To determine the status of latchkey programs in the United States, a questionnaire requesting information on actual or pending latchkey programs and legislation was sent to each state superintendent of schools and the secretary of the education committee of the state legislatures in the 50 states. A content analysis of the questionnaire responses…

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)