Founded in 2007 as a nonprofit organization, Dallas Afterschool’s mission is to increase the quality and availability of afterschool and summer programs in our community. Working with over 800 staff members at 180 sites throughout the Dallas community, Dallas Afterschool informs, trains, supports and evaluates programs collectively serving over 14,000 K-12 grade students.

Wonder Kits started in 2012 after Dallas Afterschool gathered feedback from partner sites about the challenges of implementing larger curriculum in an out-of-school time setting. The main issues programs faced were:

• Lack of time for part-time staff to learn and prep new complicated activities
• Use of rotating volunteers who wanted to lead activities, but were intimidated by bulky curriculum plans
• Limited time to do hands-on activities in addition to facilitating traditional program offerings like homework help

In response, Dallas Afterschool created and designed Wonder Kits to fit the challenges and needs of flexible learning environments like after school programs. Inspired by curiosity, Wonder Kits are ready to ignite a love of learning with only 10 minutes of prep time. Wonder Kits contain materials needed to run a hands-on, engaging activity for up to 25 students and feature easy to follow instructions, a how-to video and tips to make every project a learning opportunity for both activity leaders and students.

By ordering a Wonder Kit, you are playing a vital role in giving children across Texas, and beyond, access to informal STEM, Language Arts, and Arts. Thank you for helping Dallas Afterschool make out-of-school time better!