The school year is headed toward us full steam ahead, which means it's time to start thinking about afterschool programs in Boston. Families looking for affordable (or even free) programs for Boston kids have lots to choose from. From sports to arts, academics to theater, there are programs for your kids, no matter their age or interests. Check out our picks for free and cheap afterschool programs in Boston!

School doesn't have to end when the bell rings; there are plenty of free and inexpensive options for enrichment in Philadelphia's after-school programs. If you’re looking for a fun and educational way for your kids to spend their late afternoons and early evenings, you’ll be happy to hear that after-school programs don’t have to break the bank. These programs are a great way to help kids stay ahead of their schoolwork, and also hone in on their specific interests.

Looking for more classes for Philly kids? Check out our Classes Guide for more great learning opportunities. If you've got a sports lover, we've rounded up the Best Sports Classes for Kids, too!

After-school programs are a great way for Westchester and Hudson Valley kids to learn new skills, get help with their homework, and have fun with their friends. These programs are also essential for working and commuting parents. 

To help, we’ve rounded up a handful of after-school programs in Westchester and the Hudson Valley that can be a great starting point. Even better—all the programs listed here are either FREE or on the less-expensive side.

For even more after-school programs, check out our full Classes Guide for Westchester Kids and our Back to School Guide. 

Afterschool programs provide safe solutions by keeping kids mentally stimulated, providing homework assistance, and allowing social interaction among peers in a supervised environment. Atlanta afterschool programs also help parents with the daunting process of juggling kids’ school schedules with work schedules.

To make this process simpler, we’ve rounded up cheap afterschool programs (some of which are FREE) for kids and teens all around the Atlanta area. Some of these afterschool options, including programs offered through school districts and non-profit organizations, provide transportation to a central location.

Even the most creative parents on Long Island know the value of quality after-school programs. Kids learn valuable skills, social tools, and critical thinking under the supervision of caring, qualified adults. Here are some of our favorite affordable after-school programs for kids on Long Island. You might be surprised to learn many of these classes and programs fall within a conservative budget.

While you're at it, check out our rundown of great STEM classes for Long Island kids and our Long Island Classes and Enrichment Guide.

We've put together a list of reasonably priced and FREE after-school programs around New Jersey that offer enrichment and entertainment for children.

Many after-school programs start enrollment in May and fill up quickly, so be sure to mark your calendar in the spring so you don't forget to sign your kids up. Remember to always check your local school district, as some of the options offered by your town can be low-cost for those who are eligible and could be most convenient for your family. 

Find more great ideas for the coming school year in our Guide to Classes for New Jersey Kids and our Back-to-School Guide. 

Orlando kids are back in school, and that means afterschool programs for families with working parents looking for affordable options. We've rounded up several options for cheap, afterschool programs in Orlando, and some are even available at no cost! These afterschool programs in Orlando offer engaging activities such as academic support, sports, STEM, and more, within a fun and safe environment.

Affordable afterschool programs in Chicago can be hard to find, especially with rising prices everywhere. It's important for working parents to have a safe, fun, and educational environment for their kids before and after school, so we've done the work for you and come up with a list of free or cheap afterschool programs in Chicago. Several of these afterschool programs offer hardship assistance, scholarships, or free tuition.

Many of the aftercare options on the list below offer sports, games, mentorship, STEM activities, career planning, homework help, and more. And for more classes for Chicago kids and babies, check out our Best Classes for Kids in Chicago Guide.