Community centers (matnasim) in Ashkelon: after-school clubs and day care for kids

Tzaharon (after-school day care) runs from the end of classes, generally until 16:00 — the exact time and cost vary by school and grade, and registration is through the municipal company's website or directly at the neighborhood community center. Separately, clubs are offered in soccer, basketball, dance, music and other activities for various ages.

You can register for a club or tzaharon through the 'Ironit Ashkelon' website (under the clubs section) or at the regional 'Hof Ashkelon' center's office in the Bat Hadar quarter, where current schedules and open spots can also be confirmed.

How to choose between tzaharon and an after-school club

• Tzaharon — extended day after school, usually until 16:00, on the school's and class's own schedule
• Clubs — football, basketball, dance, music and other activities not tied to the school timetable
• Registration — via the 'Ironit Ashkelon' website or directly at the neighborhood matnas

Tzaharon cost and exact hours vary by school and grade, so check the terms for your specific school rather than going by a general description of the program. At the Hof Ashkelon community center in Bat Hadar you can check club availability and register for tzaharon in the same visit if a family needs both.