Parent Guide
How After-School Care Supports Working Families
School ends at 2:30. Your work day ends at 6. After-school care isn't just supervision — it's the difference between a frantic afternoon and a child who's already done homework, had a snack, and played with friends by the time you arrive.
What good after-school care actually provides
- A real transition from school: Snack first, then settling in. School-age children arrive hungry and tired.
- Homework support: A quiet space and an adult who can help — so the dinner table isn't a battle later.
- Outdoor and physical play: Most kids have been sitting all day. They need to move.
- Friendships and social time: Kids decompress with friends, not in a silent room.
- Reliable hours: A program that stays open late enough to handle a real commute, without surprise late fees.
What to ask when choosing
- What are the actual hours? What's the late-pickup fee?
- Which elementary schools does the program pick up from?
- What does a typical afternoon look like?
- How is homework handled?
- What happens on Cobb County school holiday days?
- What's included — snack, activities, supplies?
- What's the adult-to-child ratio?
- Are staff trained in CPR and First Aid?
The bilingual advantage
For families with bilingual children, an after-school program with Spanish-speaking staff means your child can be themselves all day — and continue developing both languages naturally.
Help paying for after-school care
Working families with eligibility may qualify for Georgia's Childcare and Parent Services (CAPS) subsidy, which can help cover after-school care costs.
- CAPS subsidy program (DECAL) — eligibility and application
- Find a Quality Rated provider — search Georgia DECAL's public registry
About our after-school program
Marietta Academy's After-School Care serves children ages 5 – 12. Open 2:30 – 6:30 PM weekdays, before-school care available 6:00 – 8:00 AM, pickup from select Cobb County elementary schools, bilingual staff, real snacks, homework support, structured enrichment activities.
Visit Marietta Academy
Ready to See It For Yourself?
Reading helps. Visiting helps more. Free 30-minute tours Monday – Friday at 444 Pat Mell Rd SW, Marietta GA 30060.