For more information or questions, don't hesitate to get to email Kathy Martens Martensk@sfumc.org
Please consider partnering with us to help the children by giving a financial gift now.
Our Mission
To be the safe, nurturing and learning place of choice for children in Central Sioux Falls.
Our Program
KIDSTOP is an after-school and summer program. The Pettigrew Heights neighborhood is known to be culturally diverse and has been identified as an economically low to moderate income neighborhood with underserved individuals and families who need assistance. Our Mission at Kidstop: To be a safe, nurturing and learning place of choice for children in central Sioux Falls.
We help these families with childcare needs and give the children the experience of belonging, nurturing, and learning to grow into the adults they aspire to be in an environment that is free of worry.
As Kidstop is a free program operating at the First United Methodist Church since 1989. We are a fully licensed program with the state. Our goal is to provide safe transportation from school to our program. We can pick up from Lowell, Garfield, Laura Wilder Elementary schools, and Edison Middle School as parents and guardians finish their workday. We also provide tutoring and homework help, socialization skills, fitness, and enriched programming. Kidstop is also open on non-school days from 12 pm-4 pm. Kidstop’s Summer program runs from 12:00 pm -4:00 pm, during the summer months. Kidstop is closed for all legal Holidays.
Location
401 South Spring
Sioux Falls, SD 57106
Our Daily Schedule
2:45-3:00 We pick up the Kids at school and transport them back to Kidstop
3:00-3:15 wash hands and have a healthy snack.
3:15-3:45 reading and meet with tutors
4:00-5:00- activities, homework, gym.
5:00-5:30- clean-up, behavioral charts/pick-up
On Tuesdays, the First Church Children's Ministry Coordinator comes in and reads with a group of children
The church has a full-size gym and library that the staff and children use regularly.
Kidstop has experienced teachers who have completed all the required training and have a variety of educational backgrounds.
Kidstop has been a huge help for me as a single parent. Because of those who give, we can have our kids taken care of after school by a place like Kidstop with teachers who care about our kids and their futures, without Kidstop and the generosity of those who give. I don't know where or how I could work.
Testimonials
Kidstop has been a blessing for my son and me. I am absolutely thrilled with the quality of care he receives and the staff's professionalism. I know my son is in a safe environment and participating in various activities. I am thankful for everything they do to make my family’s life easier and more enjoyable.
Craig B. Kidstop Parent.
As a single parent, one of the biggest challenges was finding quality care for my child while still being able to afford to work. When I discovered the Kidstop program and toured it I could hardly believe that it was confirmed that it was free. I pick her up and she had a snack, her homework is done, and she had a fun time, and I did not have to worry about her. ! Kidstop has really made a BIG difference in our lives these past 2 years.
Ervin T.
