October 24th is the 20th Anniversary of Lights On Afterschool, a nationwide event to call attention to the importance of afterschool programs for America’s children, families and communities. Have you registered your event? It’s not too late! After this week, the printer can’t guarantee that your posters will arrive before October 24. Register your celebration […]
CONTINUE READING5 Tips to Kick off a New School Year with a Bang! The summer is ending, and we are quickly re-acclimating to another school year. As you plan for the 2019–2020 school year, I have a few tips that can help afterschool educators get their new students ready for up-coming school year. Introductions. One of the […]
CONTINUE READINGIn late 2018, the Connecticut After School Network released its 3rd edition of the Connecticut Quality Self-Assessment Tool (CT-QSAT) to help strengthen after school programs. A quality program is one that is reflective and willing to improve, change, and grow. It believes in successful outcomes for its participants. It understands that improving program quality is […]
CONTINUE READINGThree Great Movies that Teach Empathy for Middle School Students The right movie can provoke thought, stir our emotions, and spark our curiosity. When a child connects to a film, it can evoke the feeling of empathy better than any lesson ever could. In this blog post, I will provide you with three great movies […]
CONTINUE READINGDeveloping resilience in children is not an easy endeavor. Each child temperament and ability to cope with adversity may differ. However, an emotionally competent parent or supportive family member is a significant source of helping children strengthen anatomy and willingness to ask for help when necessary. This blog post will explain five ways adults can […]
CONTINUE READINGThese intensive sessions blend fun, engaging content with a richer, more in-depth exploration of the most challenging issues facing after school program staff. Join us as we go deep, building reflective practice and making best practices and inspiring ideas into realistic, feasible changes to your programs. Build expertise and skill that will translate into improved […]
CONTINUE READINGThe Connecticut State Department of Education has released its Request for Proposals for afterschool funding through the 21st Century Community Learning Center Grant. The 21st CCLC grant application is electronic and is located on the State Department of Education’s e-grants system. You should contact Millie Crawford at mcrawford@hmbnet.com to gain access to the system. Her […]
CONTINUE READINGThree Key Strategies for a Full Day as a Youth Counselor It is vital for youth camp counselors to be prepared for full day summer camp. I remember how exhausting a day of work could be as youth development counselor. In this blog post, I will discuss three self-care strategies for youth development summer workers […]
CONTINUE READINGGetting Ready for your Back to School Night Event Back -to- School Family Night is a great way to enhance family involvement for your afterschool program. The event supports parent involvement as well as shapes children’s understandings of positive community interactions and it also promotes family bonding. A Back-to-School Family Night should be colorful, fun, […]
CONTINUE READINGTGIFriyays! After school professionals will come together with context experts in a friendly and engaging conversation about one key area of after school program quality. Explore tools and strategies, try new activities and games, share ideas, and network with colleagues. Join us for Fun Fridays, and leave inspired and equipped to make your program shine! […]
CONTINUE READING