Q. I'm a working parent and I want my children involved in an afterschool program. How can I tell which programs are good ones?

A. Well, we operate both before- and afterschool programs, so we've given a lot of thought to what makes these programs good.

		Parenting with 4 Kids A community service project of Heritage Health Foundation, the nationally accredited 4 Kids Early Learning Network serves children and families throughout the Mon Valley. In this column, 4 Kids staff members answer reader questions about raising children in the critical early years. E-mail questions to: questions@4kidsearlyed.org, or mail to: 4 Kids Questions, 445 Fourth St., Braddock PA 15104.

We recommend that you first have phone conversations with the directors of several programs. Then, if possible, carve out some time to visit two or three "finalist" programs -- seeing them in person will tell you more than any phone call can.

During your calls and visits, here are some questions to ask:

• How responsive is the program to the needs -- academic, social, and others -- of the children served?

• Does the program encourage parent involvement? If so, in what ways? And how does the program communicate with parents?

• Does the program have partnerships with local community organizations -- for instance, in the arts? The library? The Y's?

• Is the environment, physical and emotional, safe, welcoming, cheerful, and nurturing?

• Are there organized, structured activities: physical, cultural, recreational, and academic?

• What is the ratio of staff members to students? You want to be sure there are enough adults around.

• Who are the staff members? Are they knowledgeable and experienced? Do they work well as a team? Do they embrace diversity? Do they engage students and families?

• Are there opportunities for the students to participate in activities around mentoring, peer support, leadership-building, and skill-building?

• Does the program encourage healthy lifestyles? For example, does it include healthful snacks and some physical activity?

• Is the program fun? You want your kids to look forward to the program each day.

Good luck! We hope you find exactly the right program for your children.

4 Kids has gathered more than 100-plus family activities and children's health information into a new book. "Raising Your Young Child in the Real World" is available for a $7.95 shipping/handling fee. Order with a check to Heritage Health Foundation, 445 Fourth St., Braddock, PA 15104, or call 412-351-0535 to use a credit card.