After School Programming

Norristown Afterschool Program

​Serving students in 1st through 4th grades, Girls First runs Monday through Thursday afternoons until 6:00 p.m. We offer a full meal daily and creative studies in dance, visual arts, drama, music, utilizing a trauma informed approach. Each programming day includes snack/meal time and conversation (Chew and Chat), gentle stretching/high-energy exercises and gentle breathing, 45-minute small group arts-based activities, and student-led play and homework/academic enrichment time.

Dynamic, Arts-Based Enrichment

At Girls First, we provide a safe and stable environment where students practice respect for self and others, exercise appropriate interactions with peers and adults, discover new skills and talents, and develop tools that will allow them to achieve greater success in school and beyond.

At the core of all of our programs are creative explorations led by caring mentors, experienced teaching artists, and local community partners.

Through engaging creative experiences, our students foster critical life skills such as communication, problem-solving, and resilience. A key focus is on nurturing a positive self-image and empowering girls to recognize their unique strengths and potential.

Our Programs are Designed to Help Students

Feel Supported & Secure

While building positive relationships

Learn New Skills

Social, emotional, academic, and creative

Build their confidence

Regulation, efficacy, empathy, and agency

Break Cycles of Adversity

By increasing resilience and perseverance

Who Should Apply

Girls entering 1st, 2nd, 3rd, or 4th grade in the fall who demonstrate a dedication to learning, a commitment to being a good friend, and an adventurous and creative spirit. This program is offered at no cost to families, but a strong commitment to attendance and participation is required.

Requirements

  • Submit an application between May and September (space is limited)
  • Parents/guardians must attend an orientation session in September
  • Students must maintain a minimum 80% attendance rate 
  • Students must commit to attend the entire program year (October - May)
  • Students may not be picked up before 6:00pm on a regular basis
  • Students must follow rules as outlined in the Behavior Contract

Teaching Artists Apprentices

Integral to our program are Girls First’s Teaching Artist Apprentices(TAA). The Apprenticeship Program provides trauma-informed training for teaching artists to create and support equitable learning environments through arts-based explorations that integrate academic and social-emotional skill building. Apprentices are hired annually for the duration of one, or more, program year.

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Community Partners

24/25 School Year Community Partner Spotlights

Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania

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The Clay Studio Philadelphia

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Ree's & Kei's Mobile Cooking Teachers

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24/25 Maple Tree Awardee - Community Partner of the Year

- Community Partner of the Year

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My Favorite Thing About Girls First Is.....

"Music, because we get to talk about our emotions and write songs about our emotions."

"They have everything that I really like to do here; you should really come!"

"If we're dealing with something, the teachers are really kind and give us breaks."

"Making friends! When I first came, I was I was alone, then I was was, like, we should make friends."

"I really like singing because I like music, but I also like art, and drama helps my acting skills!"

"Music, because we get to talk about our emotions and write songs about our emotions."

We Love Girls First!