After-school programs provide a valuable service to families across the United States by offering childcare for school-age children after regular school hours. This industry, known as the After-School Program Providers, has experienced steady demand over the past several years. A variety of factors influence demand for these programs, including the number of school-age children, changes in the unemployment rate, and the percentage of single-parent households.
One of the most significant drivers of demand for after-school programs is the number of K-12 students in the United States. According to the US Census Bureau and industry estimates, there are approximately 56.7 million students in grades K-12, and nearly 8.0 million of them are enrolled in after-school programs. As the number of school-age children continues to grow, demand for these programs is expected to rise.
Another key factor driving demand for after-school programs is the increasing number of working mothers. Over the past several decades, women have entered the workforce at higher rates, leading to a greater need for childcare services. Currently, the labor force participation rate among women is estimated at 56.3% by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). As more women enter the workforce and families become busier, the demand for after-school programs is expected to increase.
Household income is also a significant factor in determining demand for after-school programs. Families with higher incomes can afford to spend more on these programs, whereas families with lower incomes may not be able to afford them. Additionally, the unemployment rate can have a significant impact on demand. As unemployment rises, more parents may stay home with their children, decreasing the need for after-school programs. However, as parents return to work, they may have less leisure time available to spend with their children, increasing the likelihood that they will turn to after-school programs.
*Source: IBISWorld – Industry Report OD5884 – After-School Program Providers
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