Best Practices

Basic Elements of Quality Programming
National Institute of Out-of-School Time. Read More

Leave Them Wanting More!: Engaging Youth in Afterschool
In this commentary (PDF), M. Elena Lopez explores the different dimensions along which afterschool programs can engage youth and offers promising practices for afterschool programs to do this well. Read More

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Resources for Supporting LGBTQ

• Guide for supporting LGBTQ Youth - Read More

• Out Safe and Respected - a guide to LGBT youth in schools   Read More

Stop Bullying Resources
Schools are a primary place where bullying can happen. Helping to establish a supportive and safe school climate where all students are accepted and knowing how to respond when bullying happens are key to making sure all students are able to learn and grow.  Read More

“This Is Their House, Too”: An Afterschool Space Designed for and by Teenagers In this case study (PDF), Deepa Vasudevan and Jessica Fei provide a portrait of the Everett Boys & Girls Club (BGC) and explore what makes the Everett BGC a successful place of learning and development for young people. They show that through “intentional informality,” the program develops spaces so that teenagers feel that they have room to be themselves while also knowing there are caring adults around them when they need guidance or mentorship. The case study concludes with takeaway practices for other practitioners to consider when designing programming for adolescents. Read More

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