Presents some of the major concerns and challenges faced by parents, employers, and the community as a whole in providing quality after-school (and summer) child care programs for elementary school-aged ("latchkey") children. Adequately trained staff and activities providing for children's physical, emotional, and social needs are important. (BB)

Discusses mentoring as a professional development strategy to meet the needs of experienced and novice practitioners. Defines mentoring and differentiates it from supervision. Discusses the following aspects of early childhood mentoring programs: (1) goals and assumptions; (2) design and structure, including mentor qualifications and training; (3)…