences children can expect.
For this feature, we spoke with Cary Gren, Events Director at Ice in Paradise, about how the organization’s classes support children’s emotional growth, physical development, and academic achievement.
Ice in Paradise
Question: What variety of afterschool activities do you offer to students?
Answer: We offer continuous Learn to Skate classes for all levels and ages through our Learn to Skate program. Our Success Center offers workstations and wi-fi so our student skaters can work on academics between skating sessions or lessons. They can also schedule to meet with one of our volunteer tutors.
Q: Which age groups can participate in your afterschool programs?
A: Our afterschool Learn to Skate classes accommodate the ages of 3-18 years old. The Success Center is open to students of all ages who need extra study time or help with homework.
Q: In what ways do your activities support children’s developmental growth?
A: Through our Learn to Skate classes, children’s physical development improves through movement and involvement with a sport. Skating also supports children’s emotional growth by learning responsibility and tackling multiple step goals. Our Success Center balances this by allowing students to grow academically without sacrificing their skating time.
Q: What sets your afterschool programs apart from others in the community?
A: Our programs are unique in that they offer the dual availability of practicing a sport while simultaneously giving access to free academic services with tutors.
Q: Could you share a few success stories or parent/student testimonials about your programs?
A: Our daughter started going to the Success Center about a year ago to help catch up in some areas of academics. They are so accommodating and absolutely wonderful! They customized her support by utilizing specific programs we requested. They welcome new approaches and are very flexible, prioritizing each child’s need.
The staff genuinely care about the kids needing help. With their help my daughter was able to catch up and also excel in the areas she was struggling due to their support. She worked mostly with Alicia and Rose, who are exceptional. They put so much time and effort into helping her understand problems and steps. I highly recommend the Success Center. It’s an amazing resource and has built a community for my daughter. She loves learning there!
Q: What steps do you take to ensure the safety and well-being of children during program hours?
A: The staff at Ice in Paradise prioritizes children’s safety by obtaining safety certifications, first aid training, and providing free helmets for use while skating. In addition, our coaching staff teach safety on the ice as a fundamental skill.
Question: How do you integrate educational components into your afterschool activities?
A: Alongside the Success Center’s presence as a source of academic achievement, three times a year we offer another afterschool program called Science on Skates which teaches STEM lessons based on skating and the ice rink’s facilities.
Q: Can you walk us through a typical day or session in your program?
A: Children are greeted at the front desk and signed in for class. Once skates are on, they can head towards the ice to find a white board with their class time and coach. After a 30 minute lesson, students are welcome to stay for family skate or exit the ice.
Q: How do you help children who may feel shy or reluctant to join in?
A: If a child is feeling shy or hesitant to join, one of our coaches will work with them one on one to build trust. In the younger aged classes, coaches also play games and use toys to encourage interaction in slow, small steps.
Q: How do you keep parents informed about their child’s progress and experiences?
A: Our Learn to Skate program has continuous eight week sessions. On every 4th week, there is a progress report given to parents and students. And, on the 8th week, certificates of achievement are given to those who are moving on to the next skating level.
Q: Are there any special events, showcases, or seasonal highlights kids can look forward to?
A: Every year at Ice in Paradise, we have a Holiday Show which showcases skaters of all ages and levels. We also host a yearly competition as well as opportunities to participate in recitals.
Click here to learn more about Ice in Paradise!