Zapz Academy • After‑School Program
After‑School Instructor Guide
This guide is for after‑school instructors, tutors, and program staff. It gives you clear steps, routines, and tools so you can run safe, structured, and engaging sessions with Zapz Academy.
What This Guide Covers
Daily flow • Group management • Activity structure • Safety & expectations • Communication with families
Program Goals
The Zapz Academy After‑School Program is designed to:
- Provide a safe, structured space after school
- Support homework, reading, and core skills
- Build confidence, life skills, and independence
- Offer low‑prep, high‑impact activities for staff
Daily Flow Overview
Use this sample structure to keep each day predictable and calm:
- Arrival & Check‑In (10–15 minutes)
Greet students, take attendance, quick mood check. - Snack & Transition (10–15 minutes)
Quiet snack time, simple conversation, bathroom break. - Homework / Quiet Work Block (20–30 minutes)
Homework help, reading, or independent practice. - Zapz Activity Block (20–30 minutes)
Use Zapz activities, games, or group lessons. - Closing Circle (5–10 minutes)
Reflection, wins of the day, reminders for tomorrow.
Using Zapz Activities
Zapz activities are designed to be low‑prep and flexible. You can use them with individuals, small groups, or the whole program.
- Choose 1–2 activities per day
- Read the card or instructions out loud
- Model the first example if needed
- Walk around and support students as they work
Group Management & Expectations
Clear expectations help students feel safe and know what to do.
- Post 3–5 simple rules (kind, safe, respectful, listening, trying)
- Use calm, consistent reminders
- Offer choices when possible (“This or that”)
- Notice and praise positive behavior out loud
Supporting Different Learners
Students come with different needs, energy levels, and learning styles. These strategies help you support everyone.
- Offer quiet spaces for students who need calm
- Give step‑by‑step instructions instead of long explanations
- Pair students who can help each other
- Allow movement breaks when possible
Safety & Checkout
Safety is the top priority in every session.
- Follow your site’s sign‑in and sign‑out procedures
- Know who is allowed to pick up each student
- Keep emergency contacts accessible
- Report concerns to your program director
Communicating with Families
Strong communication builds trust with families and helps students succeed.
- Share wins and positive moments regularly
- Let families know about important dates or changes
- Use simple, clear language
- Direct families to the Parent Information page for details