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# CT Afterschool Network

CT Afterschool Network

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [Get to Know Ken!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2026/06/11/get-to-know-ken/) - Getting to Know the New Executive Director. What is your earliest memory? One memory that sticks out is when I was three or four years old I fed our dog sweet potatoes under the kitchen table. As a result, the dog scarfed them down and then proceeded to throw them up all over the carpet
- [Keeping Current to Get Ahead: Letting Go to Lead](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2026/06/16/keeping-current-to-get-ahead-letting-go-to-lead/) - The path our careers take in youth development programming often comes through interest and passion. Many of us were going in another direction when we stumbled upon this field that impacts so many communities nationally. I didn’t understand the scope of the field until I went to my first work conference in 2000 with Carol
- [21st CCLC Grant Application](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2026/05/28/21st-cclc-grant-application/) - The Connecticut State Department of Education (CSDE) is pleased to announce that the Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) Grant application for the 2026-27 school year is now open in the Electronic Grants Management System (eGMS). The purpose of the 21st CCLC grant is to fund community learning centers that provide
- [Early Start CT Expansion Request for Application (RFA) Endowment](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2025/12/10/early-start-ct-expansion-request-for-application-rfa-endowment/) - School-Age Funding Available! The Connecticut Office of Early Childhood (OEC) announced today that a “Request of Application (RFA)” is open for programs across the state to apply for slots funded through the CT Early Childhood Education Endowment. Part of OEC’s larger goal of improving the equitable access to affordable, high-quality care and education for Connecticut
- [Introducing the Mott Million Dollar Challenge: Where Bold Ideas Win Big](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2026/01/08/introducing-the-mott-million-dollar-challenge-where-bold-ideas-win-big/) - Kids and teens everywhere have world-changing ideas that deserve the spotlight! That’s why the Mott Million Dollar Challenge is going all-in on innovation and backing the next generation of genius. Supported by funding from the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation, the Mott Million Dollar Challenge is powered by the Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship (NFTE) in collaboration
- [Keeping Current to Get Ahead: Showing Your Love for Afterschool](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2026/01/13/keeping-current-to-get-ahead-showing-your-love-for-afterschool/) - In our field there are several times throughout the year that programs are able to highlight what is going on in their communities. Local stories, making local impact. Best practices are often hidden in plain sight in out-of-school time. We work in isolation at our sites or programs, often down the road from another program.
- [FUN for the FIELD: The 4th Go aROUND](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2026/03/12/fun-for-the-field-the-4th-go-around/) - We’re gearing up for our 4th annual Fun for the Field Resource Fair, and this year we’re switching it up a bit! We’ve been listening to both Vendors and Afterschool Practitioners, and we understand that sometimes those types of resources can be a challenging part of programming. Hoops to jump through, budget constraints, staffing, etc.
- [Keeping Current to Get Ahead: Paper Airplane Race Day](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2026/05/19/keeping-current-to-get-ahead-paper-airplane-race-day/) - We are quickly approaching the days when spring break has passed, Memorial Day seems far away, and everyone is looking forward to May flowers. The games that got you through the winter have become mundane and the mere mention of them makes staff shudder. As many programs do, my program also ran on a shoestring
- [Cheer! 5 years of the Afterschool Recognition Awards!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2026/04/29/cheer-5-years-of-the-afterschool-recognition-awards/) - The submission deadline is September 4th, 2026. The Connecticut Network for Children and Youth is seeking nominations for the 5th Annual Recognition Awards. The nomination form is open! Do you know an individual or program who goes above and beyond for the youth in their community? We want to recognize them! The Best of CT
- [Keeping Current to Get Ahead: Spring into APAW with Staff!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2026/04/07/keeping-current-to-get-ahead-spring-into-apaw-with-staff/) - I recently attended the 2026 National AfterSchool Association Convention in Washington, DC. When they asked how many people were first time attendees more than half raised their hands. This could mean a couple of things, 1) programs have faced incredible turnover and have to invest in professional development for staff, 2) there are more programs
- [CTNCY Announcement](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2026/04/07/ctncy-announcement/) - After twenty-two years of service, Michelle will be stepping down as Executive Director of the Network and retiring on June 10, 2026. Message from Michelle - It has been one of the greatest honors of my life to lead this organization and to work alongside all of you who are so deeply committed to ensuring
- [Keeping Current to Get Ahead: Check Your Batteries](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2026/03/24/keeping-current-to-get-ahead-check-your-batteries/) - We have all been there…sleeping in the middle of the night, watching a tv show, or enjoying some solitude and out of nowhere comes {Beep} {Beep}, a few seconds go by {Beep} {Beep}. Trying to remember when we changed the batteries last, at the same time pressing the button to be sure the current one
- [Keeping Current to Get Ahead: Accelerate Staff Impact with Summer Momentum](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2025/08/26/keeping-current-to-get-ahead-accelerate-staff-impact-with-summer-momentum/) - As the summer winds down and sights start to get set on gearing up your afterschool program, many of the staff that worked those long hot days will be back for the school year. Summer provides the opportunity for staff to develop skills and build confidence in their work, connecting these to the afterschool program
- [Keeping Current to Get Ahead: Starting with the End in Mind](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2025/09/30/keeping-current-to-get-ahead-starting-with-the-end-in-mind/) - Staff are trained and the kids are back in school. The program has been running for a week or two now, and the summer planning you did to start the year is already beginning to take shape. Staff understand the expectations and implement the program activities with enthusiasm and fidelity to the why of what
- [Keeping Current to Get Ahead: Eight Ways to Strengthen and Sustain Your Program ](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2025/12/09/keeping-current-to-get-ahead-eight-ways-to-strengthen-and-sustain-your-program/) - Through the years the term quality has been a cornerstone of excellence, something we always hope our programs are or take for granted that there are no glaring issues. Quality is like putting air in the tires of your program. When your car tires are full you get better gas mileage, when they are low
- [Clothing Drive](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2025/10/27/clothing-drive/) - Clean out your closets to help support the CT Network for Children and Youth. It is time to declutter and make room for the new. If you need a little inspiration, here is the nudge you need. For the next couple of weeks, go through your closets and drawers and bag up your gently used
- [Celebrate Lights On Afterschool (and have some fun)!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2025/09/19/celebrate-lights-on-afterschool-and-have-some-fun/) - This October marks the 26th year of the nationwide Lights On Afterschool celebration. Each year thousands of programs and tens of thousands of children take part in events, recognitions, and community engagement. In 2022, along with partners, we started an annual event to kick-off the month, to give programs time to plan and prepare for
- [Great Give 2022](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/02/17/great-give-2022/) - SAVE THE DATE – May 4 & 5 2022 About The Great Give Celebrating its 13th year in 2022, The Great Give is returning on May 4-5. This 36-hr, online, community-wide giving event was created by The Community Foundation for Greater New Haven to raise visibility and resources for nonprofits serving Greater New Haven. Last
- [2022-23 Professional Development Catalog](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/10/12/2022-23-professional-development-catalog/) - As programs rebuild and recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, we are here to help support staff and leadership development, develop quality improvement tools vital to program success, and provide opportunities for your voice to be heard statewide and nationally. In addition to our conferences and on-site training service, several exciting options are available this year:
- [The Network is Celebrating 35 Years!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2024/01/03/the-network-is-celebrating-35-years/) - The Network is celebrating 35 years of after school excellence...and more! In 1989, the Network was founded as the Connecticut School Age Child Care Alliance (CSACCA) at the first After School Conference. Since then, we changed names (2x), moved to several locations and employed over 20 people. In addition to our after school work, we
- [Federal After School Funding on Hold in Connecticut](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2025/07/08/federal-after-school-funding-on-hold-in-connecticut/) - You may have already heard that the Federal Government is withholding $6 billion dollars in education funding. Part of this includes the 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21CCLC), which is the only dedicated federal funding source for afterschool and summer programs. In Connecticut, that equates to thousands of children without a program to go and
- [Power for Good Program of the Year](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2025/06/30/power-for-good-program-of-the-year/) - The New Program of the Year Award will recognize one afterschool program for quality excellence at our Afterschool Conference “The Power of Afterschool” on November 8th! So, what do you need to do to get recognized? First, you and your program staff take the Drive to Quality Pledge. Once you sign up, there are a
- [Keeping Current to Get Ahead: Creating the Climate for Retention](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2025/06/24/keeping-current-to-get-ahead-creating-pathways-for-advancement/) - When I used to work in the West Haven Community House summer program we would go on field trips five days per week. These trips kept the staff engaged, and while sometimes repetitive (like Indian Wells and Wadsworth Falls State Parks at least 4 times over the summer), everyone enjoyed their time with one another
- [CSDE Releases State Funded After School Grant Request for Proposals](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2025/05/15/csde-after-school-grant-bidders-conference/) - The Connecticut State Department of Education (CSDE) held a bidders conference May 14th, 2025 to release the 2025-2027 Request for Proposals for the State Funded After School Grant program. The purpose of this funding is to create programs that provide students with academic, enrichment and recreational opportunities designed to complement their regular school day, and
- [Keeping Current to Get Ahead: Sowing the Seeds of Interest](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2025/03/13/keeping-current-to-get-ahead-sowing-the-seeds-of-interest/) - People talk about spring as a time of renewal, early spring flowers poke sprouts through the thawing ground. Days get a little longer and, after months of playing board games and basketball in the gym, going outside is finally more than a 10 minute option. While the winter season allows for more and varied small
- [Keeping Current to Get Ahead: Spring Forward with Fall Planning](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2025/04/01/keeping-current-to-get-ahead-spring-forward-with-fall-planning/) - The cold winter months have given way to moderate temperatures over the last few weeks. Children and staff want to get outside, to run around, play games, and get some sun and muddy shoes. While we take in the warmer days, we know summer is not far away, fall remains off in the distance. Just
- [Keeping Current to Get Ahead: Giving Back to the Community](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2025/04/17/keeping-current-to-get-ahead-giving-back-to-the-community/) - Teaching the children we work with the importance of giving back to the community is a cornerstone of the work we do. This could be intergenerational programming, service learning projects, or the performing or visual arts. Creating community connections has positive benefits not only for the children served, but also for the larger community. When
- [Keeping Current to Get Ahead: Driving Your Program to Quality](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2025/05/01/keeping-current-to-get-ahead-driving-your-program-to-quality/) - The word quality comes up all the time, but we seldom take the time to reflect on what it means. When we think of quality, it could pertain to any number of things. The quality of a doordash delivery, the quality of the roads in your neighborhood, the quality of the air we breathe, or
- [Keeping Current to Get Ahead: Creating Pathways for Advancement](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2025/06/04/keeping-current-to-get-ahead-creating-pathways-for-advancement-2/) - As the out-of-school time research base grows demonstrating the benefits of afterschool and summer programs, opportunities for growth and advancement in the field as a viable career have become reality. Organizations that were either small or non-existent 25 years ago are now major parts of the support system. These include the 50 State Afterschool Network
- [Preparing for Interactions with ICE Agents in a Child Care Setting](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2025/03/14/preparing-for-interactions-with-ice-agents-in-a-child-care-setting/) - The recent changes to the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) policies have raised some questions and concerns in our communities. Some of these changes to the Department of Homeland Security policies may affect child care centers but it is also important to recognize that we can continue to rely on our constitutional rights and
- [NAA Releases Out-of-School Time (OST) Job Quality Standards](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2024/07/24/national-afterschool-association-releases-groundbreaking-ost-job-quality-standards/) - In an effort to elevate the out-of-school time (OST) profession and enhance the well-being of OST professionals nationwide, the National AfterSchool Association (NAA) has proudly unveiled the Out-of-School Time Job Quality Standards (JQS). Developed in collaboration with leading experts and stakeholders in the field, these standards represent a pivotal milestone in the ongoing efforts to
- [OEC Changes Regulation for After School Programs](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2024/09/27/oec-changes-regulation-for-after-school-programs/) - On Thursday, September 26th, Michelle Doucette Cunninham, Executive Director, spoke to one small part of the changes. Specifically, the Office of Early Childhood has changed the regulation for after school programs to allow 15 students to one teacher (instead of 10:1). Michelle spoke to the benefits this will provide families, children and programs, and thanked
- [ADVOCACY ALERT: After School Grants in Jeopardy, Act Now!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2025/02/14/advocacy-alert-after-school-grants-in-jeopardy-act-now/) - Governor Lamont released his budget last week at the state capitol, in which combining multiple Connecticut State Department of Education (CSDE) programs into one single line item. One item in particular, the CSDE After School Grants which are currently funded at $5.8 million and provide services to 70 sites statewide, was included in the proposal
- [Keeping Current to Get Ahead: The Heart of Afterschool](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2025/02/06/keeping-current-to-get-ahead-the-heart-of-afterschool-2/) - The term unsung heroes is commonly used when referring to afterschool professionals. A workforce that shows up everyday from 3:00 - 6:00, sometimes later. It is often a job that requires you to think on your feet, come up with a project using only cardboard, some tape, markers, and imagination. We stay in the field
- [Keeping Current to Get Ahead: Prioritizing Your Own Learning from the Start](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2024/09/04/keeping-current-to-get-ahead-prioritizing-your-own-learning-from-the-start/) - As the new school year starts we have an opportunity to rethink old habits, start new ones, explore interests, and become engaged in the field beyond your program. The Out-of-School Time field has grown and evolved over the past 24 years since the start of the Millenium. The field offers robust opportunities through federally funded
- [Keeping Current to Get Ahead: Celebrations, Recognition, and Connections](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2024/10/02/keeping-current-to-get-ahead-celebrations-recognition-and-connections/) - By now, most programming is moving along. There may be some bugs to iron out, schedules to adjust, and supplies to buy for the upcoming season. How are you orchestrating all of the parts of the program? Are there key staff that help make it happen? October is a time to step back and recognize
- [Keeping Current to Get Ahead: Weaving Expectations into Program Improvement](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2024/10/21/keeping-current-to-get-ahead-weaving-expectations-into-program-improvement/) - When we hear the terms “high-quality”, “impactful programming”, “standards of excellence”, “continuous quality improvement” they often sound like a far-off place we would like our programs to get to. An aspiration, something that takes time, effort, buy-in, and money. In the day-to-day of programming, integrating intentional quality improvement efforts are often challenging due to the
- [Keeping Current to Get Ahead: Creating Connections and Opportunities](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2024/11/07/keeping-current-to-get-ahead-creating-connections-and-opportunities-2/) - By now, mid-October afterschool programs are moving along at a good pace. Children and staff know established routines, relationships have been formed, and we are rapidly moving toward the holiday season. This is a time to bring together the community, create connections and opportunities beyond the program, and recognize the place your program has within
- [Keeping Current to Get Ahead: It’s Not One, It’s Everyone](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2024/11/26/keeping-current-to-get-ahead-creating-connections-and-opportunities/) - Being a leader often means that you are the one that everyone sees as the organizer and planner of events. As we all know, it takes a team to pull off any large scale event or production. I remember when we used to do winter plays and each site would be responsible for something (props,
- [Keeping Current to Get Ahead: Falling into Patterns](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2024/12/26/keeping-current-to-get-ahead-falling-into-patterns/) - As program leaders we have all been there. The rush of registration is over, the program is settling in, things are going smoothly, and you finally have a minute before the next wave of holiday parties and supplies are needed. Take a breath, you made it past Halloween and are on the way to Thanksgiving
- [Keeping Current to Get Ahead: A Good Time to Reset](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2025/01/07/keeping-current-to-get-ahead-a-good-time-to-reset/) - The holidays have passed and the cold bleak of mid-winter is setting in. Staffing has stabilized for the most part and you are busy working on the new staff schedules to coincide with the changes that may have been made. January is a good time to reset. To rethink how the first half of the
- [Keeping Current to Get Ahead: Recognizing the Forest from the Trees](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2025/01/21/keeping-current-to-get-ahead-recognizing-the-forest-from-the-trees/) - The out-of-school time field (also known as after school, school-age childcare, enrichment, etc.) has a long history, starting in the late 1800’s in response to the Industrial Revolution in order to help give youth a place away from their work in factories as labor laws changed. Few in the field are aware of the rich
- [Keeping Current to Get Ahead: Budgeting for What’s Necessary and Fosters Improvement](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2025/02/25/keeping-current-to-get-ahead-the-heart-of-afterschool/) - As the mid-winter approaches, and the February cold starts to set in we are reminded of spreadsheets and budget projections for the coming year. Out-of-school time programs large and small need balanced budgets that both maintain what is necessary, and at the same time foster innovation and growth in programming. Resoundingly, Afterschool Professionals have risen
- [Summer for All Comes to Connecticut](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2024/07/31/summer-for-all-comes-to-connecticut/) - Summer is a time for outdoors, water fun, and laughing with friends. However for millions of children across the country, summer is a time of isolation and choices that may have negative consequences for years to come in their lives. While middle and high income peers are provided a multitude of summer activities, low income
- [Ice Dye Color Theory](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2024/05/28/ice-dye-color-theory/) - Back in February, Shawna shared a worksheet to help staff create activities based on their own interests, and as promised she’s back with her tie-dye inspired activity, Ice Dye Color Theory. Shawna found her love for tie-dye, especially using the ice dye technique, during the pandemic. We even hosted a team building where the network
- [Teen Art Exhibition!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2024/05/01/teen-art-exhibition/) - This month Shawna had the team help her demo a few Mizzen activities! They gathered to create a call for art for the fall conference using the Teens Curate Teens Collection. The collection is a series of 6 activities, empowering teens to curate their very own art exhibition. The activities begin with developing a theme
- [Making Comics!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2024/03/21/making-comics/) - The Network surveyed the field recently, and found that you wanted more arts content, so Shawna’s answering the call with this month's PD Bite. She explored the first two activities in the Making Comics! Mizzen collection. A collection with 7 different parts, making it an easy to implement curriculum. The first activity, Making Comics Part
- [Creating Activities based on Staff Interests](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2024/01/31/creating-activities-based-on-staff-interests/) - Are you struggling to keep students engaged during program time? Finding activities, a little dry, even for you? Have you ever thought about developing activities based on your interests? Shawna created a worksheet for you to explore just that. In this month's PD Bite, Shawna linked the worksheet so you can print it and use
- [Activities for Indoors](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2024/01/12/activities-for-indoors/) - Now that the weather is cold, that means more program time is spent inside. It can be hard to keep kids engaged while they are all cooped up. I’ve explored the Mizzen App to find some activities that are great for the colder months. One of my favorite activities I tested while doing the Mizzen
- [OST STEM Experience](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2024/01/02/ost-stem-experience/) - The Connecticut Science Center and CT Network for Children and Youth (CTNCY) are thrilled to offer a brand-new series of workshops centered around developing skills, expertise, and programming to assist afterschool providers in creating meaningful, fun STEM experiences and engagement opportunities for students. We know your time is very valuable, stipends will be offered to
- [Simply STEM (December)](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2023/12/15/simply-stem-december/) - Activities
- [Unpacking the Power of Us Survey](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2023/11/14/unpacking-the-power-of-us-survey/) - Anthony
- [Simply STEM (November)](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2023/11/13/simply-stem-november/) - Welcome to this month’s Simply STEM activity! Today, we are going to test how different liquids react with marshmallows! This fun and easy activity is perfect for your students to practice their observation skills while using the scientific method. A bonus to this experiment is that you can eat any marshmallows that are leftover! This
- [Building 3D Sandwiches & Color Collages](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2023/11/01/building-3d-sandwiches-color-collages/) - Two years ago, I created a YouTube video highlighting the playlist feature on the Mizzen app. The playlist “Art Projects for K-5th Grade at Home or in Small Groups” included the “Building 3D Sandwiches” & “Color Collage” Activities. My 3D Sandwich is one of my most prized decorations in my office, as you can see
- [Simply STEM (October)](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2023/10/30/simply-stem-october/) - Welcome to this month’s Simply STEM activity! Today, we are creating our own spiderweb! This activity is a fun and creative way to teach your students about how spiders catch their prey. Your students will design and create their own spider web that is able to hold at least 3 small items. How will they
- [Help Us Help YOU!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2023/10/11/help-us-help-you/) - Hi, I’m Ashley! I’m a graduate student in the Community Psychology program at CCSU and I’m interning with the Network this fall to help conduct a needs assessment project. In the spring, a group of my classmates and I worked with the network on a pilot needs assessment in which we heard from some afterschool
- [Simply STEM (September)](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2023/09/25/simply-stem-september/) - Welcome to this month’s Simply STEM activity! Today, we are making paper leaf gliders! This fun hands-on activity will help your students understand concepts like aerodynamics and fine motor skills. It is also a great way for your students to utilize their observational skills. To help your students understand the concept of flight, check out
- [Simply STEM (August)](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2023/08/28/simply-stem-august/) - Welcome to this month’s Simply STEM activity! Today, we are recreating a small desert! With just 3 ingredients, we will learn how to recreate the gritty texture of sand at home! This is a quick and easy lesson to introduce your students to different biomes and ecosystems! Time: 25 minutes Description: What is a biome?
- [Welcome Back to (After) School](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2023/08/30/welcome-back-to-after-school/) - As a new school year kicks off, we at the Network wish you all the best. We hope we can provide you with an abundance of resources and tools to help you throughout. After School is a place where the magic never stops, and the adventure never ends. Welcome Back! Below is information from the
- [Get to Know Your Students Using Mizzen - Decorate a Notebook](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2023/08/31/get-to-know-your-students-using-mizzen-decorate-a-notebook/) - **Don’t know what the Mizzen app is? Check out the Mizzen website to learn more about the tools and resources it offers!** Last year I had the opportunity to demo this and a handful of other activities on the Network's Facebook Live. I started the series with this particular activity because I thought it was
- [Lights On Afterschool 2023 Recognition Awards](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2023/08/17/2023-recognition-awards/) - Submit your nomination for this year's Lights On Afterschool 2023 Recognition Awards!
- [Simply STEM (July)](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2023/07/31/simply-stem-july/) - Welcome to this month’s Simply STEM activity! Today, we are recreating a volcano eruption! This activity will allow your students to see how different chemicals react when they are mixed together. Before you start the activity, ask them to make predictions about what will happen when the vinegar mixes with the baking soda. Time: 20
- [Request for Presenters](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2023/07/11/request-for-presenters/) - Now accepting applications for presenters! We invite you to apply to present at our 2023 Annual After School Conference. We are looking for workshops that will support staff in their efforts to provide amazing learning opportunities and supportive spaces for children in creative and innovative ways. Submission deadline: August 18, 2023. Learn more and apply here.
- [Simply STEM (June)](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2023/06/27/simply-stem-june/) - Welcome to this month’s Simply STEM activity! Today, we are making a bird’s nest! Your students will be challenged to design a nest that can hold weight without breaking. They will test their engineering skills while also practicing patience. While the task may seem simple, your students will have to come up with a design
- [2022 - 2023 Year in Review](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2023/06/22/2022-2023-year-in-review/) - If you missed our annual meeting on June 16th, here is a recap of our year. We thank you for your continuous support and hope that we at The Network also supported your programs throughout the year.
- [State After School Grant - Update 6/5/2023](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2023/05/17/state-after-school-grant-bidders-conference/) - The Connecticut State Department of Education is about to release its Request for Proposals for the After-School Grant Program for Grades K-12 for the two-year period ending June 30, 2025. New Round of After School Funding - RFP is LIVE! Applications for these grants use the state's eGMS (electronic grants management system) and the application
- [Simply STEM (May)](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2023/05/26/simply-stem-may/) - Welcome to this month’s Simply STEM activity! Today, we are making a mini terrarium garden! A terrarium is a small enclosed space filled with plants. They are usually in small glass containers and are designed to look like a small version of a garden. This activity is perfect for students because you won’t need an
- [Afterschool in the Time of COVID-19 Survey](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2023/05/02/afterschool-in-the-time-of-covid-19-survey/) - Afterschool Alliance has conducted a series of surveys since COVID began to ensure that afterschool and summer learning programs build on the innovations and lessons of the pandemic. This ninth and final survey remains important for funders, policy makers, education leaders, and the overall public to understand the supports afterschool and summer learning programs are
- [Simply STEM (April)](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2023/04/28/simply-stem-april/) - Welcome to this month’s Simply STEM activity! Today, we are making our own cell phone stands! Your students will have to figure out how to design a cell phone stand that is stable and will be able to hold the weight of their cell phone. They can come up with their own designs, or they
- [DNA Day](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2023/04/04/dna-day/) - Every year on April 25 since 2003, scientists, biologists, and genetics enthusiasts come together to observe National DNA Day, celebrating the discovery and research into DNA and the scientific advancements that helped make progress possible. National DNA Day encourages people to learn more about the science that makes them genetically unique. Help youth feel unique
- [Simply STEM (March)](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2023/03/27/simply-stem-march/) - Welcome to this month’s Simply STEM activity! Today, we are making a catapult made out of popsicle sticks! We will discover how to engineer a stable catapult in order to launch small objects. I made my catapult St. Patrick’s Day themed, but you can use any colors and launching material that you want! Name: CatapultTime:
- [<strong>The Connecticut High-Dosage Tutoring Program</strong>](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2023/03/23/the-connecticut-high-dosage-tutoring-program/) - On March 22, 2023, Governor Lamont announced plans to launch Intensive Mathematics Tutoring Program for Students in Grades 6-9 to address learning loss from pandemic. The Connecticut High-Dosage Tutoring Program is a new statewide program for students in grades 6 to 9 that will provide intensive tutoring in mathematics to accelerate learning and address learning loss resulting
- [Simply STEM (February)](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2023/02/27/simply-stem-february/) - Welcome to this month’s Simply STEM activity! Today, we are making our own lava lamp! In this activity, we will learn about how oil and water interact. We will also see how Alka Seltzer tablets react with the oil and water. I made my lava lamp Valentine’s Day themed, but you can use any color
- [Simply STEM (January)](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2023/01/30/simply-stem/) - Welcome to this month’s Simply STEM activity! Today, we are creating a maze! In this activity, we will learn about how to create a maze out of straws to be able to get a marble to the other side of a paper plate. Name: Paper Plate MazeTime: 10 minutes Description: This activity is designed to
- [Why Summer Matters](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2018/03/01/why-summer-matters/) - The Connecticut After School Network released it's new report "Why Summer Matters: Summer Programs in Connecticut" today. The full report can be found here.
- [Power of Us Workforce Survey](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2023/01/17/power-of-us-workforce-survey-2/) - Start Your 2023 Journey with the Power of Us Workforce Survey—Contribute to the First of Its Kind National Survey about the Youth Fields Workforce! January marks both a new year and a new opportunity to take the Power of Us Workforce Survey! Staff and volunteers—including afterschool leaders, mentors, coaches, librarians, and more—have been showing up
- [NAA's Next Generation of Afterschool Leaders](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2023/01/09/naas-next-generation-of-afterschool-leaders/) - NAA's Next Generation of Afterschool Leaders identifies young leaders and recognizes and cultivates the talent of afterschool champions who have the potential to influence the field of afterschool for years to come. The selected emerging leader honorees will have demonstrated contributions that have started to influence beyond individual programs to organizations and communities, a proven passion
- [Open Enrollment is ongoing for CLASP STEM (2022)](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/12/12/clasp-stem-2022-accepting-new-applications/) - We are still looking for applicants if you are interested and did not meet the first application round. If you are looking for an opportunity to explore and build comfort with sharing STEM learning as a regular part of your program? Are you a frontline educator and want to learn more about how to bring
- [Flight Crew Million Girls Moonshot](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/11/15/flight-crew-million-girls-moonshot/) - Application deadline extended - November 27, 2023 The Flight Crew is a group of youth advocates promoting the value of out-of-school STEM learning and equity in STEM for young people across the nation. The 2023 Flight Crew will participate in eight months of youth development and public speaking training to share: First-hand, impactful STEM experiences
- [November 8th is National STEM Day](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/11/02/november-8th-is-national-stem-day/) - November is a busy month! November 8th is National STEM Day - let’s make it a blast! Celebrate National STEM Day with a sequence of activities you can implement in your afterschool program today!!! Say goodbye to googling or searching on Pinterest. Use the following activities in sequence to support youth in building an engineering
- [Wallace Foundation Funding Opportunity](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/10/07/wallace-foundation-funding-opportunity/) - The Wallace Foundation has announced a one-year grant opportunity for groups of organizations that are working together to promote adolescent youth development. Expressions of interest from eligible partnerships are due at 5 p.m., Friday, November 4th. Adolescence is a time of rapid development for young people marked by growing independence, identity exploration, bonding with peers
- [MIZZEN Mondays](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/09/23/mizzen-mondays/) - Join Shawna the first Monday of every month on Facebook Live at noon! MIZZEN by Mott is a website and application created to support afterschool professionals' access to quality content. Learn all about the free resources Mizzen provides, get access to full hands-on activities with resources and materials list, while you watch Shawna Live! Each
- [Well-Being Institute 2022-2023](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/09/26/well-being-institute-2022-2023/) - The Well-Being Institute, formally known as Behavior Management Institute, focuses on providing comprehensive well-being supports to afterschool staff and educators in a cycle beginning in October 2022 and ending in May 2023. Two virtual, concurrent tracks (elementary and secondary) will provide participants with strategies and supports to maximize student social-emotional, behavior, and academic outcomes. This
- [Giving Tuesday 2022](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/09/14/giving-tuesday-2022/) - We are just 11 weeks away from one of the biggest days of giving. GivingTuesday is among the few days of the year where people are actively seeking causes to support, rather than the other way around. On November 29, 2022, the entire world will be talking about, thinking about, and discussing ways each of
- [Subscribe Today](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/09/13/subscribe-today/) - Become a SUBSCRIBER and sign up for our Weekly Newsletter and other email notifications. Stay in touch with the Network about our upcoming events, National news and funding possibilities. Each week you will receive our Newsletter filled with resources. These also make for great reminders to register for some of our upcoming events. You will also receive additional emails
- [OEC Parent Survey](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/09/07/oec-parent-survey/) - Scan the QR code or visit https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/OEC22PC to participate today. Para español, oprima aquí.
- [Exhibitors & Sponsors - Annual Fall Conference](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/08/23/exhibitors-sponsors-annual-fall-conference/) - EXHIBITOR AND SPONSOR PACKAGES ARE NOW AVAILABLE! Date: Saturday, November 12, 2022Location: CT Convention Center, HartfordDeadline: August 31, 2022 EXHIBITOR TABLES (electricity available upon request) All exhibitors will have one 10-foot table. Additional tables are available for a fee. Exhibitors will be showcased on our social media prior to the conference and in our conference program.
- [New Grant Opportunity for After School Programs!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/08/01/new-grant-opportunity-for-after-school-programs/) - The Connecticut State Department of Education is pleased to announce the new competitive ARP ESSER After School Innovation Request for Proposals (RFP). The ARP ESSER After School Innovation Request for Proposals (SDE RFP # 834) will be posted on the Department’s website and electronic grants management system on August 2nd. A bidder’s conference is scheduled for
- [Look Up!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/08/05/look-up-6/) - Hello friends! So excited for this August's post. It's all about the Perseids. The Perseids Showers are associated with the comet Swift-Tutle a Haley-type comet. They are called the Perseids because they hail, or radiant point comes from the constellation Perseus. The shower is visible mid-July each year throughout the month of August, peaking on
- [Request for Presenters - Annual Fall Conference](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/08/02/request-for-presenters-annual-fall-conference/) - We invite you to apply to present at our Annual Fall Conference. Date: Saturday, November 12, 2022Location: CT Convention Center, HartfordDeadline: August 31, 2022 ***Please be sure our theme "School's Out, Make It Count!" is reflected in your workshop.*** Learn More
- [After School Tea Time – Week of 7/26/2022](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/07/26/after-school-tea-time-week-of-7-26-2022/) - Welcome back to this week’s segment of After School Tea Time! Get your tea cups ready because we have more to spill this week! Keep your questions coming because you could be helping someone who has similar questions! Question from Fairfield County- In our program we have a student who is usually very quiet and
- [Look Up!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/07/13/look-up-7/) - I love sharing my love for astronomy each month. I wish there were times I can do it weekly, but we are located in a pretty tough area where light pollution or weather for that matter may not always be on our side. This month I want to share my night during camping up north
- [Feel Good Friday!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/06/24/feel-good-friday-18/) - Our Feel Good Friday blog gives us an inside look and learning more about the Network staff! Here is what is making us feel good lately! We look forward to sharing our small blurbs and hope you do too. Comment or share what you think...would you like to be included? Send your feel-good moment to
- [After School Tea Time – Week of 6/21/2022](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/06/28/after-school-tea-time-week-of-6-21-2022-2/) - Welcome back to this week’s segment of After School Tea Time! Get your tea cups ready because we have more to spill this week! Keep your questions coming because you could be helping someone who has similar questions! Question from New Haven County- There is a student in our program having behavioral issues. They have
- [Feel Good Friday!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/07/01/feel-good-friday-19/) - Our Feel Good Friday blog gives us an inside look and learning more about the Network staff! Here is what is making us feel good lately! We look forward to sharing our small blurbs and hope you do too. Comment or share what you think...would you like to be included? Send your feel-good moment to
- [After School Tea Time – Week of 7/5/2022](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/07/05/after-school-tea-time-week-of-7-5-2022/) - Welcome back to this week’s segment of After School Tea Time! Get your tea cups ready because we have more to spill this week! Keep your questions coming because you could be helping someone who has similar questions! Question from Hartford County- There are two students in our program who started out as really good
- [Power of Us Workforce Survey](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/06/27/power-of-us-workforce-survey/) - Millions of professionals and volunteers work with young people every day in the many settings where youth play, learn, and grow outside of the school day. Yet, we have little collective information about this essential workforce. We want to know more about those who are still in the youth fields and those who left, so
- [What's an Environmental Engineer?](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/06/23/whats-an-environmental-engineer/) - Environmental Engineers use the principles of engineering, soil science, biology, chemistry and math to develop solutions to environmental problems. Using their expertise, an Environmental Engineer works to prevent, control or remediate any hazard to the environment such as mining, oil drilling, green house gasses, etc. Their work might start with making sure water and air
- [Look Up!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/05/11/look-up-4/) - Hello there sky gazers! The weather seems to be holding out this Spring. But do not worry, there is still plenty to see in May...if the clouds let up of course. Some of us are counting the days until the Full Moon on May 16th, also known as the Flower Moon. That means the New
- [After School Tea Time – Week of 4/12/2022](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/04/12/after-school-tea-time-week-of-4-12-2022/) - Welcome back to this week’s segment of After School Tea Time! Get your tea cups ready because we have more to spill this week! Keep your questions coming because you could be helping someone who has similar questions! Question from New Haven County- Recently in our program, we did an activity that required the students
- [After School Tea Time – Week of 4/19/2022](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/04/19/after-school-tea-time-week-of-4-19-2022/) - Welcome back to this week’s segment of After School Tea Time! Get your tea cups ready because we have more to spill this week! Keep your questions coming because you could be helping someone who has similar questions! Question from Fairfield County- Students have not been engaged with the learning material or activities lately. They
- [NOAA Ocean Literacy Resources](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/05/10/noaa-ocean-literacy-resources/) - NOAA Ocean Service Education recently announced several new Ocean Literacy resources: Ocean Literacy Guide,The Handbook for Increasing Ocean Literacy,Ocean Literacy Scope and Sequence for Grades K–12,Alignment of Ocean Literacy to the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) You can access all of these resources as well as the Climate Literacy Essential Principles in English and in Spanish
- [After School Tea Time – Week of 6/7/2022](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/06/07/after-school-tea-time-week-of-6-7-2022/) - Get your teacups ready because we are back and ready to spill this week! Keep your questions coming because you could be helping someone who has similar questions! Question from Hartford County- There is a new child who recently joined our program and shows up with clothing that looks damaged. The clothing has holes and
- [Feel Good Friday!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/06/10/feel-good-friday-16/) - Our Feel Good Friday blog gives us an inside look and learning more about the Network staff! Here is what is making us feel good lately! We look forward to sharing our small blurbs and hope you do too. Comment or share what you think...would you like to be included? Send your feel-good moment to
- [After School Tea Time – Week of 6/21/2022](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/06/21/after-school-tea-time-week-of-6-21-2022/) - Get your teacups ready because we are back and ready to spill this week! Keep your questions coming because you could be helping someone who has similar questions! Question from Fairfield County- What are some fun summer activities that we can incorporate into our program? We want to spend more time outside but we need
- [Feel Good Friday!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/06/17/feel-good-friday-17/) - Our Feel Good Friday blog gives us an inside look and learning more about the Network staff! Here is what is making us feel good lately! We look forward to sharing our small blurbs and hope you do too. Comment or share what you think...would you like to be included? Send your feel-good moment to
- [SEL Training](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/06/14/sel-training/) - Are you looking to fill your Social Emotional Learning bucket? Is your after school or summer program staff looking for some SEL training? We have compiled a list of past workshops from various trainings into one playlist. Over 2 hours from our Annual Fall Conference, Summer SAN Re-Boot and other State affiliated networks workshops to
- [Mizzen Summer Sizzle](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/06/08/mizzen-summer-sizzle/) - We know that reconnecting with young people and reigniting a love of learning is on everyone’s mind. Throughout this summer, Mizzen by Mott will be bringing you a cool mix of the newest content picks from Jazz at Lincoln Center, PBS NewsHour Student Reporting Labs, !Mpact Players and reDiscover Center. Don't have Mizzen yet? Sign
- [Look Up!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/06/03/look-up-5/) - The International Space Station is visible in the morning skies...but for Aussies only. It's not the first (or the last) that these types of occurrences will happen. Many across the Earth get perfect viewing opportunities. It will just make it extra special for us here in the Northeast when it happens for us. Last month I
- [May the 4th Be With You](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/05/04/may-the-4th-be-with-you/) - Well, seems everyone forgot to get the message out. I am so surprised! Here at The Network, we LOVE Star Wars and usually are right on the ball...too much on our plates I guess and today is the Great Give (don't forget to donate!), but still, today is the 4th. Here are some ideas/resources for
- [Feel Good Friday!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/05/13/feel-good-friday-13/) - Our Feel Good Friday blog gives us an inside to learning more about the Network staff! Here is what is making us feel good lately! We look forward to sharing our small blurbs and hope you do too. Comment or share what you think...would you like to be included? Send your feel-good moment to Marla
- [After School Tea Time – Week of 5/17/2022](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/05/17/after-school-tea-time-week-of-5-17-2022/) - Welcome back to this week’s segment of After School Tea Time! Get your tea cups ready because we have more to spill this week! Keep your questions coming because you could be helping someone who has similar questions! Question from Fairfield County- From your years of experience in the field, what would you say are
- [Feel Good Friday!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/05/20/feel-good-friday-14/) - Our Feel Good Friday blog gives us an inside to learning more about the Network staff! Here is what is making us feel good lately! We look forward to sharing our small blurbs and hope you do too. Comment or share what you think...would you like to be included? Send your feel-good moment to Marla
- [After School Tea Time – Week of 5/24/2022](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/05/24/after-school-tea-time-week-of-5-24-2022/) - Welcome back to this week’s segment of After School Tea Time! Get your tea cups ready because we have more to spill this week! Keep your questions coming because you could be helping someone who has similar questions! Question from New Haven County- We recently hired a new staff person, and we are having some
- [UV Safety Awareness](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/06/06/uv-safety-awareness/) - Summer is the season where most people enjoy outdoor activities. Picnics, vacations, and trips to the amusement park are all things that people look forward to in this season. While we enjoy these activities it is important to keep in mind that we still need to protect ourselves from the sun. Sun protection advice can
- [Feel Good Friday!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/05/27/feel-good-friday-15/) - Our Feel Good Friday blog gives us an inside look and learning more about the Network staff! Here is what is making us feel good lately! We look forward to sharing our small blurbs and hope you do too. Comment or share what you think...would you like to be included? Send your feel-good moment to
- [Feel Good Friday!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/04/22/feel-good-friday-10/) - Our Feel Good Friday blog gives us an inside to learning more about the Network staff! Here is what is making us feel good lately! We look forward to sharing our small blurbs and hope you do too. Comment or share what you think...would you like to be included? Send your feel-good moment to Marla
- [Feel Good Friday!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/04/29/feel-good-friday-11/) - Our Feel Good Friday blog gives us an inside to learning more about the Network staff! Here is what is making us feel good lately! We look forward to sharing our small blurbs and hope you do too. Comment or share what you think...would you like to be included? Send your feel-good moment to Marla
- [Feel Good Friday!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/05/06/feel-good-friday-12/) - Our Feel Good Friday blog gives us an inside to learning more about the Network staff! Here is what is making us feel good lately! We look forward to sharing our small blurbs and hope you do too. Comment or share what you think...would you like to be included? Send your feel-good moment to Marla
- [Addressing Youth Mental Health](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/05/26/addressing-youth-mental-health/) - Our kids are not ok. We must tap tried-and-true solutions like afterschool. Experts have declared children’s mental health “a national emergency,” citing lockdowns, school closures, and other unprecedented challenges related to the pandemic. Young people are experiencing more anxiety, depression, anger, fear, hostility, and aggression. ER visits for teen suicide attempts have dramatically increased. Children
- [New Survey & A Chance to Win!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/05/25/14919/) - Million Girls Moonshot needs your help! Million Girls Moonshot is asking afterschool and summer programs statewide to share information about their programming to help increase the quality of STEM learning opportunities for all young people. Everyone who responds will be entered into a drawing to win one of ten $100 Visa gift cards. Take the
- [Mental Health Toolkit](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/05/24/mental-health-toolkit/) - Georgia Statewide Afterschool Network Mental Health Toolkit Mental health is in the spotlight this year for State Legislators. Georgia has created a Mental Health Toolkit to serve as a tool to help afterschool providers better understand mental health within their programs. Through the tools available, providers learn ways to see, observe, and recognize the ways
- [New Memo from OEC and SDE Address Support Services in Child Care Programs](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/04/26/new-memo-from-oec-and-sde-address-support-services-in-child-care-programs/) - On April 11th the Office of Early Childhood and the State Department of Education released a joint memo to address the need to coordinate services for children who attend child care programs and receive support services (Birth to Three Services, Special Education Services, Early Childhood Consultation Partnership (ECCP). As a former program director myself, this
- [After School Tea Time – Week of 5/10/2022](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/05/10/after-school-tea-time-week-of-5-10-2022/) - Welcome back to this week’s segment of After School Tea Time! Get your tea cups ready because we have more to spill this week! Keep your questions coming because you could be helping someone who has similar questions! Question from New Haven County- Are there any resources for summer programming? We want to incorporate some
- [After School Tea Time – Week of 4/26/2022](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/04/26/after-school-tea-time-week-of-4-26-2022/) - Welcome back to this week’s segment of After School Tea Time! Get your tea cups ready because we have more to spill this week! Keep your questions coming because you could be helping someone who has similar questions! Question from Hartford County- The students in our program have expressed that it is hard to communicate
- [We're Hiring](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/04/25/were-hiring/) - We are looking for a full-time Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Coordinator to join our team. We are the company YOU are looking for. We have a different way of doing things and treating people; we have unusual perks for a non-profit organization. If you are looking to be part of a small team in a
- [Governor Lamont announces $8 Million to continue CT Summer Enrichment 2022](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/04/20/governor-lamont-announces-8-million-to-continue-ct-summer-enrichment-2022/) - We are pleased to share the launch of the 2022 Summer Enrichment Grant Program. Please see the press release for further details. Note that districts are eligible applicants. Please also feel free to share this information with any summer camps, childcare centers, and other programs in your community that might be interested in applying to
- [Feel Good Friday!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/04/15/feel-good-friday-9/) - Our Feel Good Friday blog gives us am inside to learning more about the Network staff! Here is what is making us feel good lately! We look forward to sharing our small blurbs and hope you do too. Comment or share what you think...would you like to be included? Send your feel-good moment to Marla
- [Free Virtual Summer Training Now Available!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2021/05/29/free-virtual-summer-training-now-available/) - Creating a Summer Like No Other: Introducing Summer Re-Boot Camp 2021 Are you looking for training for your summer staff? As we continue to navigate through the impact of the pandemic, many programs will be offering face-to-face camps and activities this summer. With the anticipated hiring of many new staff, there is a need for
- [Feel Good Friday!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/04/08/feel-good-friday-8/) - Our Feel Good Friday blog gives us am inside to learning more about the Network staff! Here is what is making us feel good lately! We look forward to sharing our small blurbs and hope you do too. Comment or share what you think...would you like to be included? Send your feel-good moment to Marla
- [After School Tea Time – Week of 4/4/2022](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/04/05/after-school-tea-time-week-of-4-4-2022/) - Welcome back to this week’s segment of After School Tea Time! Get your tea cups ready because we have more to spill this week! Keep your questions coming because you could be helping someone who has similar questions! Question from Fairfield County- There are a few students in our program who do not favor one
- [After School Tea Time – Week of 3/29/2022](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/03/29/after-school-tea-time-week-of-3-29-2022/) - Welcome back to this week’s segment of After School Tea Time! Get your tea cups ready because we have more to spill this week! Keep your questions coming because you could be helping someone who has similar questions! Question from Hartford County- There was a student in our program who wore a shirt that had
- [Look Up!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/03/02/look-up-2/) - Look who is back! The days are getting a bit longer and skies seems to be clearing as well. So, it is time to look up! As the Earth shifts each season, we come across objects in the sky that are easier for us to notice here in the Northern Hemisphere. What is happening these
- [After School Tea Time – Week of 2/22/2022](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/02/22/after-school-tea-time-week-of-2-22-2022/) - Welcome back to this week’s segment of After School Tea Time! Get your teacups ready because we have more to spill this week! Keep your questions coming because you could be helping someone who has similar questions! Question from Fairfield County - In our program we have snack time every day. The children have the
- [Feel Good Friday!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/02/25/feel-good-friday-3/) - We continue to contribute to our Feel Good Friday blog! Here is what the staff at the Network is feeling good about this week! We look forward to sharing our small blurbs and hope you do too. Comment or share what you think...would you like to be included? Send your feel-good moment to Marla at
- [After School Tea Time – Week of 3/1/2022](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/03/01/after-school-tea-time-week-of-3-1-2022/) - Welcome back to this week’s segment of After School Tea Time! Get your tea cups ready because we have more to spill this week! Keep your questions coming because you could be helping someone who has similar questions! Question from New Haven County- Kids have been wearing masks for about 2 years now, and routinely
- [Feel Good Friday!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/03/04/feel-good-friday-4/) - We continue to contribute to our Feel Good Friday blog! Here is what the staff at the Network is feeling good about this week! We look forward to sharing our small blurbs and hope you do too. Comment or share what you think...would you like to be included? Send your feel-good moment to Marla at
- [After School Tea Time – Week of 3/8/2022](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/03/08/after-school-tea-time-week-of-3-8-2022/) - Welcome back to this week’s segment of After School Tea Time! Get your tea cups ready because we have more to spill this week! Keep your questions coming because you could be helping someone who has similar questions! Question from Hartford County- There is a child in our program who is experiencing some behavioral issues.
- [Feel Good Friday!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/03/11/feel-good-friday-5/) - Our Feel Good Friday blog gives us am inside to learning more about the Network staff! Here is what is making us feel good lately! We look forward to sharing our small blurbs and hope you do too. Comment or share what you think...would you like to be included? Send your feel-good moment to Marla
- [After School Tea Time – Week of 3/15/2022](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/03/15/after-school-tea-time-week-of-3-15-2022/) - Welcome back to this week’s segment of After School Tea Time! Get your tea cups ready because we have more to spill this week! Keep your questions coming because you could be helping someone who has similar questions! Question from New Haven County- There was a situation in our program where a child was being
- [Feel Good Friday!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/03/18/feel-good-friday-6/) - Our Feel Good Friday blog gives us am inside to learning more about the Network staff! Here is what is making us feel good lately! We look forward to sharing our small blurbs and hope you do too. Comment or share what you think...would you like to be included? Send your feel-good moment to Marla
- [Feel Good Friday!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/03/25/feel-good-friday-7/) - Our Feel Good Friday blog gives us am inside to learning more about the Network staff! Here is what is making us feel good lately! We look forward to sharing our small blurbs and hope you do too. Comment or share what you think...would you like to be included? Send your feel-good moment to Marla
- [Look Up!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/04/04/look-up-3/) - They say April showers bring May flowers, but these showers are a bit different. 2022 is proving to be another great year for astronomy. This month, Mercury will continue to be the brightest of the planets and you will be able to see it best on April 10, right above the horizon after sunset. Now
- [Lights on Afterschool Poster Contest](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/03/22/lights-on-afterschool-poster-contest/) - The Afterschool Alliance has opened its 2022 Lights on Afterschool poster contest! This year, they are hoping that student artwork will address a few key topics, including: What their after school program means to themHow it has helped prepare them for the future, and 3) their favorite thing about their after school program. The winning
- [Feel Good Friday!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/02/18/feel-good-friday-2/) - We hope you liked last week's launch of our Feel Good Friday blog! As an expansion to our Happy posts, we wanted to share more than what we are feeling happy for. Many things can contribute to happiness. Happiness in itself is a state of contentment; it is more long-lived than joy or pleasure. On
- [After School Tea Time – Week of 2/15/2022](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/02/15/after-school-tea-time-week-of-2-15-2022/) - Welcome back to this week’s segment of After School Tea Time! Get your tea cups ready because we have more to spill this week! Keep your questions coming because you could be helping someone who has similar questions! Question from Hartford County- In our program we have a strict no electronic hand-held gaming devices policy.
- [Feel Good Friday!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/02/11/feel-good-friday/) - Welcome to our new blog Feel Good Friday! Aa an expansion to our Happy posts, we wanted to share more than what we are feeling happy for. Many things can contribute to happiness. Happiness in itself is a state of contentment; it is more long-lived than joy or pleasure. On the other hand, happiness can
- [After School Tea Time – Week of 1/11/2022](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/01/11/after-school-tea-time-week-of-1-10-2022/) - Welcome back to this week’s segment of After School Teatime! We’ve been receiving many questions about pandemic-related situations, and we want to let you know we are here to support you with advice in any way we can! Keep those questions coming in because you never know who else you might be helping out by
- [After School Tea Time – Week of 1/25/2022](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/01/25/after-school-tea-time-week-of-1-25-2022/) - Welcome back to this week’s segment of After School Tea Time! Get your tea cups ready because we have more to spill this week! Keep your questions coming because you could be helping someone who has similar questions! Question from New Haven County - Recently in our program we had a situation where a child
- [Project Covid DeteCT](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/01/25/project-covid-detect/) - In Case you didn't know... An updated landing page has been launched with important information on the Project COVID DeteCT program. The Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH), along with the Connecticut State Department of Education (CSDE), is offering FREE weekly COVID-19 screening testing to ALL PK-12 public and private schools through the Project COVID DeteCT testing program. Weekly screening
- [After School Tea Time – Week of 2/1/2022](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/02/01/after-school-tea-time-week-of-2-1-2022/) - Welcome back to this week’s segment of After School Tea Time! Get your tea cups ready because we have more to spill this week! Keep your questions coming because you could be helping someone who has similar questions! Question from Fairfield County - There was recently an incident in our program where a child made
- [After School Tea Time – Week of 2/8/2022](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/02/08/after-school-tea-time-week-of-2-8-2022/) - Welcome back to this week’s segment of After School Tea Time! Get your teacups ready because we have more to spill this week! Keep your questions coming because you could be helping someone who has similar questions! Question from Middlesex County- In our program the children take turns reading every day from a book that
- [Million Girls Moonshot Projects & Activities](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/02/10/million-girls-moonshot-projects-activities/) - Below are all the activities posted by the Million Girls Moonshot monthly assets from 2021 – 2022. 10 Team Building Activities for Students – This blog outlines 10 team building activities that can be implemented to help youth develop the skills necessary to collaborate among peers. By accomplishing group tasks, students learn to listen, trust
- [STEM Beyond the School Day Series - Engineering Mindset 10](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2021/06/15/stem-beyond-the-school-day-series-10/) - Engineering Mindset 10 and Beyond : Children Envision Themselves as Engineers Anyone Can Be An Engineer (or STEM professional) with the Right Set of Skills, Opportunities, Supports and Interests So while you might still consider the Wright Brothers and Elon Musk, NASA and aerospace first when you think about engineering; Einstein when you think genius,
- [STEM Beyond the School Day Series - Engineering Mindset 2](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/10/20/stem-beyond-the-school-day-series-2/) - How Do You Solve a Problem? Engineering Mindset #2: Children use a specific problem-solving process: Our lives are filled with all sorts of lovely inventions that meet our needs with ease. We have lights, computers, tools to make projects easier. But how often do you pause to consider where they came from? And if a
- [STEM Beyond the School Day Series - Engineering Mindset 3](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/10/27/stem-beyond-the-school-day-series-3/) - Activity: The Property of Materials and Their Everyday Uses Activity: Materials and Manufacturing
- [STEM Beyond the School Day Series - Engineering Mindset 1](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/12/14/stem-beyond-the-school-day-series-1/) - Engineering Mindset #1: Children Consider Problems in Context Considering and designing with the engineering design process In our last post about the properties and use of materials we talked about finding the right materials to find the best solution to any given challenge. The more you can understand the materials you’re working with, the smarter
- [STEM Beyond the School Day Series - Engineering Mindset 4 or What to Watch on TV](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2021/02/02/stem-beyond-the-school-day-series-4/) - Engineering Mindset #4: Children Consider Criteria and Constraints that Require Tradeoffs If you’ve tried to solve a problem, or teach problem solving skills in a blue sky sort of format you are likely familiar with the expanse of the human imagination. Let’s consider something small like, you’ve got the day off. You just got up
- [STEM Beyond the School Day Series - Engineering Mindset 6 or Math...Yuck!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2021/02/08/stem-beyond-the-school-day-series-6/) - Engineering Mindset 6: Children apply Science and Math Knowledge to Problem Solving Engineers use knowledge of math and science to solve problems. They combine that knowledge with their own creativity to design technologies. Soooo maybe you’re feeling pretty good about engineering and you’re ready to share it with the young people in your life. You’re
- [STEM Beyond the School Day Series - Engineering Mindset 5 - Brainstorming](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2021/03/16/stem-beyond-the-school-day-series-5/) - freepik.com
- [STEM Beyond the School Day Series - Engineering Mindset 8 - Failure](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2021/04/12/stem-beyond-the-school-day-series-8/) - Engineering Mindset 8: Children Persist and Learn from Failure Can you remember a time when you failed? Was it public–a moment when you get a pit in your stomach, your heart sinks, you hang your head, your face gets hot and you suddenly feel like the world is staring and you want to hide. Or
- [STEM Beyond the School Day Series - Engineering Mindset 9 - Team Work](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2021/05/11/stem-beyond-the-school-day-series-9/) - Engineering Mindset 9: Children Work Effectively in Teams When you think teamwork skills as part of afterschool activities, I’m going to guess that science isn’t the first activity that comes to mind. Stereotypes may conjure images of wild-haired, lab-coat donning mad scientists or guys with pocket protectors and sports allergies sitting away from team focused
- [STEM Beyond the School Day Series - Engineering Mindset 7](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2021/10/07/stem-beyond-the-school-day-series-engineering-mindset-7/) - Engineering Mindset 7 : Children evaluate designs and make improvements By Christine Cunningham As mentioned earlier, reflection and evaluation of ideas is critical to the engineering mindset. Children are rarely asked to evaluate their own work, and engineering provides a rich arena in which to practice these skills. Engineering designs can be tested to see
- [The American Institutes for Research Needs Your Help](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/01/25/the-american-institutes-for-research-needs-your-help/) - Calling program leaders and staff! The American Institutes for Research (AIR) is developing a readiness survey and reflection toolkit that will help afterschool, summer, and other out-of-school time (OST) program leaders and staff understand how ready they are for new initiatives or changes. AIR is currently piloting the survey with a focus on social and
- [After School Tea Time - Week of 10/12/2021](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2021/10/05/time-to-spill-the-tea-2/) - Week of 10/11/2021 - Welcome back to After School Tea Time! Take a look at what we’re spilling this week! We have questions from all over Connecticut, so grab your tea cups and get comfortable. This is the tea you don’t want to miss! Question from Middletown- Our program has a long waitlist of kids
- [After School Tea Time - Week of 10/19/2021](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2021/10/19/time-to-spill-the-tea-session-3/) - Welcome back to After School Tea Time! Take a look at what we’re spilling this week! We have questions from all over Connecticut, so grab your tea cups and get comfortable. This is the tea you don’t want to miss! Question from Fairfield County– There was recently a disagreement between two staff members in our
- [After School Tea Time - Week of 10/26/2021](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2021/10/27/after-school-tea-time-week-of-10-25-2021/) - Welcome back to After School Tea Time! Take a look at what we’re spilling this week! We have questions from all over Connecticut, so grab your tea cups and get comfortable. This is the tea you don’t want to miss! Question From Fairfield County– There are a few children in our program who do not
- [After School Tea Time - Week of 11/2/2021](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2021/11/02/after-school-tea-time-week-of-10-25-2021-2/) - Welcome back to After School Tea Time! Take a look at what we’re spilling this week! We have questions from all over Connecticut, so grab your tea cups and get comfortable. This is the tea you don’t want to miss!Question from New Haven County– There are a few children in our program who occasionally pick
- [After School Tea Time - Week of 11/9/2021](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2021/11/09/after-school-tea-time-week-of-11-08-2021/) - Welcome back to After School Tea Time! Take a look at what we’re spilling this week! We have questions from all over Connecticut, so grab your tea cups and get comfortable. This is the tea you don’t want to miss!Question from Fairfield County – Many of the children in our program are struggling with understanding
- [After School Tea Time - Week of 11/16/2021](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2021/11/16/after-school-tea-time-week-of-11-15-2021/) - Welcome back to After School Tea Time! Take a look at what we’re spilling this week! We have questions from all over Connecticut, so grab your tea cups and get comfortable. This is the tea you don’t want to miss!Question from New Haven County – We have two children in our program who are siblings.
- [After School Tea Time – Week of 1/4/2022](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/01/04/as-tea-time/) - Welcome back to After School Tea Time! We hope that you had an amazing holiday break. We are looking forward to spilling more tea with you this year and getting your questions answered. Get your teacups ready because you won’t want to miss out! Question from Fairfield County - "My child’s program just went virtual
- [After School Tea Time – Week of 1/18/2022](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/01/18/after-school-tea-time-week-of-1-18-2022/) - Welcome back to After School Tea Time! Keep those questions coming because you never know who you could be helping. Grab a seat and get your teacups ready for this week’s question! Question from Fairfield County - In our program there has recently been an increase of children who are feeling upset and anxious about
- [January Mentoring Month Event](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/01/04/january-mentoring-month-event/) - In support of January Mentoring Month, Million Women Mentors-CT & The Connecticut Afterschool Alliance invite you to attend this Virtual Coffee event about STEM Pathways. Virtual Coffee about STEM PathwaysWed. Jan. 12, 9:3010:30 am Learn about current and upcoming statewide programs for increasing career path awareness and exposure to STEM futures. Moderated by MWM CT
- [COVID-19 Update](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/01/03/covid-19-update/) - January 2022 Update on Covid-19 Issues for CT After School Providers #1 - TESTS & MASKSGovernor Lamont announced last week that the state will be distributing millions of additional masks and at-home testing kits beginning in January. Every town and school district will be involved, and some have already started distributing the first batch of
- [Women in STEM January Spotlights](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2022/01/03/women-in-stem-january-spotlights/) - This month Million Girls Moonshot is giving the spotlight to 4 amazing women in STEM! These women are all IF/THEN ambassadors which are part of the Girls Collaborative Project. Learn about what it takes to become a Physicist, Rocket Scientist, Aerospace Engineer and a Paleontologist. Click on their videos to meet them and learn more
- [Do it Yourself Mindset](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2021/07/26/do-it-yourself-mindset/) - My cousin posted a facebook picture of a recent “tool” she created to rest her horse’s hoof on for different types of management like hoof cleaning, filing, etc. Kathy (my cousin) owns a multitude of horses and dogs and I am constantly in awe with some of the creations she has used in order to
- [This is What a Scientist Looks Like!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2021/09/06/this-is-what-a-scientist-looks-like/) - Did the picture fool you? We all know that’s what we are thinking but below is a lot closer to what REAL scientists look like. Myria Perez Fossil Preparator Myria Perez is a fossil preparator. She cleans and repairs fossils to make them suitable for study and display. Myria started volunteering in the paleontology department
- [Staff Recruitment Kit](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2021/11/03/staff-recruitment-kit/) - Struggling to hire staff? New staff recruitment kit could help.Like many other industries, the afterschool field has been struggling with staff shortages. These shortages have led to reduced capacity, less availability for students and families, long waitlists, and extra stresses on existing staff — all at a time when programs could really use some relief,
- [#GivingTuesday 2021](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2021/11/02/givingtuesday-2021/) - One Month Until #GivingTuesday 🕒 #GivingTuesday is November 30, 2021. As we quickly approach the year-end giving season, you can support your community and the CT After School Network’s mission. Join us on November 30th for a day of giving. Meeting the needs of kids and families – Afterschool programs are bringing new partners together
- [#GivingTuesday 2020](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/11/02/givingtuesday/) - Together we can change the world. One act of generosity at a time. #GivingTuesday is December 1, 2020. As we quickly approach the year-end giving season, you can support your community and the CT After School Network’s mission. Join us December 1st (or before) and give to our cause. Meeting the needs of kids and
- [Look Up!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2021/09/01/look-up/) - That’s right, look up! Everywhere around us everyone is looking down at a computer screen or phone. Even when on vacation, many tend to take pictures instead of sitting and capturing what is around them visually to record in their memories. If I haven’t said it before, I love looking up! During our What Makes
- [Official Conference Website is Live!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2021/09/14/official-conference-website-is-live/) - The Connecticut After School Network's official 2021 Virtual After School Conference website is now live! We are are happy to have this virtual opportunity once again to come together, celebrate our incredible accomplishments, reinvigorate ourselves for the future, and recognize the amazing difference that after school makes in the lives of so many children. We
- [IT'S TIME to SPILL THE TEA](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2021/09/22/its-time-to-spill-the-tea/) - HEY! EVERYONE! Get your teacups ready because it’s time to "spill the tea" on all things after school! Are you too embarrassed to ask your supervisors certain questions? What if you have problems with your supervisor? Are you not sure who to go to with these questions? After School Tea Time is here to help! After
- [CLASP STEM Application open NOW. Apply today! ](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2021/09/14/apply-today-clasp-stem-application-open-now/) - Are you looking for an opportunity to explore and build comfort with sharing STEM learning as a regular part of your program? Are you a frontline educator and want to learn more about how to bring in cost-effective hands-on exploration of STEM ideas and how they connect with Social Emotional Learning skills. Do you want
- [Advancing to the Next STEM Step in After School](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2021/08/03/advancing-to-the-next-stem-step-in-after-school/) - STEM CLASP Have you been reading our STEM blogs on the Engineering Mindset? Are you motivated to do more STEM work with young people yet? Maybe you’re interested but still could use a little more support? Check out our upcoming fall opportunities below to join us as we work on exploring more Science Technology Education
- [MGM Resources for August](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2021/08/03/mgm-resources-for-august/) - Celebrating National Aviation Day (August 19, 2021) The below assets are free profile videos of IF/THEN Ambassadors. These can be used in marketing, presentations, social media, Videos: Adele Luta Long Profile and Adele Luta On-the-job Videos: Jasmine Sadler On-the-job and Jasmine Sadler STEM Journey Video: Mission Unstoppable: How Do Planes Stay in the Air? Video:
- [Call for Presenters - Fall Conference](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2021/08/13/call-for-presenters-fall-conference/) - The Connecticut After School Network is seeking presenters for its 2021 Annual After School Conference on Friday, November 5th & Saturday, November 6th. This year’s theme is “Making a Difference. Intentional & Impactful After School". We will focus on how after school programs and after school staff make a difference in the lives of
- [Putting Engineering Mindsets in Action](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2021/07/27/putting-engineering-mindsets-in-action/) - Engaging in STEM: Putting Engineering Mindsets in Action So we’ve talked about the engineering mindsets, but let’s look at some ways you can bring them to life in your program. As of late, there has been a lot of talk about going to space. There are many things to consider when making those plans. What
- [Living in Three Dimensions](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2021/07/21/living-in-three-dimensions/) - Another beautiful account from Susan Fisher from the Mystic Museum of Art. I hope you enjoy it. Rose One of the many surprises about emerging from the COVID lockdown is how busy we all are. When I have time to be shocked and surprised, I am shocked and surprised by the sensation of living inside
- [National Leader Strives to Keep Momentum Growing for Afterschool](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/04/22/national-leader-strives-to-keep-momentum-growing-for-afterschool/) - The Charles Stewart Mott Foundation recently profiled Terry Peterson (AKA “Mr. Afterschool”), chair of the Afterschool Alliance, who has spent his career working with students, parents, community groups, and elected officials to increase youth’s access to high-quality public education. Terry has been to Connecticut multiple times to support our work, and this inspirational article about
- [May is Mental Health Month](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/05/01/may-is-mental-health-month/) - Wellness — it’s essential to living a full and productive life. It’s about keeping healthy as well as getting healthy. How are YOU doing in terms of wellness? How well are you doing in terms of helping young people get and stay healthy? Wellness is more than an absence of disease. It involves complete general,
- [Incorporating the Arts Video Series: Something to Say](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/05/15/incorporating-the-arts-video-series-something-to-say/) - In a follow-up to the Wallace Foundation’s report, Something to Say: Success Principles for Afterschool Arts Programs from Urban Youth and Other Experts, released last November, a new video series documenting the interviews with scholars, researchers, and leaders that informed the report is now available. This series of five interviews with experts highlights how arts efforts can
- [Family Engagement Toolkit](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/05/15/family-engagement-toolkit/) - Family Engagement: A Guide to Tools, Strategies and Resources, a new toolkit by TASC (The After-School Corporation), lists strategies and tools to improve family engagement. Not all family engagement strategies are created equal, so this toolkit can help you determine how to create effective partnerships with families. The end of the toolkit includes a directory
- [After School Resource Library](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/06/12/after-school-resource-library/) - This member-only benefit can come handy to your program and staff. Our library includes books, kits and videos all containing research and ideas to enhance your program. Whether you are looking for new program ideas or ways to enhance your meeting topics, we have an array of titles to meet your needs! Make sure to
- [What Do You Think of the New Website?](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/06/25/what-do-you-think-of-the-new-website/) - The Connecticut After School Network has recently launched this new website and blog, and we're looking for YOUR FEEDBACK! Please tell us what you like and don't like, and what you'd like to see more of in the future. Let us know how we can better help you by sending us an email at website@ctafterschoolnetwork.org or
- [Do you have the next Rafael Nadal?](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/06/26/do-you-have-the-next-rafael-nadal/) - Looking for a fun and easy way to teach your students tennis? Then look no further! Tennis in schools provides kids with a fun, easy and safe introduction to the sport that can be played in any space. According to USTA research, youth who play tennis: Get better grades — 48% have an "A" average Have college
- [Everything After School...](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/07/03/everything-after-school/) - ...all in one place! A great addition to our resource library is Expanding Minds and Opportunities: Leveraging the Power of Afterschool and Summer Learning for Student Success Compendium. This groundbreaking series includes reports, commentaries and studies from more than 100 leaders from elected officials, educators, researchers, advocates, and other authors. Edited by Terry Peterson, this
- [Not just a warm body, or, why hiring quality staff matters](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/07/09/not-just-a-warm-body-or-why-hiring-quality-staff-matters/) - Afterschool and summer program directors are often in a pinch and settle for the first person that can fit scheduling needs that suddenly appear out of nowhere. But you don’t have to settle, let me say that again, you don’t have to settle. Hiring smart the first time will prevent headaches save you time and
- [Summer Learning Fun](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/07/10/summer-learning-fun/) - Summer can be a challenging time for staff and students, so why not make it easier using great resources available to you straight from the network. The Kids Summer Games Book and Summer Program Tips, Strategies & Activities for School-Agers 5-14 Years-Old will help your program with scheduling, training for your staff, marketing ideas as
- [Afterschool RFP posted for 21st Century Community Learning Center Grants](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/07/16/afterschool-rfp-posted-for-21st-century-community-learning-center-grants/) - The Connecticut State Department of Education has posted the Request for Proposals (RFP) on-line for the 21st Century Community Learning Centers Competitive Grant. Proposals are due August 21, 2014. The RFPs can be downloaded here: http://www.sde.ct.gov/sde/lib/sde/pdf/rfp/rfp132_21st_CCLC_2015.pdf Eligible applicants include local educational agencies, community based organizations, faith based organizations, other public or private organizations, a consortium of two
- [Attention All Leaders!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/07/17/attention-all-leaders/) - The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership: Follow Them and People Will Follow You, 10th Edition by John Maxwell is one of the best selling leadership books of all time. This newly expanded and updated version, takes Maxwell’s Law of Leadership to a new level with two new Laws of Leadership added and 17 new leadership
- [Helping Kids Thrive](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/07/22/helping-kids-thrive/) - In a recent webinar, Helping Kids Thrive is Job # 1, Tim Duffey of Bolster Collaborative Inc. (www.bolstercollaborative.com) explained that thinking about Positive Youth Development centers on building resilience and helping kids thrive. Thriving means building the good things in youth and enhancing the relationships needed for positive development. During the webinar, Duffey talked about
- [The World Around Us](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/07/24/the-world-around-us/) - Interested in Global Education for your after school program? The Global Education Resource Kit from Heifer International is a FREE resource for educators as well as community leaders interested in bringing new and fun activities to their classrooms while fostering in their students a passion for helping others. This kit offers a unique chance for teachers
- [After School Programs Improve ABCs: Attendance, Behavior and Coursework](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/07/28/after-school-programs-improve-abcs-attendance-behavior-and-coursework/) - A new one page visual helps to make the case for how high quality afterschool programs accelerate student achievement. Research shows that high quality afterschool programs can lead to increased Attendance, Behavior and improved Coursework. This means that students participating in a high quality afterschool program went to school more, behaved better, received better grades
- [Bullying Stops Here](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/07/31/bullying-stops-here-2/) - Bullying is a big problem in schools today. 77% percent of students are bullied mentally, physically or verbally. 1 in 4 teachers see nothing wrong with bullying and will only intervene 4% of the time. In The Bully Free Classroom, Allan Beane spells out more than 100 prevention and intervention strategies your program can start
- [Understanding Child and Adolescent Development](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/08/05/understanding-child-and-adolescent-devlopment/) - In order to provide an after school program that is developmentally appropriate, after school program staff need to understand the sequence of development of school age children and adolescents in the four areas or domains of development: Physical, Social, Emotional and Cognitive. Development experts agree that: All children move through distinct stages of development in
- [Using Self-Control](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/08/07/using-self-control/) - This resource is one of four books in the “Social Skills Curriculum Activities Library”. The CT After School Network houses the Ready-to-Use, Social Skills Lessons and Activities for Grades 1-3 and for Grades 4-6. These books have ready-to-use curriculum based on real-life situations to help you build children’s self esteem, self-control, respect for the rights
- [Charter Oak 2014 Fall Textbooks](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/08/14/charter-oak-2014-fall-textbooks/) - Members enrolled in the Credential in After School Education courses at Charter Oak State College, can save on this Fall semester's courses. The following titles are available for both the first and second, 8 week terms in our Resource Library. Titles available for the Fall: First 8 Week Term (Aug. 25 - Oct. 19, 2014):
- [Working with School Districts and Other Community Partners](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/08/18/working-with-school-districts-and-other-community-partners/) - This is the first of a biweekly series about "The Business of Before and After School." Look for other posts on this topic by selecting Business from the category list below right. Collaboration is the name of the game today! Working with School Districts and other community organizations can produce great outcomes, especially for all the
- [Be Media-Smart](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/08/21/be-media-smart/) - An engaging and exciting curriculum to help youth understand the complex media world around them. Media-Smart Youth: Eat, Think and Be Active! is a fully equipped curriculum with Facilitator’s Guide, a companion DVD and Video with pre and post curriculum activities. This 10 lesson resource includes 90 minute activities for youth ages 11 - 13,
- [The Ten-Minute Trainer](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/08/28/the-ten-minute-trainer/) - From author, trainer and veteran teacher Sharon Bowman, comes The Ten-Minute Trainer. An awesome guide for anyone who wants to spark engagement and learning in the right amount of time. The Ten-Minute Trainer offers a lot of training in as little time as possible. Use your training time wisely and engage your audience without wasting
- [Connecticut Family Development Credential Train the Trainers Training](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/08/28/connecticut-family-development-credential-train-the-trainers-training/) - This Train the Trainer (TOT) training is part of the Family Development Credential & Training Program (FDC) offered by the Connecticut Office of Early Childhood. This five day training institute is based on the successful program and curriculum developed at Cornell University in New York; Empowerment Skills for Family Workers. FDC is a professional development
- [Stipends Available: Through My Window](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/08/28/stipends-available-through-my-window/) - It’s a window on a new destination—where children and young teens (grades 4-8) encounter engineering in a brand new way. Throughmywindow.org is a multimedia educational website that grabs you by the hand and pulls you into a world filled with stories, mysteries, explorations, and adventures. It’s a place where engineering isn’t about building bridges—it’s about asking questions,
- [Poor Student Behavior: Getting the "Message" to Parents](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/09/02/poor-student-behavior-getting-the-message-to-parents/) - This is the second of a biweekly series about "The Business of Before and After School." Look for other posts on this topic by selecting Business from the category list below right. Chronic “border line” student behavior, never clearly breaking the rules that would justify suspension or expulsion from a before and afterschool program, but serious
- [Field Trip Grants from Target](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/09/03/field-trip-grants-from-target/) - Field Trip Grants from Target Deadline: Sept. 30, 2014 Since 2007, Target has funded out-of-school field trips at schools across the country. Each year, grants are awarded in all 50 states, and funding is available for teachers in all grades, K-12. Before you begin, be sure to browse past winners in your area, using Target’s
- [1…2…3… It's Math!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/09/04/123-its-math/) - More than 70 math games, puzzles, and projects from all over the world are included in this delightful book for kids. From the author of many books for children and adults, Claudia Zaslavsky brings you ideas from all over the world to encourage kids to hone their math skills as they use geometry to design
- [Fun Science Activities for All Ages](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/09/05/fun-science-activities-for-all-ages/) - The Hartford YMCA on Broad Street had a very exciting science workshop!!! The workshop covered fun science activities for grades Pre-K thru 8th grade. We learned how far a fired pompom goes, designed rollercoasters for marbles, made sensory moon sand, DIY compasses, and learned all about the fine art of launching marshmallows with catapults and
- [Celebrating 25 years](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/09/09/celebrating-25-years/) - Connecticut After School Network began 25 years ago with a small group of school age child care program directors who met regularly to support one another and share ideas. As the only Network staff member present at the beginning, I remember that the directors knew their staff needed training specifically designed for those working with
- [STEM Training Opportunity](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/09/09/stem-training-opportunity/) - Immersion, a program of JASON Learning, seeks to help all kids share the adventure, excitement, and learning involved in real scientific discovery, to help them succeed academically, and to inspire them to pursue careers in science and related fields. Program materials include interdisciplinary activities, an interactive website, expedition videos, and live webcasts. Prepare your youth
- [Designing Quality Spaces for Out-of-School Time](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/09/11/designing-quality-spaces-for-out-of-school-time/) - A Place of Their Own, Designing Quality Spaces for Out-of-School Time from the National Institute on Out-of_School Time is the second part in a series of videos produced by NIOST. The video provides an introduction to understanding and planning indoor and outdoor spaces for your program. The written material expands the information presented in the
- [Does Handwriting Matter?](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/09/13/does-handwriting-matter/) - I remember reading that schools were starting to abandon handwriting and it left my mind unsettled. My intuition told me that handwriting was important but my logic couldn't tell me why. I haven't heard too many people care either way but maybe they should. Some evidence is starting to come out indicating that handwriting actually
- [Funding Diversification is a Must!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/09/15/funding-diversification-is-a-must/) - This is the third of a biweekly series about "The Business of Before and After School." Look for other posts on this topic by selecting Business from the category list below right. Congratulations, you will receive a grant for three years. This predictable income will allow you to begin your program or to expand into other
- [Ready, Set Go!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/09/18/ready-set-go/) - Do you have children waiting around after finishing their activities? Long line waiting for the bus or bathroom? These are transition times that program deal with during the after school day. This resource will help you make transition time smooth and fun! After-School Transition Activities, The Ready Set Go! Guide to Strategies that Work written
- [Motor Skill Development in After School](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/09/23/motor-skill-development-in-after-school/) - As you observe children between the ages of 5 and 14, you will see improved coordination in both gross and fine motor development. School age children exhibit gains in four large muscle or gross motor areas: balance, flexibility, agility and force. As fine motor skills develop, you will see improved hand-eye coordination and more control of
- [STEM Workshop Opportunity](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/09/24/stem-workshop-opportunity/) - Immersion, a program of JASON Learning, seeks to help all kids share the adventure, excitement, and learning involved in real scientific discovery, to help them succeed academically, and to inspire them to pursue careers in science and related fields. Program materials include interdisciplinary activities, an interactive website, expedition videos, and live webcasts. Prepare your youth
- [Get Creative!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/09/25/get-creative/) - From former program director, Ann Sayre Wiseman, comes a book compiled with activities to encourage youth and adults to use everyday objects in new and exciting ways. Making Things, the Handbook of Creative Discovery has easy to use instructions, clear diagrams and pictures to help your program increase the use of hands on activities. Build
- [Autism: What Every Parent, Family Member, and Teacher Needs to Know](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/10/02/autism-what-every-parent-family-member-and-teacher-needs-to-know/) - In this guide to Austism by Fred D. Volkmar and Lisa A. Wiesner, you can find useful advise for parents and caregivers of children with autism. Fred Volkmar, MD is the Director of the Yale Child Study Center and Lisa Wiesner, MD is a pediatrician in private practice in Orange, CT and an assistant clinical
- [Dying Languages](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/10/03/dying-languages/) - It seems that extinction is not limited to living things-languages can cease to exist. It is forecast that approximately half of the estimated 7000 languages spoken around the world today may possibly die out. Languages become endangered when the only people using them are older adults. Their children tend to adopt more common languages used
- [Grants - USA Today Subscription](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/10/08/grants-usa-today-subscription/) - Classroom Newspaper Subscription Grants from USA TODAY Deadline: Rolling On a rolling basis, the USA TODAY Charitable Foundation awards teachers digital and print subscriptions to USA TODAY. Currently, the foundation is awarding digital subscriptions to teachers on a first-come, first-served basis; print subscriptions are unavailable at the moment. Teachers must submit a short online application
- [Science, Science and more Science Experiments!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/10/09/science-science-and-more-science-experiments/) - "Gooey", "Awesome", "Oozing"... ...these are just some of the words to describe the three book series by Janice VanCleave. A former science teacher, VanCleave is the award winning author of 26 educational activity books. Our resource library houses 3 of her books titled, 200 Gooey, Slippery, Slimy, Weird & Fun Experiments, 201 Awesome, Magical,
- [Connecticut Losing Ground on Afterschool](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/10/16/connecticut-losing-ground-on-afterschool/) - New Household Survey: Support Among Parents is Strong But Unmet Demand for Afterschool Programs in the State is High Connecticut is failing to keep pace with the rest of New England and the nation on participation in afterschool, according to a new household survey commissioned by the Afterschool Alliance. The 2014 edition of America After
- [Scaling Up Afterschool Programs Webinar](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/10/21/scaling-up-afterschool-programs-webinar/) - Scaling Up Afterschool Programs at the Local and National Levels Webinar Join this webinar to hear how they have scaled up programs at the local and national levels, and to learn best practices for scaling up while maintaining program quality and financial stability. Date: Monday, October, 27, 2014 Time: 1:30 PM EDT Duration: 1 hour
- [Measuring Program Outcomes](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/10/23/measuring-program-outcomes/) - Measuring Program Outcomes: A Practical Approach provides a step-by-step approach to developing a system for measuring program outcomes and using the results. In collaboration with United Way of America staff, consultants and other partners this guide will help you through several key steps. Follow four hypothetical programs through the process of planning for outcome measurement.
- [Celebrating Lights on Afterschool Today](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/10/23/celebrating-lights-on-afterschool-today/) - Today, October 23rd, 2014, marks the 15th Annual Lights on Afterschool Celebration. This event is organized annually by the Afterschool Alliance, which is a national organization that promotes and advocates for afterschool programming for all children. As a part of this event, communities come together to host performances, showcase innovative programming, and tout the academic,
- [45,000 year old leg bone found](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/10/24/45000-year-old-leg-bone-found/) - This little story is amazing because it is the OLDEST human bone found. Granted it was only one femur (leg bone) but it proved invaluable for what its genetics told us. Found in a river in western Siberia in 2008, it was turned over to paleontologists who believed it to be a few thousand years
- [Discover the Leader in You!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/10/30/discover-the-leader-in-you/) - President and co-founder of the Praxis Institute for Early Childhood, Debra Ren-Etta, brings you Learning to Lead, Effective Leadership Skills for Teachers of Young Children. A book written for early childhood teachers at all levels. Learning to Lead combines accessible leadership theory and practice with important topics and issues such as human development, diversity, anti-bias,
- [Last Day to Register for Fall Conference!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/10/31/last-day-to-register-for-fall-conference/) - 10/31 is the Last Day to Register for the 2014 Annual Fall After School Conference! 30 Workshops to choose from, including: Classroom management Global arts Fun science activities for all ages Literacy afterschool Fitness and nutrition Youth leadership Grant writing and lots more! For more information and to register, click here.
- [Building a Staff Ladder](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/11/01/building-a-staff-ladder/) - This is the fourth of a biweekly series about "The Business of Before and After School." Look for other posts on this topic by selecting Business from the category list below right. Managing for the long-term success of before and afterschool programs requires many elements, some of which are accomplished on a daily basis and others
- [Election Day 2014 - Vote for Kids Today!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/11/04/election-day-2014-vote-for-kids-today/) - Election Day in the US is the Tuesday following the first Monday in November, which means that it can fall on or between November 2 and November 8 (but not on November 1). If you are 18 years old before election day, you are old enough to vote in today's elections. But more than 800,000 people
- [Leveraging Funds & Partnerships Webinar](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/11/05/leveraging-funds-partnerships-webinar/) - Leveraging Funds & Partnerships to Bring Nutritious Foods to Your Afterschool Program Did you know that your afterschool program could receive nutritious suppers and/or snacks at no cost to your program or participants? Date: Thursday, November 13, 2014 Time: 11:30 AM EDT Duration: 1 hour Hosts: Genevieve Caron, End Hunger Connecticut! Join End Hunger Connecticut!
- [Bringing Yourself to Work](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/11/06/bringing-yourself-to-work/) - This professional development text aims to help directors and staff to create healthier learning environments for children and youth in after-school programs. Bringing Yourself to Work: A Guide to Successful Staff Development in After-School Programs outlines the support and skills needed by staff to increase self-awareness, sustain healthy relationships and improve group dynamic. Bringing Yourself
- [Fountain of Youth](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/11/08/fountain-of-youth/) - Ever heard of a hydra? Somewhere in the back of my mind I remembered studying this in biology. Hydra's were always interesting because you could multiply them quite easily. All that was soon forgotten but has been resurrected for me in a most curious manner. The tiny hydra doesn't seem to have a short lifespan
- [Giveaways and Grants](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/11/12/giveaways-and-grants/) - Quill’s Coolest Classroom Chair Ever! Giveaway Sponsor: Quill.com Enter by November 20 No. of Winners 4 Selection: 12/1/2014 Prizes Four lucky teachers will each receive one Safco® Runtz™ 4755BL Ball Chair designed with an anti-burst exercise ball. No more flash cards! How do you use e-learning to boost student achievement? Sponsor: Benesse America
- [Everyone Wins!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/11/13/everyone-wins/) - Looking for new games and activities for your after school program? Great! We always have a resource for that. Everyone Wins! Cooperative Games and Activities is packing with over 150 games and activities for children in our programs. This easy to use guide is a great reference for teachers family members and group leaders. All
- [Summer & After School Advocacy Calls Scheduled](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/11/18/summer-after-school-advocacy-calls-scheduled/) - Do you want the State of Connecticut to expand state funding for summer and after school programs? We do too! Now that the election is over, we need to finalize our 2015 legislative agenda, and we need your input. The Connecticut After School Network will have a series of conference calls over the coming weeks
- [Designs for the First Schools on Mars!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/11/18/designs-for-the-first-schools-on-mars/) - (and other intentional Marketing Strategies for successful afterschool programs) This is the fifth of an occasional series about "The Business of Before and After School." Look for other posts on this topic by selecting Business from the category list below right. To maintain, strengthen and grow a thriving organization, program directors and administrators must always be
- [The Business of After School Mini-Conference 12/4](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/11/18/the-business-of-after-school-mini-conference-124/) - WHEN: Thursday, December 4, 2014, 9:00 am – 3:00 pm WHERE: Best Western Executive Hotel 490 Sawmill Rd, West Haven, CT 06516 WHO: Program Managers, Directors and Site Supervisors, as well as Program Staff who want the skills needed for advancement COST: $75.00 – Members $100.00 - Non Members Registration Deadline: November 24, 2014 Morning
- [Crowdfunding](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/11/19/crowdfunding/) - I'm sure most of you may know the word "crowdfunding". For those of you who don't, Wikipedia defines it as "the practice of funding a project or venture by raising monetary contributions from a large number of people, typically via the internet". Generally it would be the same as if you did a call tree
- [Challenging Behavior in Young Children](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/11/20/challenging-behavior-in-young-children/) - Challenging Behavior in Young Children, Understanding, Preventing, and Responding Effectively provides in-depth background information and strategies to help pre-service and practicing teachers understand, prevent, and address the behavior problems found often in after school programs. Do you need a little extra help identifying behavior problems in your children? Would you like strategies to prevent certain
- [Kids React to Old Cameras](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/11/21/kids-react-to-old-cameras/) - This is a wonderful video to watch with your students (has a learning component). The youtube video also has links to other reaction videos.
- [After School Grant Spared from Budget Cuts](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/11/21/after-school-grant-spared-from-budget-cuts/) - . . . For Now . . . On Thursday, November 20, Connecticut Governor Dannel Malloy announced $54.6 million dollars in cuts to state agencies in an effort to help close a $99.5 million budget deficit for the current fiscal year. The primary state funding for after school grants remains untouched. It remains to be
- [Adventures in Peacemaking](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/11/27/adventures-in-peacemaking/) - Another great resource for those after school teachers looking for ways to resolve conflict in their after school program. Is peacekeeping becoming the focus of your program instead of your day to day planned activities? Are children working together and you would like to continue the trend? Adventures in Peacemaking, A Conflict Resolution Activity Guide
- [Telling Your Afterschool Story Webinar](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/12/02/telling-your-afterschool-story-webinar/) - Telling Your Afterschool Story: Strategies for Effective Advocacy at the Local, State and Federal Levels Thursday, December 11, 2014 1:00-2:00pm EST Webinar Description: Though often left off of after school job descriptions, promoting after school programs is a long-term sustainability and should be included in your everyday work. Join us on this webinar to learn
- [Who Wants to Play?](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/12/04/who-wants-to-play/) - Would you like to infuse a burst of fun in your program? Transform groups into cohesive and caring teams? Do it all while playing games! Great Group Games has over 175 Games to wipe out boredom. Great Group Games is organized into six stages of group development and represents a variety of learning styles. It
- [What Happened to Women in Computer Science?](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/12/05/what-happened-to-women-in-computer-science/) - Some of you are aware that periodically Google will offer little coding projects on their home search page. I like to partake in those,they are actually fun. The program that they use is called Google Blockly and EVERYONE can program. They created this wonderful program so they could interest girls (mostly) in programming. Why? Because
- [Smart 365 Days a Year](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/12/11/smart-365-days-a-year/) - From making a monster mask to going on a bike photo safari, 365 Smart Afterschool Activities will let kids' imaginations soar with terrifically fun things to do during those valuable afterschool hours and beyond. 365 Smart Afterschool Activities is perfect for parents, teachers, grandparents, babysitters and youth leaders. Illustrated by children, a terrific variety of
- [Training New Staff](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/12/18/training-new-staff/) - Training New After School Staff: Welcome to the world of School-Age Care! is an easy-to-use tool for school-age program directors with limited time and resources to help new staff "get up and running quickly" with their responsibilities. Each section of the handbook provides interactive questions and scenarios which staff can work through independently, along with
- [Kids with Autism – Best Practices for Inclusion Webinar](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/12/18/kids-with-autism-best-practices-for-inclusion-webinar/) - Kids with Autism - Best Practices for Inclusion Thursday, January 8, 2015 1:00-2:00pm EST Webinar Description: NJSACC continues it's efforts for inclusion of children with disabilities in New Jersey's out-of-school time programming, with this professional development webinar. Inclusion is more than letting children with disabilities into your afterschool program. The true essence of inclusion is
- [Stipends still available for "Talk To Me" STEM training](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/12/18/stipends-still-available-for-talk-to-me-stem-training/) - Through My Window is excited to announce the official paperback publication of Talk to Me, a full length young adult mystery novel that introduces upper elementary and middle school students to engineering. The novel is a great resource for afterschool STEM programming as well as book clubs, library programs, STEM clubs, and more! Children and
- [2015 After School Seminar Series](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/12/19/2015-after-school-seminar-series/) - ARE YOU BREAKING THE LAW? Register NOW for January's After School Seminar Series Legal Issues in After School January 8, 2015, Hartford Our discussion will focus on the legal implications of after school employees when working with children on a daily basis. We will discuss what they should know about school law in after school programs. We will
- [The Battle for Iron](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/12/20/the-battle-for-iron/) - You all know that iron is an essential nutrient in our body, it is also the most common nutritional deficiency in the United States. Iron is a very important part of your red blood cells. It carries oxygenated blood throughout your body and without it you cannot make enough healthy red blood cells so your
- [Afterschool Programs Focus on the Whole Child](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/01/06/afterschool-programs-focus-on-the-whole-child/) - Academic measures of progress are but one measure of student success. Research has shown the social and emotional impacts afterschool programs play in the healthy development children. One of the issues we encounter in the field of afterschool is the fragmentation of programming that is either dedicated to one or the other, and not emphasizing
- [Partnering with Google to Enhance Your AS Program Webinar](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/01/12/partnering-with-google-to-enhance-your-as-program-webinar/) - Partnering with Google to Enhance Your After School Program Tuesday, February 3, 2015 11:30-12:30pm EST Webinar Description: Empowering all students to create with technology through free computer science clubs. Google CS First provides free, easy-to-use computer science (CS) enrichment materials that target and engage a diverse student population. CS First materials: are completely free and
- [Using Chemistry Methods in the Kitchen](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/01/17/using-chemistry-methods-in-the-kitchen/) - We use science everywhere, we just tend not to think about it. If you like to cook you may wonder why your cake, bread, casserole did not turn out as expected. In this article Tessa Arias "deconstructs" cupcakes to find out what make a great one. She uses a control cupcake to test how small changes
- [Best Buy Community Grant](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/01/21/best-buy-community-grant/) - Best Buy Foundation will donate up to $2 million in Community Grants to local and regional nonprofit organizations that provide teens (13-18) with places and opportunities to develop 21st century technology skills that will inspire future education and career choices. Examples of program activities include: Computer programming Digital imaging (photography, graphic design, videography) Music production Robotics
- [What's a Fractal?](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/01/23/whats-a-fractal/) - Jack Frost visited my car this week. Jack left me a particularly beautiful rendition of a fractal. So beautiful that I HAD to take a picture of it. Below is that picture (I cropped out the less desirable aspects). It got me wondering once again about the formation of ice crystals and then the nerd
- [2015 After School Seminar Series](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/01/26/2015-after-school-seminar-series-2/) - Register NOW for February's After School Seminar Series Special Needs and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) February 20, 2015, Stamford Are YOU breaking the law without realizing it in your after school or summer program? Sometimes simple awareness can save your program thousands of dollars in legal fees and litigation. Assistant United States Attorney Lisa Perkins, will provide an overview of
- [American Savings Foundation After School Grant](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/01/28/american-savings-foundation-after-school-grant/) - Programs may serve children from any age group and from any community in our service area. The term “after school programs” covers a wide range of youth development programs that are conducted outside of the school hours, in the afternoon, evening, on weekends or holidays. The site may be a school building, or any community
- [Showy Science](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/01/29/showy-science/) - Looking for great science activities? Showy Science is an exciting book with over 175 hands-on activities. Another great resource that uses everyday household items and very easy to use. Your students will explore the world around us through water, air, animals, plants and other exciting topics. It contains step-by-step directions and careful explanations of the
- [NIOST Summer Seminars](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/02/03/niost-summer-seminars/) - Registration is Open! Take Advantage and Get 2013 Rates! NIOST Summer Seminars provides hands-on learning opportunities for youth development professionals to enhance their summer and school year programs. Below is a summary of their offerings for 2015. As you plan ahead for 2015, be sure to include professional development opportunities at NIOST's annual Summer Seminars for afterschool,
- [Supporting LGBTQ Youth in Afterschool Webinar](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/02/03/supporting-lgbtq-youth-in-afterschool-webinar/) - Supporting LGBTQ Youth in Afterschool Thursday, February 12, 2015 1:00 - 2:00 pm EST Webinar Description: Safer spaces are created when youth feel not only included but encouraged to be their whole selves. Using developmental frameworks and identity models, Kira Manser will share an individualized approach to understanding gender and diversity. Participants will learn how to recognize
- [SBM Charitable Foundation, Inc](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/02/04/sbm-charitable-foundation-inc/) - The purpose of the Foundation is to fund programs that improve the quality of life for all residents in the communities it serves. The Foundation contributes to a wide range of organizations that foster economic development as well as social well-being. Organizations must be tax exempt under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code or
- [Breaking New Ground on the Frontier of Innovation: Any Time, Any Place, Any Path, Any Pace Learning](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/02/04/breaking-new-ground-on-the-frontier-of-innovation-any-time-any-place-any-path-any-pace-learning/) - There is a certain allure to being on the edge of something new, something innovative, something exciting. Think for a second about having to have the new iPhone, new Playstation, the new Fitbit. Education reform is similar with trends, fads, measures, and terminology. Some of these notions stick and become part of the vernacular, others
- [The After School Cookbook](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/02/05/the-after-school-cookbook/) - What better way top teach kids about the world than through a little comfort food! From Australia to the Americas, and everywhere in between, author Deanna Cook brings more than 75 ethnic dishes. Kids will love to learn to cook while enjoying games, cultural traditions and customs from around the world. With step-by-step instructions and
- [#NAA2015](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/02/11/naa2015/) - #MyAfterSchoolStory We all have a story about afterschool - and it's time to share yours! In a few words, tell your story using the downloadable graphic, snap a picure with it, and then share using the hashtag #MyAfterSchoolStory. At #NAA2015 they will focus on the power of storytelling and how to craft a powerful. memorable
- [Fun Literacy Activities](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/02/12/fun-literacy-activities/) - Fun Literacy Activities for After-school Programs: Books And Beyond is a handbook for staff in after school programs to increase their capabilities in supporting literacy. More than 72 activities for ages 5 - 14! In need of some ideas to help your staff with your literacy component? This resource book has ideas, answers and explanations
- [After School & Summer Advocacy Call TODAY Wednesday 2/18 @ 2PM](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/02/14/after-school-summer-advocacy-call-wednesday-218-2pm/) - ADVOCACY CONFERENCE CALL Wednesday, February 18, 2015, 2:00 PM – 2:30 PM Phone: 866-740-1260 Access code: 7944978# STATE POLICY: Governor Malloy is releasing his budget proposal TODAY, Wednesday, February 18 at noon and we'll have a call at 2 pm to discuss the implications for the current state legislative session. DETAILS: The budget is expected to
- [Amazon Smile, the best way to shop and give at the same time!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/02/16/amazon-smile-the-best-way-to-shop-and-give-at-the-same-time/) - You shop. Amazon gives. It's that simple. Take two minutes to select the Connecticut After School Network as your charity of choice before shopping on Amazon, and they'll donate half a percent to the Network. All you have to do is use the website smile.amazon.com and select the Network as the charity you want to
- [Gov. Malloy Proposes Two-Year State Budget for Connecticut](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/02/18/gov-malloy-proposes-two-year-state-budget-for-connecticut/) - In his proposed budget for the next two fiscal years, Connecticut Governor Dannel P. Malloy included a number of changes that would impact state funding for after school and summer programs. For those of you who love detail, the the entire budget proposal is on-line here. For the rest of you, here's a quick summary:
- [The Science Chef](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/02/19/the-science-chef/) - Want to keep your after school cooking program fresh and interesting? We gave you ideas for multicultural recipes, now we are kicking it up a notch. Make food lovers fall for science! The Science Chef is filled with over 100 fun food experiments and recipes for kids! Teach basic science through cooking with easy-to-perform projects.
- [A Tale of Two Summers](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/02/25/a-tale-of-two-summers/) - Ahh summer, can't wait for it to be here after the winter we've had. But like any season, summer has its problems, especially for working families. What to do with the kids? With more than 50 million school age children, parents are frazzled trying to cobble together programs for their children. Many are lucky enough
- [What Teens Need to Succeed](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/02/26/what-teens-need-to-succeed/) - A great resource for any teenager in your after school program. What Teens Need to Succeed gives them the power to shape their own future and change their lives for the better, by making a difference in the lives of people around them.Our resource library is packed with books for everyone in after school. Share
- [2015 After School Seminar Series](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/02/26/2015-after-school-seminar-series-3/) - Register NOW for March's After School Seminar Series Grant Writing March 31, 2015 - Hartford Running low on Funds? Want your program to have financial stability? This workshop will teach you where to look for funding to support your after school or summer program. It includes how to identify potential funders, how to develop your idea into a proposal and
- [After School Day at the Capitol March 3rd](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/03/02/after-school-day-at-the-capitol-march-3rd/) - Governor Malloy and the Connecticut General Assembly need to hear from you about the importance of after school and summer programs. These programs need more funding, not less! Check out our 2015 advocacy agenda for more details. Join youth, parents, and providers at the Capitol on Tuesday, March 3rd to show your support at the Appropriations
- [Through My Window Stipends Still Available!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/03/02/through-my-window-stipends-still-available/) - Working with older elementary and middle school students? Stipends still available to implement Through My Window literacy and engineering program! Now is the perfect time to implement Through My Window in your after school program! Why? In response to requests from educators everywhere, we're excited to announce that the full-length young adult STEM mystery novel Talk
- [2015 Childhood Conversation Conference](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/03/05/2015-childhood-conversation-conference/) - EARLY BIRD PRICING ENDS TOMORROW, FRIDAY, MARCH 6! Directors do you have the hours needed to comply with licensing requirements? You can earn up to 9 hours over the 2 days of the conference. Be a financial hero - register before Friday to save money and win a chance to attend next year's Childhood Conference for free! 2 Days basking in Knowledge; feeding your stomachs and minds!
- [How to Talk So Kids Will Listen...](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/03/06/how-to-talk-so-kids-will-listen/) - A National Bestseller, How to Talk So Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talk and video series, will give you the know-how you need to be effective with your program students. This resource is a full of practical and innovative ways to solve common problems and build foundations for lasting relationships. You can
- [Connecting Social-Emotional Learning with Student Achievement](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/03/09/connecting-social-emotional-learning-with-student-achievement/) - A cornerstone of after school programming has always been to support the social and emotional needs of children. After school provides the opportunity for teamwork, collaboration, empathetic expression, and other “soft skills” children need for the 21st century workforce. These experiences, according to Durlak and Weissberg (2013), are a contributing factor to student achievement as
- [After School Programs are At Risk](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/03/10/after-school-programs-are-at-risk/) - After School programs are at risk of losing federal funds Congress is considering legislation that threatens the only funding source dedicated to after school, the 21st Century Community Learning Centers initiative, with extinction. It’s crucial that a diverse and broad set of voices tell Congress to keep funding intact for the after school programs that are
- [Educator's Weekend at Mystic](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/03/12/educators-weekend-at-mystic/) - Save the Date! Educators' Weekend at Mystic Seaport April 18-19 2015 Join Us for our 13th Annual Educators' Weekend at Mystic Seaport on April 18-19, 2015. The weekend features free admission for teachers, administrators, afterschool professionals, and their families (up to four people total with ID). Learn more about our new website for teachers, primary source
- [Grant Writing Seminar (TWO DATES)](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/03/12/grant-writing-seminar-two-dates/) - Register NOW for our upcoming Seminar on Grant Writing, two dates available! Grant Writing March 31, 2015 - Hartford April 8, 2015 - Hartford Running low on Funds? Want your program to have financial stability? This workshop will teach you where to look for funding to support your after school or summer program. It includes how to identify potential
- [Tinkering and the Intersection of Formal and Informal Learning Webinar](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/03/23/tinkering-and-the-intersection-of-formal-and-informal-learning-webinar/) - Tinkering and the Intersection of Formal and Informal Learning Webinar Grab a 12" x 12" piece of tinfoil and be ready to explore how tinkering ("making") is fast becoming a trans formative learning opportunity, a platform to reinforce and measure 21st century skills and a powerful means for collaboration across multiple learning environments. Hosted by
- [Taking on Turnover](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/03/26/taking-on-turnover/) - Every time a caregiver leaves, children experience loss. Turnover rates in after school are rising each year and can only worsen year after year. Break the silence that has surrounded turnover in school age programs. Taking on Turnover is a guide perfect for programs who dramatically want to reduce the serious problem of job turnover
- [Origins of Chemotherapy](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/03/27/origins-of-chemotherapy/) - All of us know someone who has had cancer. We talk about radiation and chemotherapy but have you ever wondered where and how it all started? I came across a post through a Facebook page called "Reactions" that intrigued me. It was called “How Chemistry Changed WWI”. After reading through it I would have titled
- [My Voice in DC](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/03/30/my-voice-in-dc/) - Earlier this month, the National Afterschool Association held their Annual Convention just outside of Washington, DC. The focus of the convention was telling the story after school programs play in the lives of children and youth everyday. A group of students from Connecticut were selected to be on a workshop panel to share their thoughts, ideas,
- [Science and the Doubting Thomas](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/04/03/science-and-the-doubting-thomas/) - An article by Joel Achenbach for National Geographic asks, "Why Do Many Reasonable People Doubt Science?". I wondered the same thing myself. I've found people who adamantly refuse to believe that something has happened or existed even if the proof was presented. The article is fairly long but absolutely answers this particular vexing question. John Oliver,
- [TWO After School Seminars available in April](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/04/06/two-after-school-seminars-available-in-april/) - Register NOW for our upcoming Seminars on Grant Writing and Challenging Behaviors! Grant Writing April 8, 2015 - Hartford Running low on Funds? Want your program to have financial stability? This workshop will teach you where to look for funding to support your after school or summer program. It includes how to identify potential funders, how to develop your
- [2015 Summer Staff Kick-Off](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/04/14/2015-summer-staff-kick-off/) - Join us on Saturday, June 13, 2015 for our Summer Staff Kick-Off Mini Conference! Get your staff "SUMMER READY" for your program with AMAZING workshops... Workshop I: Summer Program Safety Peggy Kelley, Assistant Director of School Age Programs, Education Connection This workshop is packed with simple tips on how to keep your kids safe throughout your
- [STEM Uncovered: Video Competition](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/04/16/stem-uncovered-video-competition/) - ANNOUNCING: 2015 STEM Video Competition sponsored by the Noyce Foundation with support from the C.S. Mott Foundation Kids are always told to dream BIG– afterschool programs allow them to do just that. Uncover the work of your program and students, and tell us what really happens in STEM afterschool. Through support from the Noyce Foundation
- [2015 "Lights On" Afterschool poster contest!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/04/20/2015-lights-on-afterschool-poster-contest/) - Calling all afterschool artists! Your artwork could be displayed at more than 8,000 Lights On Afterschool events around the world! The Afterschool Alliance is looking for the best artist to showcase their creativity on this years’ Lights On Afterschool poster! Encourage all of your program participants to submit artwork that celebrates afterschool programs and conveys the
- [Team Challenges](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/04/23/team-challenges/) - Take team building to another level! Teach youth how to communicate within groups in a entertaining and delightful way. With over 170 group activities, you can build cooperation, communication and creativity.This resource is great for teachers, facilitators and counselors. Bridge a bridge using marshmallows and toothpicks. Work together to move a pile of pin-pong balls
- [May's After School Seminars](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/04/27/mays-after-school-seminar-last-one/) - We hope you have enjoyed all our topics this year. Register NOW for our last After School Seminars this school year! This Seminar will show you new, innovative ways for children to learn about healthy lifestyles. Promoting Healthy Lifestyles May 11 - CASN Office, Hartford Come learn about how after school programs in CT have implemented a three-year successful
- [Appropriations Committee Budget Released](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/04/27/appropriations-committee-budget-released/) - Legislative Update - Monday April 27, 2015 The Appropriations Committee has just released its budget proposal at a press conference this morning. Co-Chair Rep. Toni Walker was especially supportive of after school programs in her remarks describing the committee's proposed budget: "We maintained the support for education, for our K-12 system, for our early childhood
- [Competency-Based Learning Webinar](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/04/28/competency-based-learning-webinar/) - Join network colleagues on Wednesday, May 13th from 1:00pm-2:00pm EST for a webinar on Competency-Based Learning: From Curiosity to Career. Review Maine's educational innovations, and learn about Project Login's competency model that aligns anytime, anywhere learning resources with collaborative learning activities and integrates workforce data into a next-generation model for learning. Presenters will include the
- [Call for Presenters](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/04/29/call-for-presenters/) - The Connecticut After School Network is seeking presenters for its 2015 Annual Fall Conference on Saturday, November 14th at the Cooperative Arts and Humanities Magnet High School in New Haven. This year’s theme is Skill Up for Kids! Giving After School Staff the Tools They Need If you are interested in presenting, please complete the
- [Fun Things You Never Learned in School](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/04/30/fun-things-you-never-learned-in-school/)
- [Give while shopping!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/05/04/give-while-shopping/) - You shop. Amazon gives. It's that simple. Take two minutes to select the Connecticut After School Network as your charity of choice before shopping on Amazon, and they'll donate half a percent to the Network. All you have to do is use the website smile.amazon.com and select the Network as the charity you want to
- [Social Media Outreach Strategies for OST Programs Webinar](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/05/04/social-media-outreach-strategies-for-ost-programs-webinar/) - Social Media Outreach Strategies for OST Programs Webinar With most Americans today engaging with at least one social media site, social media is a valuable (and cost-effective) way to reach your community. In this webinar, communications experts from Burness Communications will walk through goal setting strategies to effectively leverage social media to advance your program's
- [Youth Programs...Promoting Quality Services](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/05/07/youth-programs-promoting-quality-services/) - I think we can all agree that providing high-quality, high impact services to youth is the focus of many of your programs. In this resource, you will learn if your practices are tied to this goal.Youth Programs: Promoting Quality Services combines both theoretical and practical information to help you in the program planning process. Areas
- [Early Bird Prices Registration Extended!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/05/07/early-bird-prices-registration-extended/) - Summer Staff Kick-Off Mini Conference Early Bird Prices (SAVE over $25.00 per person) registration deadline extended until Friday, May 15th! Take advantage and register your summer program staff to take part in a full day of engaging workshops. Don't miss out! $80.00 – CT After School Network Professional Member $145.00 – Non Member $150.00 –
- [After School Grant Bidder's Conference](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/05/07/state-after-school-bidders-conference/) - The 2015 State Department of Education After-School Grant Program for Grades K-12 Purpose: To implement or expand high-quality programs outside school hours that offer students academic/educational enrichment and recreational activities in grades K-12 that are designed to reinforce and complement the regular academic program of participating students. Session 1 When: Wednesday, May 13 Where: 75
- [The Legal Costs of Inclusion in After School and Summer Programs Webinar](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/05/11/the-legal-costs-of-inclusion-in-after-school-and-summer-programs/) - The Legal Costs of Inclusion in After School and Summer Programs Webinar Are YOU breaking the law without realizing it in your after school or summer program? Participating in this webinar will give you knowledge and peace of mind. There have been changes made over the years to the ADA. Do you know how they affect your programs? Every
- [After School Grant RFP Posted](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/05/12/after-school-grant-rfp-posted/) - The Connecticut State Department of Education has posted the Request for Proposals (RFP) on-line for the After-School Grant Program for Grades K-12. Proposals are due June 15, 2015. The RFP can be downloaded from their website here. Eligible applicants include local educational agencies, community based organizations, faith based organizations, other public or private organizations, a
- [Issues in Children's and Families' Lives](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/05/14/issues-in-childrens-and-families-lives/) - School activities alone are not always sufficient to ensure children's academic progress or socio-emotional development and well-being. We offer after school programs because we know the time right after school is also the time that they are at high risk to act as perpetrators or be the victims of antisocial behavior. Throughout A Blueprint for
- [CSDE Bidders' Conference Information](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/05/14/csde-bidders-conference-information/) - For those of you who missed the first session of the CT State Department of Education's After School Grant Bidder's Conference, you can still register for the morning or afternoon sessions on Friday, May 22 here. Below are links to the handouts and Request for Proposal (RFP). RFP link, click here. Slide Presentation information, click here.
- [Help Teachers Handle Student Discipline Problems](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/05/21/help-teachers-handle-student-discipline-problems/) - We all have student discipline programs and we all have great staff working for our programs...but do they know how to handle discipline issues? This resource is proven to help teachers bring out the nest in students of all ages.T.E.T. Teacher Effectiveness Training can mean the difference between an unproductive, disruptive classroom and a cooperative,
- [Still time to Register!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/05/26/still-time-to-register/) - Join us on Saturday, June 13th for an amazing day of Summer Fun! Conference Fees $105.00 - CT After School Network Professional Member $170.00 - Non Member $175.00 - Conference fee + Individual Comprehensive Membership Conference registration fee includes: Attendance at three workshop sessions (preregistration is required), continental breakfast and lunch. Certificates of attendance will
- [Fall Conference RFP Deadline!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/06/04/fall-conference-rfp-deadline/) - We are currently accepting Request for Presenter forms for the 2015 Fall Conference in New Haven, CT. Attached you will find the RFP form and detailed information regarding the conference. Please note that we have changed the schedule to include two 45 minute sessions. Please be sure to indicate if you are able to present
- [After School Grants Program Flat Funded in State Budget](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/06/04/after-school-grants-program-flat-funded-in-state-budget/) - The state legislative session has ended for the year, and a budget was passed in the final hours. For all the details you can see the details here. Youth Service Bureaus also seem to pretty much intact. A few questions remain from some of the larger line items that include multiple programs, such as the
- [Connecticut’s Own Tracey Lay! National Afterschool Association 2015 Board Candidate](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/06/05/connecticuts-own-tracey-lay-national-afterschool-association-2015-board-candidate/) - This month, a new slate of board members will be voted on for the National Afterschool Association. In the running this year is Connecticut’s own Tracey Lay. She is the Director of School Age Programs and Development Services at EDUCATION CONNECTION in Litchfield. Here is some information for you to get to know her better…
- [Annual Meeting and 2015 Legislative Debriefing](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/06/09/annual-meeting-and-2015-legislative-debriefing/) - ANNUAL MEETING & 2015 LEGISLATIVE DEBRIEFING OF THE CONNECTICUT AFTER SCHOOL NETWORK! Wednesday, June 17th 10:30-11:30am 75 Charter Oak Avenue, Building 1, Hartford This is your network, we want to hear your ideas! Join us in an interactive discussion about how to improve social and emotional outcomes in our afterschool programs. Please RSVP by email to Rose at rdugas@ctafterschoolnetwork.org
- [ATTENTION: NAA Board Election Voting Deadline Friday June 12th (Vote for Tracey Lay!)](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/06/10/attention-naa-board-election-voting-deadline-friday-june-12th-vote-for-tracey-lay/) - The deadline to vote for the 2015 NAA Board of Directors is quickly approaching. Voting closes Friday June 12th! With nine candidates running, your vote matters Connecticut! Take a few minutes today and vote for Tracey Lay. Having worked in the field for over 25 years and serving on multiple statewide boards and committees, she
- [NAA's Social Emotional Survey](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/06/11/naas-social-emotional-survey/) - NAA Wants to Award You with a $50 Gift Card NAA, the leading national organization dedicated to the practice of afterschool wants to learn more about the capacity of the afterschool field to affect social and emotional learning (SEL). Please complete the quick survey below to help us in our efforts, and enter to win
- [Imagine Dragons/Afterschool Video](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/06/11/imagine-dragonsafterschool-video/) - A celebration of after school programs featuring Imagine Dragons' "Top of the World". This video premiered at the 2015 National After-School Summit hosted at USC through the USC Schwarzenegger Institute. https://youtu.be/KxWiNczm1ik
- [Grant Readers Needed!!!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/06/18/grant-readers-needed/) - ​One-day Volunteer Opportunity, with a Hawaiian theme! The Connecticut State Department of Education is currently looking for a few good grant readers to help them evaluate grant proposals for after school programs. This is an unpaid, one-day volunteer commitment on June 30, 2015 from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Stanley Black and Decker University Conference Center in New Britain, CT.
- [Summer Learning](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/06/19/summer-learning/) - Enriching Summer Programs Mean Success for All Children: How to Close the Achievement Gap Did you know that children who don’t have an enriching summer environment can lose up to 1/3 of what they learned over the past school year? Most of the children who experience this “Summer Slide” are minority children from low-income
- [If you're ever going to be near water this summer, please read this](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/06/24/if-youre-ever-going-to-be-near-water-this-summer-please-read-this/) - Drowning Doesn’t Look Like Drowning In many child drownings, adults are nearby but have no idea the victim is dying. Here’s what to look for from Slate.com: http://slate.me/Zqm3k9 The two minutes you spend reading this could save a life! This article in Slate.com was written by by Mario Vittone, who is retired from the Coast
- [What It Takes to Put Children on the Road to Success](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/06/24/what-it-takes-to-put-children-on-the-road-to-success/) - A Framework for Understanding What Kids Need to Succeed As Adults A new report released yesterday brings together decades of research from many fields to show that children need more than academic knowledge alone to succeed in life. Foundations for Young Adult Success: A Developmental Framework names seven key factors to life success, shows when and where they develop, and
- [Soft Skills Tip #1: Delayed Gratification](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/06/25/soft-skills-tip-1/) - Soft Skills. You've heard the phrase, but turning it into something meaningful and straightforward, something that impacts your day-to-day interactions with children, is another matter. Soft skills, sometimes called emotional intelligence or social-emotional learning, is a catch-all phrase for the kinds of non-academic skills that are linked to success in school and in life. It
- [New Membership Rate](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/07/01/new-membership-rate/) - As of today, July 1, 2015, we will no longer offer Organizational Memberships. Not to worry...If you renewed your organizational membership this past year, we will continue to honor all benefits for your organization until your expiration date. Going forward we now have one membership option - $50.00 per person. Benefits: Discount for the Connecticut
- [Inspiring Greatness: New Resource Library Book](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/07/10/new-resource-library-book/) - Inspiring Greatness in Education Inspiring Greatness in Education describes the 21st Century Schools program (21C), a whole-school reform model developed by Edward Zigler over 20 years ago and since then has been in a constant state of testing, implementation, and scaling up. This book will provide an in-depth case study examination of the experience of
- [The School to Prison Pipeline Conference](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/08/07/the-school-to-prison-pipeline-conference/) - The School to Prison Pipeline Conference is a day for students, teachers, administrators, activists, and law enforcement officials to come together and discuss the harsh policies and practices used by under-resourced schools that funnel students into the criminal justice system for minor violations of school rules. This forum will raise the consciousness of educators and
- [Call for...](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/08/18/call-for/) - Calling for exhibitors, advertisement and bag stuffers for our 2015 Fall Annual Conference Click here to access application.
- [Introducing First Fridays and Deep Dive Sessions Training Workshops](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/09/04/introducing-first-fridays-and-deep-dive-sessions-training-workshops/) - Connecticut After School Network is switching it up! Now offering... First Fridays On the first Friday of each month, after school educators come together with content 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
- [What's the Eye Got to do with It???](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/09/04/whats-the-eye-got-to-do-with-it/) - So welcome back. It's been a very quiet summer. Recently I heard a program on NPR about pupil shape. You know, those dark holes in the center of your eyes. They open up when it's dark and they shrink when it's bright. Bet you never thought about the shape of those pupils. You already know
- [Free, Innovative Afterschool STEM Program with Stipends Available](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/09/04/free-innovative-afterschool-stem-program-with-stipends-available/) - Innovative STEM programming is a great way to start the new school year! Through My Window is free multimedia curriculum that combines engineering, technology, literacy, and arts for children and young teens in grades 4-8! The Through My Window learning environment (throughmywindow.org) includes the STEM mystery novel Talk to Me; online learning adventures (modules) that allow
- [Everything you didn't want to know about Poison Ivy](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/09/11/everything-you-didnt-want-to-know-about-poison-ivy/) - Poison ivy, the plant we love to hate. How much do you know about it? Could you identify it? What makes it "poison"? What happens when you get the oil (urushiol) on you skin or clothes? How do you treat it? The effects of poison ivy go back ages but the first published records date
- [Dr. Ken Anthony on Making Partnerships Work in Education](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/09/15/dr-ken-anthony-on-making-partnerships-work-in-education/) - The CT After School Network is so proud of our own Ken Anthony, who recently completed his Doctorate in Education at the University of Hartford. His innovative research explores school-afterschool partnerships and identified ways to increase collaboration that help support children's learning experiences, and it's already turning heads! In fact, Ken was recently featured in AERA
- [Fall Conference Keynote Speaker](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/09/17/fall-conference-keynote-speaker/) - INTRODUCING ...to this Fall's After School Conference....Leslie Beller, your INTERACTIVE keynote speaker and founder of MHA Labs. (Means and Measure of Human Achievement) You will find her engaging and insightful; a speaker who practices what she preaches. In her hands-on workshop you will work in teams to create skill-building activities that are directly related to
- [Grantee Orientation](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/09/17/american-savings-foundation/) - Date: Oct 16, 2015 Location: New Britain YWCA, 19 Franklin Square, New Britain, CT (Free parking is available on premises) Time: 9:30 AM - 12:00 PM Waterbury Grantees 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM - APT overview New Britain Grantees 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM Please make sure you choose your correct session during registration. [button
- [Minecraft as an Education Tool!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/09/21/minecraft-as-an-education-tool/) - The other day, I had a conversation with Ken Anthony, our Director of PD and Research. Ken is an expert in after school program quality, and challenges us all to think more creatively about how to engage children in learning. One of his central messages is that we need to start from the interests of
- [More Connecticut Support Needed for Afterschool in the Every Child Achieves Act](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/09/23/more-connecticut-support-needed-for-afterschool-in-the-every-child-achieves-act/) - Local voice matters...I recently looked over the signatories of a letter that is going to Congress about after school. As I looked down the list, after Arkansas and California's large showing, I got to Connecticut. Only two organizations had signed on. According to the Afterschool Alliance blog, this letter was signed by more than 100 national and 560
- [Nominate a Parent You Know!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/09/28/nominate-a-parent-you-know/) - Parenting is often said to be both the toughest and the most rewarding job in the world. In the after school world, it’s easy to get so focused on what we need from parents that we sometimes forget to honor them for their hard work and dedication. What’s more, for parents who are struggling to
- [Lights on Afterschool is Coming!!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/09/29/lights-on-afterschool-is-coming/) - REGISTER YOUR LIGHTS ON AFTERSCHOOL EVENT TODAY On October 22nd, communities across the country will come together for Lights on Afterschool, the only nationwide celebration of afterschool. If you are a program provider, a parent, a community member or a program participant, you know there is a lot to celebrate. Afterschool programs across the country
- [What You Missed: First Friday on Homework Time](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/10/02/what-you-missed-first-friday-on-homework-time/) - As you may know, the Network created a brand new Professional Development Catalog full of creative, exciting, and unusual learning activities for after school professionals. And today was our very first First Friday, Making Homework Time Work. We were expecting it to be fun, and it was even better than we'd hoped! We explored group
- [Professional Development Catalog 2015-16](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/10/05/new-to-the-connecticut-after-school-network/) - We are excited to share our newly developed 2015-16 Professional Development Catalog. This one stop resource lays out an entire year of professional development offerings for after school directors, supervisors, and front-line staff. In addition to some of our staples that include webinars and on-site training, several new additions have been added to meet your goals
- [Programming for Global Learning Webinar](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/10/07/programming-for-global-learning-webinar/) - The Statewide Afterschool Network Webinar Series is Back! Join the New Hampshire After School Network as they host the first in this series. Programming for Global Learning - Sparking interests and fueling passions, afterschool programs create pathways of opportunities. A variety of global learning experiences in your afterschool program can provide a window into the
- [Defiant Children: How to Respond and De-Escalate Overwhelming Situations](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/10/13/defiant-children-how-to-respond-and-de-escalate-overwhelming-situations/) - DEEP DIVE SATURDAY TRAINING: De-escalation: How to Respond to Defiant Children and Overwhelming Situations Saturday, October 17, 9 am - 12 noon, Hartford Register by end of the day Thursday 10/15 Positive behavior management strategies are intended to help children make good choices. But what about children who continuously struggle? How do you handle situations
- [Be part of CLASP!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/10/14/be-part-of-clasp/) - Coaching & Learning for After School Professionals (CLASP) A Rich, In-depth, Professional Development Opportunity What it's all about: The Connecticut After School Network is launching two year-long intensive learning cohorts focused on increasing student engagement through intentional programming that helps support student success. We will be offering 12 slots in two locations (6 in each)
- [Lights On, Bullying, and Hip Hop](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/10/22/lights-on-bullying-and-hip-hop/) - Hello, friends of After School! Today is Lights On Afterschool, a day focused on nationwide advocacy and celebration of the after school field. We here at the CT After School Network were talking about how powerful the impact of our field can be, and our Executive Director, Michelle, told me this incredible story that really
- [Upcoming Training Opportunities from CREC](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/10/23/upcoming-training-opportunities-from-crec/) - After School Professional Development Opportunities at CREC (Capitol Region Education Council) Online registration is available at www.crec.org/tls/events. If you have questions, please contact Erika Scott-Jones at 860-524-4004, or escottjones@crec.org. 21st Century Community Learning Centers Brochure Developmental Relationships: Why do they matter? - October 30, 2015 Parent-Teacher Home Visits: Forging Partnerships That Increase Student Success - November
- [The Potential and Pitfalls of Partnerships (Nov 6th First Friday)](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/10/26/the-potential-and-pitfalls-of-partnerships-nov-6th-first-friday/) - Collaboration has been the buzzword for the past eight to ten years and with good reason. Partnerships allow your program to expand offerings, get more voices at the table, and perhaps serve more kids in the process. There is potential in collaboration that if left untapped could leave your program as a sole island in
- [Assessment of Program Practices Tool (APT) Training](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/10/28/assessment-of-program-practices-tool-apt-training/) - The Assessment of Program Practices Tool (APT) is a research-based tool to measure and improve program quality. The Assessment of Program Practices Tool (APT) was developed by the National Institute on Out-of-School Time (NIOST) for afterschool programs engaged in continuous quality improvement. This tool is ideal for assessing specific, observable elements of program quality. Learn
- [Funding available: Students Stand With Malala](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/11/03/funding-available-students-stand-with-malala/) - As you know, as a young teenager, Malala Yousafzai was targeted for speaking out on behalf of girls' education in her region of Swat Valley in Pakistan; at age 15, she was shot in the head while on the bus to school with friends, sparking international media outrage. Building on her activism in Pakistan, Yousafzai
- [CASE STUDY: Partnering with local museums after school and in the summer](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/11/12/case-study-partnering-with-local-museums-after-school-and-in-the-summer/) - The Bruce Museum in Greenwich, Connecticut has kicked off a new year of school and family programs. There is one component of the year that the Bruce Museum staff are all especially looking forward to: their partnership with ROSCCO, a participant in our Neighborhood Collaborative program. ROSCCO has been providing on-site After School programs in
- [2015 Fall Conference Reminders](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/11/13/2015-fall-conference-reminders/) - We are so excited to have you join us this Saturday, November 14th at the Co-Op Arts and Humanities High School in New Haven!!!! Here are a few important details for the day: You can park free of charge in the Crown Street Garage at 213 Crown Street but you must pick up a validation
- [December Workshop Opportunities](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/11/18/december-workshop-opportunities/) - First Fridays - Fitting in Learning Date: December 4, 2015 Time: 10:00 - 12:00pm Location: CASN Office, Building 1, Hartford After a long day of school, and snack and homework time, it can be a real struggle to fit enriching content into your program schedule. What's more, many educators feel bored at the very idea
- [Opportunities for Elevating Afterschool in 2016 Elections Webinar](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/11/23/opportunities-for-elevating-afterschool-in-2016-elections-webinar/) - Mark your calendars and join us! Opportunities for Elevating Afterschool in 2016 Elections Webinar Date: Monday, December 7th Time: 2pm-3pm EST Duration: 1 hour Description: Major election years bring increased public dialogue on issues like the economy and education, but breaking through the din is challenging. What are the trends and opportunities networks can take advantage
- [Think CT needs more after school and summer programs?](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/12/01/think-ct-needs-more-after-school-and-summer-programs/) - We do. And so do the 213,766 Connecticut children who would be enrolled in a program if one were available to them. We need your help to turn this number around. Did you know that youth spend only 20% of their waking hours in school? How they invest the other 80% of their time is a
- [2016 Childhood Conversations Conference](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/01/06/2016-childhood-conversations-conference/) - How Are the Kids in Your Village? Strategies to Strengthen Your Part of the World Saturday, April 2, 2016 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Hartford-Windsor Marriott, Windsor, CT Breakfast, lunch, snacks, dessert, free parking, and conference materials will be provided. Over 20 workshops! Morning Keynote: Whatever Happened to, “Go outside and play?” Replacing Screen Time
- [Superheroes Unmasked](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/01/08/superheroes-unmasked/) - Everyone has a superhero within. Superheroes Unmasked empowers children to learn from the inside out. Superheroes Unmasked, An Amazing Approach to Helping Children Learn Social/Emotional Insights and Skills, is a student focused program teaching emotional awareness and coping skills as they relate to self-esteem, team building, bullying and leadership. By using superheroes and villains kids
- [Your Input Matters!!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/01/08/your-input-matters/) - Proposed CCDF (Care 4 Kids subsidy) Plan Open for Comment The Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG) Act is the law that authorizes the federal child care subsidy program known as the Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF). It is the primary Federal funding source devoted to providing low-income families that are working or
- [Incorporating Restorative Justice in Afterschool Settings Webinar](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/01/11/incorporating-restorative-justice-in-afterschool-settings-webinar/) - Join the The Rhode Island Statewide Afterschool Network as they host this month's webinar. Incorporating Restorative Justice in Afterschool Settings - What is restorative justice? How is incorporating restorative justice techniques into afterschool programming empower students to resolve their conflicts as a community? The Rhode Island Statewide Afterschool Network and Youth in Action, an organization based
- [Upcoming Workshop Opportunites](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/01/12/upcoming-workshop-opportunites/) - First Fridays - Essentials of Grant Writing Date: February 5, 2016 Time: 10:00 - 12:00pm Location: CASN Office, Building 1, Hartford Looking for funding to support your after school or summer program? How do you identify potential funders and develop your idea into a proposal and budget? We will discuss ways to make your case more
- [Saying Goodbye](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/01/19/saying-goodbye/) - This month one of our staff retired. We fondly (behind her back) referred to her as one of our founding mothers. Sue Krampitz was our office manager. She was a whiz bang at it also. You didn't get away with not submitting your receipts or making small mistakes in your timesheet. She is and was
- [Discovering Great Artists](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/01/22/discovering-great-artists/) - "Discovering Great Artists" has 75 great artists featured in 110 amazingly fun and unique quality art appreciation activities for children. They will experience the styles and techniques of the great masters, from the Renaissance to the Present. A brief biography of each artist is included with a fully illustrated, child-tested art activity, featuring painting, drawing,
- [5 Things to Know About Boys](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/01/22/5-things-to-know-about-boys/) - I received a newsletter from the website: childtrends.org which piqued my interest considering it is a much talked about subject in my family. Basically we ask, "what the heck is going on with boys". Well Child Trends took a stab at it and analyzed a 2010-2011 National Survey of Children's Health and supplemented the data
- [STEM Learning Webinar](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/01/25/stem-learning-webinar/) - STEM Learning 2016: Collaboration, Communications and Curriculum to increase opportunities for young people - Welcome to the future of STEM Learning, where new opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics learning for youth happen across communities both in and out of school. The webinar will highlight what's coming in the STEM learning sphere in 2016,
- [Is Snow Safe to Eat?](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/01/29/is-snow-safe-to-eat/) - WATCH OUT WHERE THE HUSKIES GO AN' DON'T YOU EAT THAT YELLOW SNOW WATCH OUT WHERE THE HUSKIES GO AN' DON'T YOU EAT THAT YELLOW SNOW Frank Zappa So the questions is, "can I eat snow that isn't yellow, or brown, or anything but white". The answer? Well, yes and no. A lot of it
- [Upcoming Free PD from Mystic Seaport](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/02/01/upcoming-free-pd-from-mystic-seaport/) - UPCOMING FREE PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT SESSIONS, NEWLY DESIGNED WEBSITE FOR TEACHERS, AND RESEARCH FELLOWSHIP OPPORTUNITY FROM MYSTIC SEAPORT! The Historian as a Detective with Dr. Elysa Engelman Wednesday, February 10, 4-6 pm The world around us is filled with primary source material and clues about the past. It’s also filled with legends and stories that may
- [State After School Funding AT RISK](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/02/04/state-after-school-funding-at-risk/) - The 2016 session of the General Assembly opened today (Wednesday, February 3) with Governor Malloy releasing his proposed budget adjustments for the year starting July 1. State revenues are still below what was expected for the current year, and the situation looks even more bleak for next year with a shortfall of $570 million or
- [2/5 TRAINING POSTPONED DUE TO SNOW](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/02/04/25-training-postponed-due-to-snow/) - FIRST FRIDAYS – ESSENTIALS OF GRANT WRITING – WILL BE RESCHEDULED The Connecticut After School Network First Friday training on the Essentials of Grant Writing which had been scheduled for tomorrow, Friday, February 5 is postponed because of the impending snow storm. Weather experts have just increased the expected amount of snow accumulation for tomorrow morning
- [What is the Big Bang? - Resources for You](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/02/05/what-is-the-big-bang-resources-for-you/) - Most scientists agree that the universe started about 14 billion years ago. It is sometimes hard to explain to children how this happens - even scientists aren't sure what came before (although they do have theories). We do know that all the particles of the universe were contained within one small ball called a singularity.
- [Summer Fun!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/02/05/summer-fun/) - The summer every kid dreams of and every grown-up longs for...Summer Fun! Susan Williamson, longtime children's book editor and teacher, has captured that elusive combination.Summer Fun! 60 Activities for a Kid-Perfect Summer combines endless carefree days and unrestrained silliness peppered with just the right amount of feel-good accomplishment. Get silly, celebrate the outdoors, get creative
- [Mini Grant Opportunity](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/02/11/mini-grant-opportunity/) - Attached is mini grant opportunity for a Youth and Gambling Awareness Project provided through CREC and the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS). Awarded applicants will receive $750 to complete a public awareness project that focuses on youth gambling. Eligible applicants must be able to meet the criteria listed below: Have at least
- [Beyond the Bell](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/02/19/beyond-the-bell/) - Are you new to the after school field and expanded learning? Maybe you want to make big or small changes to your existing program. Beyond the Bell will help you!This guide is meant to be used by program leaders from both community-based and school-based programs to help you through all the challenges of starting and
- [Upcoming Workshop Opportunites](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/02/22/upcoming-workshop-opportunites-2/) - Please note some of our February workshops were rescheduled due to inclement weather! Our new dates are listed below...register today! Deep Dive Session - ADHD: Going Deeper Date: February 26, 2016 Time: 9:00-12:00pm Location: CASN Office, Building 1, Hartford ADHD is one of the most frequent diagnoses in young people, and can be befuddling and
- [Oral Health Advocacy Grants](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/03/02/oral-health-advocacy-grants/) - ORAL HEALTH ADVOCACY GRANTS – APPLY BY APRIL 4, 2016 For the third consecutive year, CT Health is pleased to announce the availability of oral health advocacy grants to increase the number of oral health champions in Connecticut, especially unusual suspects. Click on the following link to find out more information. >>>Download Request for Proposals
- [Tell Us What You Need](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/03/02/tell-us-what-you-need/) - The Connecticut After School Network is absolutely committed to improving what we offer you and we need your feedback. This bi-annual Professional Development Survey will help us help you. Please tell us how you feel, what you like, and areas that we need to focus on to help you and your programs be successful. There
- [Fizz, Bubble and Flash](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/03/03/fizz-bubble-and-flash/) - What do elements have to do with your everyday life? They make your world -- and beyond -- move and groove, fizz, bubble and flash! Fizz, Bubble & Flash, Element Explorations & Atom Adventures for Hands on Science Fun! helps you discover what you have in common with party balloons, footballs, computer chips, pizza dough,
- [Great Program to Add to your STEM After School Toolbox](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/03/11/great-program-to-add-to-your-stem-after-school-toolbox/) - STEM has been greatly talked about but also under funded. This program costs nothing but contributes to diversity in computer science, inspires students, and can prep students for future technology skills. I personally believe that it also teaches children to "think outside the box". What is this great program? It's a web site called code.org.
- [Soooo, was after school STEM money in the Federal budget?](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/03/21/soooo-was-after-school-stem-money-in-the-federal-budget/) - We’re all interested in extra money coming to afterschool programs. A nice report came from the website, Afterschool Snacks. It breaks down the President’s final budget request on STEM education and where it fits into after school. You can read the full document here but I’m going to give you a further breakdown because I
- [Out-of-School Time Cost Calculator](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/03/28/out-of-school-time-cost-calculator/) - Here is a super easy tool from the Wallace Foundation (updated 2015) to help you determine the costs of high quality after school and summer programming. Curious to know how long it will take you? Took me 3 minutes! http://www.wallacefoundation.org/cost-of-quality/pages/default.aspx
- [Invest in after-school programs to ensure Connecticut’s future](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/03/29/invest-in-after-school-programs-to-ensure-connecticuts-future/) - Mark Fopeano is the Program Manager at Dwight Hall at Yale. Like all of us he knows the hard decisions that the legislature has to make in order to balance our budget. He also knows that you need to also understand which programs are good investments and will save money in the long run. He
- [Upcoming Workshop Opportunites](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/03/30/upcoming-workshop-opportunites-2-2/) - April has made its way here and its all about parent connections...Check out these upcoming workshops! First Fridays - Teaming Up with Parents Date: April 1, 2016 Time: 10:00 - 12:00pm Location: CASN Office, Building 1, Hartford Engaging families in your program starts with finding lots of ways to include parents so that they feel
- [USTA Equipment & Monetary Grants Available](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/04/05/usta-equipment-monetary-grants-available/) - The USTA New England is a non-profit organization that seeks to promote and develop the growth of tennis. All USTA member dollars help to promote tennis at the local level. Each year, grants are awarded to assist organizations in initiating or expanding tennis programming. These grants are used to develop and grow instructional programs and/or organized league
- [National Stress Awareness Month](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/04/08/national-stress-awareness-month/) - April is stress awareness month. Did you know that adults are not the only ones who can suffer from stress? Many, many parents don't even know their children are stressed. [metaslider id=3734] Thanks to www.gozen.com for the infographic
- [Childhood Food Insecurity Webinar](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/04/12/childhoodfoodinsecurity/) - Join network colleagues for a webinar on Childhood Food Insecurity: What It Means, What It Looks Like, And What You Can Do About It. From the "achievement gap" to increased risks of hospitalization, the effects of childhood food insecurity reach far beyond the dinner table. Hosted by the Maine Afterschool Network, Shannon Coffin and Madelyn Holm
- [Afterschool Professionals Week](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/04/13/afterschool-professionals-week/) - Celebrate Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week April 25-29! #heartofafterschool Afterschool programs make a difference in the life of a child. Afterschool programs offer youth opportunities for enhanced education. At the heart of afterschool programs are those who work with them. Take a moment to thank those who dedicate their careers to working with them. Check
- [2016 Lights On After School Poster Contest](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/04/20/2016-lights-on-after-school-poster-contest/) - The 2016 Lights On Afterschool Poster contest is OPEN! This is a great opportunity for an afterschool program to gain national recognition for the opportunities it offers. The winning design will be printed on tens of thousands of posters and mailed to more than 8,000 Lights On Afterschool events worldwide. The winning artist's afterschool program will be
- [Brain-Building in Afterschool](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/04/25/brain-building-in-afterschool/) - Is brain-building just for early childhood? In recent years, we have learned enormous amounts about how brain development is impacted by interactions with people and their environment. Among other things, we’ve learned that the lack of opportunity for exposure to a wider array of learning opportunities increases the achievement gap between low and high income
- [Family Engagement](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/04/27/family-engagement/) - 5 Ways to Build Strong Relationships in a Fast Paced Culture Family engagement has a life-long impact on the lives of children and comes in many forms. As professionals in the field of after school and expanded learning, it is important to remember that even though we may not see a child’s family at school
- [Upcoming Workshop Opportunites](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/04/28/upcoming-workshop-opportunites-may/) - We still have more for you - Check out these upcoming workshops in May! First Fridays - Choosing the Right People Date: May 6, 2016 Time: 10:00 - 12:00pm Location: CASN Office, Building 1, Hartford Hiring competent staff for your after school and summer program doesn’t have to be drudgery. Knowing what you want your
- [After School Mentoring - What the Study Found](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/04/29/after-school-mentoring-what-the-study-found/) - NIOST published an informative document in their fall 2015 magazine written by Sara McDaniel, Anna-Margaret Yarbrough, and Kevin Besnoy who conducted a literature review on Out of School Time mentoring programs. Their study revealed seven components and six kinds of activities that make such programs effective in meeting youth's needs. The document can be downloaded by
- [After School BUDGET CUTS - CALLS NEEDED TODAY!!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/05/03/after-school-budget-cuts-calls-needed-today/) - Call your legislators today, Tuesday, May 3, 2016! The Governor and legislators are deep into budget negotiations today, and the Governor's most recent proposal released yesterday would cut the After School Grant program by 20%. While some cuts are to be expected in the face of the state budget crisis (the Democrats recommendations on 4/28
- [Summer Staff Kick-Off](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/05/04/summer-staff-kick-off/) - Most of you are familiar with our Summer Staff Kickoff. The Summer Staff Kick-Off is designed to provide program staff with tools that will help make their jobs easier and equip them with techniques to engage children. This year, the Summer Staff Kick-Off will be offered at three locations and contain two – 1 1/2
- [Community-wide Partnerships to Support Student Success Webinar](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/05/06/childhoodfoodinsecurity-copy/) - Relationships between schools and afterschool programs can be problematic. However, effective partnerships can have a big impact on student learning, attendance, and behavior. This webinar will provide an overview on the research on effective partnerships, followed by school district personnel in Connecticut who will discuss their experience creating partnerships with a wide range of community
- [Super Summer ...... Five ways your community can #KeepKidsLearning](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/05/10/super-summer-five-ways-your-community-can-keepkidslearning/) - How would our communities look, feel and achieve differently if every child, not just those with means, had a place to eat and a way to keep learning over the summer months? Communities across the country are making great gains in expanding resources in the summer for young people. And while their successes offer a
- [You are Cordially Invited!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/05/17/you-are-cordially-invited/) - To the Connecticut After School Network Annual Meeting Come find out what we have BEEN doing, what we PLAN on doing, and HOW we are doing. Bring your questions and enjoy a light lunch/brunch. Join Us! Tuesday, June 7th at 10:30-12:00pm Hartford Nonprofit Center Building 2, Wyllis conference room. Please register so we know how
- [2016 Fall Conference Call for Presenters RFP](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/05/18/fall-conference-rfp-deadline-copy/) - We are currently accepting Request for Presenter forms for the 2016 Fall Conference in Cromwell, CT. Attached you will find the RFP form and detailed information regarding the conference. Please share this RFP with any colleagues who may be interested in presenting. All RFPs are due by Friday, June 15, 2016. Please contact Monica Whalen
- [Supporting Grieving Children in Afterschool & Summer Learning Programs Webinar](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/06/03/childhoodfoodinsecurity-copy-2/) - Join the Afterschool Alliance, Thursday, Jun 9, 1:00 P.M. – 2:00 P.M. EDT (10:00 A.M. – 11:00 A.M. PDT), as they help out-of-school professionals learn basic skills in how to talk with and support students as they struggle to understand and cope with a loss in their lives. The vast majority of children experience the death
- [Books Beat the Summer Reading Slide](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/06/05/books-beat-the-summer-reading-slide/) - For kids, few moments in life are more glorious than the end of the school year and the start of summer vacation. Hooray! Three whole months of sweet freedom! But when school’s out, kids from low-income families have a real problem on their hands. While their more affluent peers may be visiting libraries, attending summer
- [If you or your kids will go in the water this summer, please read this](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/06/13/if-youre-ever-going-to-be-near-water-this-summer-please-read-this-copy/) - Drowning Doesn’t Look Like Drowning In many child drownings, adults are nearby but have no idea the victim is dying. Here’s what to look for from Slate.com: http://slate.me/Zqm3k9 The two minutes you spend reading this could save a life! This article in Slate.com was written by by Mario Vittone, who is retired from the Coast
- [ENTER TO WIN One of 3 Pink Basketballs](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/06/15/enter-to-win-one-of-3-pink-basketballs/) - Help Us Spread the Word and You Can Win A Pink Basketball! The Connecticut After School Network recently received a donation of these great pink basketballs that are originally from the NYPD. We need to reach more people who care about after school and summer programs for kids in Connecticut, so help us spread the
- [The Families that can't Afford Summer](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/06/17/the-families-that-cant-afford-summer/) - WHAT are your kids up to this summer? Sounds like a casual question. But for working parents at this time of year, it’s loaded. What have you managed to pull together that will keep your kids engaged, healthy, happy and safe, while still allowing you to keep feeding and clothing them? For most parents, summer,
- [Upcoming Double Deep Dive Sessions](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/06/17/upcoming-double-deep-dive-sessions/) - We still have more for you - We are now offering our new Double Deep Dive Sessions Series. Starting with these two upcoming workshops in July and August! Double Deep Dive Sessions -De-Escalation: How to Respond to Defiant Children and Overwhelming Situations Date: June 12, 2016 Time: 9:00 - 3:30 pm Location: CASN Office, Building
- [Happy Father's Day - 5 Ways Father's Matter](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/06/19/happy-fathers-day-5-ways-fathers-matter/) - Fathers make important contributions to their kids' development---and do so in ways that are different from mother's contributions. Fathers are more likely to use advanced language around young kids, which promotes vocabulary development. Fathers also tend to prioritize rough-and-tumble play, letting kids explore, and playing more than caretaking, which establish independence and positive social skills.
- [Top 4 Key Factors of High Quality OST Programs](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/06/20/top-4-key-factors-of-high-quality-ost-programs/) - With an estimated 10 million students currently enrolled in out-of-school-time (OST) programs, providing high quality experiences is essential for the well-being of participants. According to the Grantmakers for Education’s Funders’ Guide to Quality in OST, participation in these programs allow students to engage in areas of study that are limited during the school day. That
- [Are your pool's lifeguards up to the job?](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/06/23/are-your-pools-lifeguards-up-to-the-job/) - Do you take your kids to the water in the summer? Eight ways to know if your lifeguards are up to the job—and are being given the support they need. Here’s the full article from Slate.com: http://slate.me/1KZ8xfI The two minutes you spend reading this could save a life! Also, check out "Drowning Doesn't Look Like
- [Curbing Summer Learning Loss & Keeping Youth Safe!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/07/01/curbing-summer-learning-loss-keeping-youth-safe/) - Summer vacation provides youth a much needed period of relaxation and recreational freedom before the next academic year. However, what is intended to be a few months of revitalization often results in a loss of academic skills, access to healthy meals, and a safe environment. According to the National Summer Learning Association (NSLA), youth from
- [CT student wins national top honor](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/07/05/ct-student-wins-national-top-honor/) - Did you know that Connecticut sent 55 winning students from the Connecticut Invention Convention to the National Convention and tied with Ohio for the most awards received? Makes you proud. A 14 year old Southington student won the National award. Lucca Riccio invented the “message mask” that took the top honor. That peaks your curiosity,
- [Make Your Beach Vacation A Learning Experience](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/07/19/make-your-beach-vacation-a-learning-experience/) - Making your next trip to the beach enjoyable as well as educational for your children is easier than you think. It’s just a matter of exploring and making use of the beach’s natural environment. The beach can be a fun atmosphere to practice or revisit a variety of skills and subjects including: math, science, geography,
- [Bullying](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/07/27/bullying/) - The definition of bullying is, "the use of superior strength or influence to intimidate (someone), typically to force him or her to do what one wants". Based on this definition it seems like everyone has been bullied. When it affects our own children that's when we tend to need it to be stopped in its
- [Technology - Cleaning Our Oceans](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/07/29/technology-cleaning-our-oceans/) - It's called the great pacific garbage patch. I'm sure many of you are familiar with the problems our oceans face with plastic so I'm not going to quote statistics or show you horrible pictures. Instead I'm going to show you something positive that is taking place. A creation of a 21 year old student named
- [21st Century Community Learning Centers' Bidders Conference Scheduled](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/08/04/21st-century-community-learning-centers-bidders-conference-scheduled/) - Bidders Conference on Monday, August 15, 2016 The Competitive Grant Bidders Conference will provide information on the major components and criteria for developing proposals for the 21st Century Community Learning Centers’ Out of School Time Grant Program. Eligible applicants include local educational agencies; community-based organizations; faith-based organizations; other public or private organizations; and a consortium
- [Nonprofits!  Get Ready for the 2016 Election!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/08/07/nonprofits-get-ready-for-the-2016-election/) - Now is the Perfect Time for Nonprofit After School Programs to Strengthen and Support Our Democracy With the national political conventions dominating the news the last few weeks, you may be ready (or beyond ready) for the 2016 election season to be over! In reality, now is the perfect time for your nonprofit to start
- [Connecticut Family Engagement Conference 2016](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/08/22/connecticut-family-engagement-conference-2016/) - Social Justice and Equity: Making a Difference Together October 26 Conference sponsored by CSDE and CREC Indisputably, students do better socially, emotionally, and academically when families, schools, and communities work together. The family engagement conference will bring together professionals who work at the intersection of student and family to examine social justice issues and principles of equity. Participants will
- [How Educators Are Taking Advantage of Pokémon Go!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/08/22/how-educators-are-taking-advantage-of-pokemon-go/) - By now you’ve heard about and perhaps even played the latest internet craze known as Pokémon Go! Although the app was just released in early July 2016, it has completely captured the attention of youth and adults alike, quickly becoming a global phenomenon. While enthusiasts argue the game encourages kids to get outside and socialize
- [5 Tips to Kick Start the School Year](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/08/24/5-tips-to-kick-start-the-school-year/) - The upcoming fall 2016 school year represents a generally challenging transition for students everywhere. After months of recreational freedom, educators often struggle to get their students back in an academic frame of mind for the first few weeks. Fortunately, Edutopia has comprised a list of tips educators can use to interact with their students prior to the
- [Back-to-School Resources for Parents](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/08/29/back-to-school-resources-for-parents/) - Are your children prepared to have a successful academic year? Better yet, are you prepared to support their transition back to school? No worries because Edutopia has provided plenty of resources on how parents can help their children physically and mentally get back in the swing of things. That includes: tips on developing positive morning
- [Upcoming September Trainings](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/09/01/upcoming-double-deep-dive-sessions-copy/) - Its a new start to the school year! Are you looking for something new or old favorites? We have it for you! Deep Dive Sessions - Games for Better Behavior! Date: September 14, 2016 Time: 9:00 - 12:00 pm Location: CASN Office, Building 1, Hartford 10 Games That Will Make Your Kids Behave Better When
- [Human Body Learning Activities for Kids](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/09/02/human-body-learning-activities-for-kids/) - Human Body Learning Activities for Kids Here is a list of 10 fun STEM learning activities from "A Spectacled Owl". From brain hats to shrinky dink cell models, it's a great collection of activities to teach kids all about the human body. 1.What’s Inside a Drop of Blood (Creekside Learning) 2. X-Ray Play Dough (I
- [To Go Boldly Where No One Has Gone Before](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/09/08/to-go-boldly-where-no-one-has-gone-before/) - Captain's Log -- Stardate: September 8, 2016 Today marks the fiftieth anniversary of the premier of the original "Star Trek" television series. This long lasting sci-fi franchise is responsible for spurring the imagination of millions of people, myself among them. As a child I could imagine nothing better than racing past the stars at warp speed.
- [Kids Who Attend More Benefit More](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/09/15/kids-who-attend-more-benefit-more/) - The Wallace Foundation has posted a very important study on the effects of voluntary district run summer learning programs on low-income urban youth. The study incorporated five school districts—Boston; Dallas; Duval County, Florida; Pittsburgh; and Rochester, New York—and assessed their effects on more than 3,000 students. This long term study has followed a group of students
- [ICYMI: Your State's Schools Are In Trouble When A Judge Says ...](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/09/16/icymi-your-states-schools-are-in-trouble-when-a-judge-says/) - A Connecticut judge recently struck down the state's education aid choices as ‘irrational’ -- the state will appeal the case so the result is far from final. Want to know more? Check out the story on NPR: http://n.pr/2cvTHSE CT Mirror: http://ctmirror.org/2016/09/07/judge-strikes-down-state-education-aid-choices-as-irrational/ CT News Junkie: http://bit.ly/2cRTc3c You know you're in trouble when . . . but is it worse than
- [Be Part of this Important Meeting!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/09/20/be-part-of-this-important-meeting/) - Licensing Task Force Kick-Off Call Date: Thursday, October 13, 2016 Time: 1:00 PM Duration: 1 hour Meeting Description: By provider request, the Connecticut After School Network is re-convening its Licensing Task Force. We invite you to take part in the initial conference call on the school-age programs licensing process and applicable regulations. Join us October
- [Registration NOW Open for our 2016 Fall Conference!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/09/23/registration-now-open-for-our-2016-fall-conference/) - Are you a Brain Builder? If not, register today to BE A BRAIN BUILDER! Registration is now open. Join us for our Annual Fall Conference on Saturday, November 12, 2016 at the Radisson Cromwell for a full day of workshops ready to make you a brain builder. Schedule of Events 7:45 – 8:30 am Registration
- [Upcoming October Trainings](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/09/27/upcoming-october-trainings/) - What happened to September? As the Fall season starts kick it off with October's Training Opportunities. There is something for everyone! Supervisors Foundations: Supervisor 101 Date: October 5th, November 1st, December 12th & January 5th (4 Part Series) Time: 8:30 - 12:30 pm Location: CASN Office, Building 1, Hartford Leadership in after school programs is
- [ICYMI: For Kids, Anxiety About School Can Feel Like 'Being Chased By A Lion'](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/09/28/icymi-for-kids-anxiety-about-school-can-feel-like-being-chased-by-a-lion/) - Great radio story on what it's like for kids with anxiety. Do any of the children in your program struggle with issues like this? We'll be having a Deep Dive training from 9-12 on Friday, October 14 in our Hartford office if you want more strategies about how to help. More info will be available
- [Local Connecticut Program Highlighted in National Magazine](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/10/04/local-connecticut-program-highlighted-in-national-magazine/) - Local Connecticut Program Highlighted in National Magazine The other day I was meeting with the Connecticut After School Network Board Chair Vince LaFontan in his office about a recent article that was published in the Child Care Exchange about his program. In the 20 years the program, Farmington EXCL, has been running, staff have pushed
- [Serious Consequences Ahead for Kids Unable to Read by 3rd Grade](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/10/19/serious-consequences-ahead-for-kids-unable-to-read-by-3rd-grade/) - When kids start school they are learning to read between Pre-K and 3rd grade. After this point, children must read to learn. According to the Campaign for Grade Level Reading, "Reading proficiency by third grade is the most important predictor of high school graduation and career success. Yet every year, more than 80 percent of
- [Let's Keep the Lights On Afterschool in 2016](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/10/20/lets-keep-the-lights-on-afterschool-in-2016/) - Today, more than 8,000 program sites across the country will celebrate the 17th annual Lights On Afterschool! We hope you'll join folks in Connecticut and around the country to mark the occasion—it's easy to take part, no matter where you call home. Here's how you can join in: Sign the petition to show your support for afterschool, and to
- [CARE4KIDS IN CRISIS AGAIN](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/11/09/care4kids-in-crisis-again/) - An important alert from our colleagues at the Connecticut Early Childhood Alliance (CECA) -- please join with us in supporting this essential program! PROTECT CONNECTICUT’S CHILD CARE 1. November 16, 10:30 a.m., CECA ADVOCACY COMMITTEE meeting followed by meetings with legislators 2. November 29, 3 - 4 p.m., RALLY at the Capitol, 300 Capitol Ave.
- [Ode to the Site Coordinator](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/11/18/ode-to-the-site-coordinator/) - Overseeing an afterschool program is no easy task. In an average week we develop partnerships, talk with parents and caregivers, help with homework, and help support the academic and social growth of the children we serve. Our work often goes unnoticed, until now. Diego Arancibia at ASAPconnect in San Jose, CA created this brief You
- [Upcoming December Trainings](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/11/21/upcoming-december-trainings/) - We are running full speed ahead...these are our December offerings. Do not miss out! First Fridays - Getting Ready For Winter Date: December 2, 2016 Time: 10:00 - 12:00 pm Location: CASN Office, Building 1, Hartford Winter can be a real challenge, especially when cold and inclement weather limit your outdoor play time. By the
- [Help Keep Care4Kids Open](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/11/23/help-keep-care4kids-open/) - Keeping Care4Kids open for families is a top priority. Thank you to all of you who are helping in this effort by testifying before the Appropriations Committee, signing the petition, calling your elected representatives, sharing information by email and social media. Your voice is being heard. Last week, the state legislature's Appropriations Committee held a hearing that
- [Webinar SEL Learning](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/12/07/webinar-sel-learning/) - Please Join Us for a Webinar on Key Findings From Market Research on Social and Emotional Learning The Wallace Foundation invites you to join us on Monday, Dec. 12 (12:30 - 1:45 p.m.) for a webinar presentation from EDGE Research that offers insights into how educators, out-of-school-time leaders, and parents think about social and emotional learning.
- [Supervising 101 Rescheduled for 12/21/16 (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM)](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/12/12/supervising-101-cancelled-for-121216/) - Due to the inclement weather yesterday, we had to cancel the Supervising 101 course scheduled for 12/12/16. The reschedule date will be December 21st from 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM. We apologize for the inconvenience and look forward to seeing you next week. We will also be reopening registration at https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/professional-development-training/. Thank you for choosing
- [Upcoming January Trainings](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/12/15/upcoming-january-trainings/) - We hope you have enjoyed all our training offering in 2016. We are ready to kick off our training once again in 2017. Here is what we have coming in January. Supervisors Foundations: Supervisor 101 Date: January 5, 2017 Time: 8:30 - 12:30 pm Location: CASN Office, Building 1, Hartford Skill Building for Your Staff Staff development
- [CT Research Highlighted in Fall 2016 Afterschool Matters Journal](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/12/16/ct-research-highlighted-in-fall-2016-afterschool-matters-journal/) - For over a decade, afterschool programs have been positioning themselves as viable partners in student learning. After all, afterschool programs challenge students' thinking, teach collaboration, and help children and youth find their passion. In the latest issue of the field journal Afterschool Matters, Director of Professional Development and Research at the Connecticut After School Network,
- [New to the Game](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/12/19/new-to-the-game/) - Tips to Build Rapport with Students for New After-School Educators Are you a new after-school educator? If so, you might feel like an outsider. You might witness sincere interactions between staff and students while wondering how to foster those types of relationships yourself. Being your natural self is one of the best ways to interact
- [SAVE THE DATE: Upcoming Confidential Licensing Listening Sessions](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/12/20/save-the-date-upcoming-confidential-licensing-listening-sessions/) - The Connecticut After School Network will be hosting confidential listening sessions throughout January 2017. All licensed and exempt after school program providers are encouraged to come and share their thoughts, experiences, and ideas regarding current Office of Early Childhood (OEC) licensing regulations and practices. Responses and attendee list will be kept confidential. Please RSVP to
- [Sweat the Small Stuff](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2017/01/02/sweat-the-small-stuff/) - Little Details Matter At the age of 15, I started working as a camp counselor at a local community center in Bridgeport, CT. I was a drill sergeant back then. My girls stood in a straight line like soldiers and followed my lead, although other counselors struggled to maintain control over their campers. Having an
- [The "Talk"](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2017/01/09/the-talk/) - The Talk: Insights for giving constructive feedback “Do you let your staff dress like that?” an angry parent remarked. You recently met with a concerned parent regarding an inappropriately dressed counselor working a recent “Family Night” event. After the conversation, you scratched your head wondering how to share the feedback. When we are in this
- [New Middle School OST Grants - Up to $100k](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2017/01/12/new-middle-school-ost-grants-up-to-100k/) - Thinking about how to support middle school OST? The New York Life Foundation has opened a new Aim High grant opportunity focused on middle school. Aim High will provide $1.95M over three years to middle school afterschool, summer or expanded learning programs serving disadvantaged youth. A total of 18 grant awards will be made nationwide—take
- [Upcoming February Trainings](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2017/01/23/upcoming-february-trainings/) - Here is a full listing of what is happening in February. First Fridays - Tough Conversations: Working through Challenges with Parents and Peers Date: February 3, 2017 Time: 10:00 - 12:00 pm Location: CASN Office, Building 1, Hartford Sometimes, adults can be an even bigger challenge than the kids we work with. In this interactive
- [After School Grants](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2017/01/30/after-school-grants/) - After-School and Out-of-School Program Grants Deadline: February 8, 2017 The President's Committee on the Arts and the Humanities is offering awards and grants for after-school and out-of-school programs that "are transforming the lives of young people." Programs that engage young people in out-of-class time in the arts and humanities are eligible. In particular, programs should
- [Talking Viruses?](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2017/02/03/talking-viruses/) - We "transmit" information in a variety of ways. Generally we communicate acoustically; meaning we "talk". But did you know that communication is also by olfactory (smell), signaling (dog wagging tail), touching, and chemical (ants secreting acid). In the transmission of information you have a sender (or source), a message, a channel, and a receiver (destination).
- [State After School Funding AT RISK](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2017/02/08/state-after-school-funding-at-risk-copy/) - Earlier today Governor Malloy released his proposed budget adjustments for the next two years starting July 1. The state is facing a huge budget deficit of $3.6 billion in the next two years, and the Governor's proposal includes many proposals to begin to address these problems. What does this mean for after school funding? The Governor's
- [Upcoming March Trainings](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2017/02/13/upcoming-march-trainings/) - As we continue to battle the winter blues stay busy with these great upcoming workshops in March. Directors and Supervisors Training Event Date: March 14, 2017 Time: 8:30 - 3:30 am Location: Great River Golf Club, Milford, CT As directors and supervisors you are called upon daily to solve problems and put out fires. Too
- [From My Classroom to Yours](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2017/02/14/from-my-classroom-to-yours/) - Being a director for a morning and aftercare program is no easy task. The children always have a ton of energy and it is the responsibility of you and your staff to keep them engaged in activities from the moment they arrive to your program to the moment they leave; sounds easy but it most
- [The Power Struggle](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2017/02/19/the-power-struggle/) - Part 1: Awareness Does this sound familiar? Educator: "You are always interrupting my program by making by silly fart noises. Cut it out." Student: "You're always blaming me for stuff I didn't even do." Educator: "It is you. Stop or be kicked out." Student: "My mom said you shouldn't be yelling. You're not a teacher.
- [Art & Essay Contest](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2017/02/27/art-essay-contest/) - Connecticut After School Network Art & Essay Contest "After School Helps Me...." It's been a tough winter for a lot of us. We thought it would be fun to have our after school kids in Connecticut show us how after school helps them. A $25 prize will be awarded in each of 4 age groups
- [Top 4 Sites for Planning Physical Activities](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2017/03/01/top-4-sites-for-planning-physical-activities/) - When students are dismissed from school and arrive to your program what is the first thing you notice? Give up? The amount of energy they have! The first category of resources I want to share is for physical activity. These students have been sitting at a desk for most of the day receiving a very
- [Extreme Experiments](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2017/03/08/extreme-experiments/) - My students are always excited to do science experiments, especially because they don’t have the chance to do experiments during the school day. We will often use this book called Candy Experiments when doing a science activity with the students. The experiments are well explained with step by step directions. Each one will also tell
- [The Power Struggle (part 2)](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2017/03/12/the-power-struggle-part-2/) - In Part One of The Power Struggle, I focused on tips to empower educators in building their self-awareness during or before a potential power struggle. In Part Two, I will briefly review the functions of behaviors and how students use them to satisfy their personal needs. We often fall into behavior traps because we are
- [Making Math Fun](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2017/03/15/making-math-fun/) - My students love math if you could believe it or not. During homework time many will ask for me to create practice problems for them to solve. I started to run out of ideas off the top of my head and started to search the internet for helpful resources. I found a couple of websites
- [NASA Inspired Activities for Free](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2017/03/17/nasa-inspired-activities-for-free/) - Are you looking for new, engaging activities that spur young people’s imagination and creativity? The Boston Children’s Museum has just completed a new set of NASA-inspired challenges, accessible from the museum's updated Beyond the Chalkboard website! We need your help! If you would be willing to try out 5 of these NASA-inspired activities with your
- [Upcoming April Trainings](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2017/03/20/upcoming-april-trainings/) - It's the first day of Spring, let's hope warmer weather comes our way! Here is what is new in April. join us for some exciting training topics. First Friday - Creating Theater Magic in Your Program Date: April 7, 2017 Time: 10:00 am - 12:00 pm Location: Hartford Office Performing arts can be found in
- [The Wonderful World of Themes](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2017/03/29/the-wonderful-world-of-themes/) - For any program to run like a well oiled machine organization is a must! When I first started off in my position I was no where near as organized as I am now. Looking back, I do not know how I survived all those years without using my current system. My program is designed with
- [Top Sensory Table Ideas](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2017/04/19/top-sensory-table-ideas/) - I love incorporating sensory bins in my program every chance I get. Studies about sensory tables will show that they are not only beneficial to children with special needs but for all children. My students go crazy when we have sensory activity set up for them and I love to see how amazed and engaged
- [An urgent message from the CT Suicide Advisory Board (CTSAB)](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2017/04/21/an-urgent-message-from-the-ct-suicide-advisory-board-ctsab/) - The Netflix original series "13 Reasons Why", based on a popular novel of the same name, was released on March 31 and has been much talked about, particularly among school-aged youth. The fictional story is a cautionary tale of a young girl's suicide, and covers other sensitive subject matters as the series progresses such as
- [Upcoming May Trainings](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2017/04/24/upcoming-may-trainings/) - We have some great workshops lined up in May, so you can finish the school year strong. Get a jump start on your Summer Program with our June topics. First Friday - Making Memories: End-of-Year Celebrations that Matter Date: May 5, 2017 Time: 10:00 am - 12:00 pm Location: Hartford Office What is the perfect
- [Federal Funding Update](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2017/05/01/federal-funding-update/) - From the Afterschool Alliance: Late last night, after a weekend of negotiations, the House released a $1.070 trillion omnibus spending bill, which will fund the government through September 30, 2017. Votes on the bill are expected this week in order to avoid a government shutdown when the continuing resolution expires at the end of the day on Friday, May 5. The
- [State Funding Update](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2017/05/01/state-funding-update/) - Update on Funding for State After School Grants: The Governor and the State Legislature continue to negotiate on the final state budget for the fiscal year starting July 1, 2017. While the legislature is not considering the original proposal to block grant the funds by combining it with five other programs, the afterschool line item
- [Upcoming June Trainings](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2017/05/15/upcoming-june-trainings/) - We are coming full force towards the end of the school year, finish strong and get started on your Summer training! First Friday - Teaming Up with Parents & Caregivers Date: June 2, 2017 Time: 10:00 am - 12:00 pm Location: Hartford Office Engaging families in your program starts with finding lots of ways to
- [A New Understanding of the Childhood Brain](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2017/05/19/a-new-understanding-of-the-childhood-brain/) - This is a short video produced by the Atlantic magazine that talks about new research that has been going on over the past 10 years on the link of early childhood trauma and ongoing adult mental health issues. Earlier discoveries have lead the way to earlier social interventions in healthcare, early education, and family intervention.
- [History of Summer Vacation from School](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2017/06/14/history-of-summer-vacation-from-school/) - If I asked you how summer vacation came about, would you be able to answer? Most people believe that it was an issue of families needing their children to work on the farm. This is a misconception. Read on for a brief history. During the early 1800's, farmers needed their children predominantly during the fall
- [Are your pool's lifeguards up to the job?](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2017/06/14/are-your-pools-lifeguards-up-to-the-job-copy/) - Do you take your kids to the water in the summer? Eight ways to know if your lifeguards are up to the job—and are being given the support they need. Here’s the full article from Slate.com: http://slate.me/1KZ8xfI The two minutes you spend reading this could save a life! Also, check out "Drowning Doesn't Look Like
- [Educator Opportunity: Practitioner Focus Group](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2021/06/28/ost-educator-summer-opportunity/) - Out-of-School Time Educator Summer Opportunity announcement from The Center for Science Teaching and Learning at Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, Arizona PLANETS (Planetary Learning that Advances the Nexus of Engineering, Technology, and Science) is a NASA funded Out-of-School program that provides free Science and Engineering curriculum and educator support resources for Out-of-School Time educators. This
- [Invitation from the CT State Board of Education](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2021/07/14/invitation-from-the-ct-state-board-of-education/) - The Connecticut State Board of Education is seeking input from its educational stakeholders to inform the development of the Board’s strategic plan. The Board has already begun work on the plan, revisiting the work of the past plan and holding a retreat to begin exploring priorities for the future. Between now and July 19th, we
- [SDE RFP is now Posted!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2017/06/26/sde-rfp-is-now-posted/) - The 2017 State Department of Education After-School Grant Program for Grades K-12 Purpose: To implement or expand high-quality programs outside school hours that offer students academic/educational enrichment and recreational activities in grades K-12 that are designed to reinforce and complement the regular academic program of participating students. The Request for Proposal has now been posted
- [Call For Presenters!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2017/07/05/call-for-presenters-2/) - We are currently accepting Request for Presenter forms for the Connecticut After School Network's 2017 Fall Conference at the Radisson Hotel in Cromwell on Saturday, November 4, 2017. Click here to open the the RFP form which contains detailed information regarding the conference. Please share this RFP with any colleagues who may be interested in presenting.
- [What College Campuses can do for After-School Programs](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2017/07/12/what-college-campuses-can-do-for-after-school-programs/) - Victoria Bosman, AmeriCorps VISTA at Dwight Hall at Yale Mark Fopeano, Program Manager at Dwight Hall at Yale Our 8th grade students in the Jones-Zimmermann Academic Mentoring Program (J-Z AMP) just wrapped up their last year with their Yale student mentors that they’ve been with for three years! Twelve years and four cohorts later, we’ve
- [School-Age QRIS Pilot Programs Needed](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2017/07/25/school-age-qris-pilot-programs-needed/) - After School Programs Needed to Test QRIS Process This Year Calling all programs that serve elementary and/or middle school youth! We need your help to participate in a pilot program of the OEC's QRIS system. School-age programs are different than programs serving younger children in many important ways, and this pilot test is a crucial
- [21st CCLC Bidders Conference](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2017/08/05/21st-cclc-bidders-conference/) - A 21st Century Community Learning Center (21stCCLC) Bidders Conference will be held on Tuesday, August 29th from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. at CREC Central Office (111 Charter Oak Avenue, Hartford). The 21stCCLC Request for Proposals is expected to be posted to the CT State Department of Education website on August 21st. Proposals must be submitted by September 22nd. Eligible applicants must serve schools
- [Congratulations!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2017/08/15/congratulations/) - The Connecticut After School Network wants to congratulate Mallory Deprey from the New Britain YWCA who was chosen in this year’s class of White Riley Peterson Fellows. She, along with our own Dr. Ken Anthony are the only Connecticut Fellows. Why is this important? The Charles Stewart Mott Foundation is a great supporter of after
- [Being Trauma Informed](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2017/08/31/being-trauma-informed/) - Remember when people asked children, “what’s wrong with you”? We still do this. Rather we should be asking, “what happened to you”. Childhood trauma is more common than we care to say. There are many different statistics but all support that trauma is highly prevalent in adults and children. You, as providers and staff see
- [Interns Needed](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2017/09/01/interns-needed/) - The Connecticut After School Network is looking for full or part-time interns/volunteers to help us with various projects. These positions do not include a stipend. The intern will provide assistance and support for the communications, events planning, and everyday operations of the Network. Position Description - The Connecticut After School Network has an opportunity for
- [Grant Readers Needed!!!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2017/09/05/grant-readers-needed-copy/) - ​One-day Volunteer Opportunity, with a Hawaiian theme! NEW DATES ADDED! The Connecticut State Department of Education is currently looking for a few good grant readers to help them evaluate grant proposals for after school programs. This is an unpaid, one or two-day (your choice!) volunteer commitment on either (or both): Friday, September 8, 2017 and/or Thursday, September 21, 2017 Both
- [After School Survey](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2017/09/12/after-school-survey/) - We need your help! The following survey will only take a few seconds...we promise! Our survey consists of only 5 questions and will be used later on during conference. Share the link with colleagues, the first 100 responses will be used. Click here to access survey.
- [State Budget Win!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2017/10/26/state-budget-win/) - After 117 days without a state budget, the Connecticut General Assembly has passed a veto-proof, bipartisan budget and sent it to Governor Malloy. The state-funded afterschool line is in there for $4.7 million, only a small cut from last year. (Here's the actual bill that passed.) As with any budget there are winners and losers, and
- [Volunteers Needed - Conference Committee](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2017/11/27/volunteers-needed-conference-committee/) - Conference Committee The Connecticut After School Network is in the process of developing a Supervisors Mini-Conference and we need your help. We are looking for volunteers that would like to help develop, organize, and run this annual event. We are hoping to hold the session in early Spring. We plan to meet twice in person
- [Happy Holidays!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2017/12/15/happy-holidays/) - With the coming Holidays, I thought we would share just who celebrates the holidays during the month of December. Here is a calendar and a brief explanation of 14 different faiths who share their own take on the December Holiday Season. You can find a year long calendar here. Nov. 28: Advent Fast begins —
- [Annual Art Contest](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2017/12/19/annual-art-contest/) - The Connecticut After School Network's Annual Art Contest "After School Builds Bright Tomorrows...." This year we are doing a MURAL! Get your after school kids together and create a program mural; it can be by age group or whole program group. Help your children brainstorm about how after school builds bright tomorrows. The top 25
- [Summer Survey Incentive...](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2017/12/19/summer-survey-incentive/) - Summer Stats Survey! Some of you know that we are trying to gather data to find out the "state" of summer access in Connecticut, but we are having a hard time getting the info. We decided to add an incentive! The providers who answer our survey (including those who have already responded...THANKS!) will be entered
- [Connecticut Needs Summer Learning Programs](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2018/02/12/connecticut-needs-summer-learning-programs/) - UPDATE 2/22/18. The Education Committee will hold a public hearing on Monday, February 26, 2018 at 11:00 A.M. in Room 1E of the LOB. For more detailed information click here. UPDATE 2/21/18. The Education Committee has raised the summer learning grant bill that we support. Raised House Bill 5168. A public hearing will be scheduled soon. The Connecticut After
- [Teacher Trauma](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2018/02/22/teacher-trauma/) - I just read an article posted by Ken Anthony on Facebook, called "When Students are Traumatized, Teachers are too". It's something we don't think about much, even with my family of teachers. We talk about burnout but never about the teacher's physical and mental response to the trauma inflicted by students and on students. My
- [Why Summer Matters to Me](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2018/03/23/why-summer-matters-to-me/) - With spring just around the corner, I cannot help but think forward to the summer. The summer often gets glorified for students as a time full of fun in the sun. However, the summer is not a fun vacation for everyone. A lot of students are left at home to keep an eye on the
- [Announcing the 2018 Art Contest Winners](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2018/03/29/announcing-the-2018-art-contest-winners/) - The first ever mural contest for after school programs was held earlier this year and we are pleased to announce the following winners: K - 2nd: Tender Care Learning Center, Avon "Reach for the Stars" 3rd - 5th: Co-Winners Every Kid Counts After School Program, New Britain "After School Makes You Grow" Manchester Early Learning
- [Inquiring Minds](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2018/05/04/inquiring-minds/) - In honor of Science Friday I thought I would share with you some pictures that I received through email. The pictures honor the diversity of nature and man. Some things that we will never see or even never thought about. Check out the blowhole of the Blue whale picture and tell me what you see.
- [Your input needed on OEC Regs and Plans](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2018/05/15/your-input-needed-on-oec-regs-and-plans/) - The Office for Early Childhood which oversees child care centers including after school programs has two different, but both vitally important, opportunities for you to provide feedback: Draft Licensing Regulations: Some big changes on these including to head teacher certification https://surveyentrance.com/run/oc/p2203g/start Child Care Development Fund Plan 2019-2021: Concerns Care4Kids and also state investment in quality
- [Teen Toddlers](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2018/05/22/teen-toddlers/) - If you are an 80’s baby, you probably played with a toy kitchen set. I did. When I was four years old, Santa brought me a kitchen set for Christmas. With a big grin on my face, I served my family plastic chicken drumsticks and fake pieces of yellow corn on the cob. My mom
- [Social and Emotional Learning / After School & Summer Working Group](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2018/05/23/social-and-emotional-learning-after-school-summer-working-group/) - New Working Group Forming First meeting June 8th Interested in how afterschool and summer programs can better help kids and families in terms of social and emotional learning and behavioral health? The Connecticut After School Network is forming a new working group to help us implement a new grant to expand our trainings and resources
- [Help Us Grow!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2018/05/23/help-us-grow/) - Call for Contractors and Volunteers The Connecticut After School Network is taking a deeper dive into content areas in the coming year. In an effort to offer relevant and timely information to the out-of-school time field, we are seeking individuals to help us achieve this goal. The areas we are looking to expand include: ●
- [Call for Presenters](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2018/05/30/call-for-presenters-3/) - We are currently accepting Request for Presenter applications for the Connecticut After School Network's 2018 Annual Fall Conference. Location: Radisson Hotel, Cromwell, CT Date: Saturday, November 3, 2018 Click here to for the RFP form which contains detailed information regarding the conference. Please share this RFP with any colleague who may be interested in presenting. Please
- [STEM Mini Grants Fall 2018](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2018/06/14/stem-mini-grants-fall-2018/) - The Connecticut After School Network, in collaboration with the NASA Connecticut Space Grant Consortium is offering mini-grants of $1000 each to fund five after school programs across Connecticut in an effort to expand STEM learning in an experiential way. Possible programming must be a minimum of two days per week over at least 12 weeks
- [Building Positive Staff Culture](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2018/07/06/building-positive-staff-culture/) - I came across an article at Edutopia.com on building a positive staff culture. I thought back over my work lifetime and realized, as many people do, that there were some great teams I worked with but far more bad ones than good ones. I know I am not alone. Here at the Network we have
- [Congratulations to the 5 STEM Mini Grant Recipients!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2018/08/09/congratulations-to-the-5-stem-mini-grant-recipients/) - Twenty groups signed up for the CT NASA Space Grants Consortium/CT After School Network STEM mini-grants. We were so impressed! It was a slow start but we had a great turnout and hope to offer this again in the future. You are encouraged to send us information and suggestions in an effort to build an
- [SEL Series: Too Many Choices: Selecting the Right SEL Curriculum](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2018/09/05/too-many-choices-selecting-the-right-sel-curriculum/) - After-school educators are becoming increasingly aware of the impact and the long-lasting benefits of Social-Emotional Learning programs. However, choosing the right SEL program can be a challenge due to the overwhelming selection of materials and online resources. We can easily be allured by large promises and marketing jargon which can make the hunt for the
- [SEL Series: Check out Centervention for free social-emotional learning activities](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2018/09/12/check-out-centervention-for-free-social-emotional-learning-activities/) - I will be writing a series of blog posts highlighting the Best Social Emotional Learning (SEL) resources. I would like to begin with one of my favorite free Social Emotional Learning online resources, Centervention. I have used several of their materials for workshops and training. In particular, I’ve used their activity on compromising, and it
- [SEL Series:A Pooch at your After-school](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2018/09/19/a-pooch-at-your-after-school/) - Let's take a look at the Mutt-I-Grees SEL curriculum I recall sitting in a meeting with one of our education coordinators, and he pitched the idea of dogs coming to 20 West, our middle and high school learning center. At first, I thought what? Dogs!?! I hesitated because I know most kids love dogs, but
- [Imagination](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2018/09/24/imagination/) - My 4 year old grandson thinks I am his personal play thing. At times it would be nice if he were to use his imagination and play on his own. I talk to him about this, about using his “imagination”; pretty hard word to pronounce for a 4 year old. I explained how you can
- [WANTED: Female Mentors Needed for AS Program](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2018/09/26/wanted-female-mentors-needed-for-as-program/) - Sisters in Science What is Sisters in Science? An afterschool program of the New Britain Youth Museum designed to foster interest in STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) education & careers. Our goal is to eliminate the social, economic and cultural barriers that stand in the way of young female minds in their pursuit of STEM.
- [2019 CC TWW Request for Proposals](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2018/09/27/2019-cc-tww-request-for-proposals/) - REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS Proposals deadline November 2, 2018 March 29th & 30th, 2019 Hartford-Windsor Marriott CT Office of Early Childhood, The Alliance for Bloomfield’s Children, CT After School Network, CT Early Childhood Alliance, CT Family Resource Center Alliance, CT Parents as Teachers, CT Head Start Collaborative, The Village for Families and Children, University of Hartford,
- [Earn money for your program](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2018/10/03/earn-money-for-your-program/) - Earn $$$ for your After School Program through this Research Opportunity Your help is needed to recruit 4th and 5th grade youth and their parents from African American and Hispanic communities to complete a 15 minute survey about science experiences and career interests. Organizations will earn $100 for recruiting 25 youth and a parent/guardian
- [19th Annual Lights On After School](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2018/10/04/19th-annual-lights-on-after-school/) - Celebrate the 19th annual Lights On Afterschool Oct. 25, 2018! Launched in October 2000, Lights On Afterschool is the only nationwide event celebrating afterschool programs and their important role in the lives of children, families and communities. The effort has become a hallmark of the afterschool movement and generates media coverage across the country each year. The Afterschool Alliance
- [SEL Series: Character First](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2018/10/04/sel-series-character-first/) - A couple of weeks ago, I watched former Vice President Joe Biden, deliver an emotional and inspiring eulogy for Senator John McCain, who died of brain cancer at 81. Biden eloquently said, “John understood what mattered in life; trust and character.” This part of the speech resonated with my personal passion for character development. I
- [SEL Series: Snack Attack - Never Give Up!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2018/10/10/sel-series-snack-attack-never-give-up/) - Simple mini SEL lessons to make afterschool snack time fun During snack time, or whenever you need a short activity, have student watch the short animated film, “Soar,” set to Sia’s song “Never Give Up”  With each new experience, growing young minds are always discovering and learning how to find their place in this
- [Educators Appreciation Day](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2018/10/11/educators-appreciation-day/) - SAVE THE DATE! Educators Appreciation Day at Mystic Seaport Museum Saturday, October 20, 2018 (rain or shine) Join us for Educators Appreciation Day at Mystic Seaport Museum on October 20th. All teachers, administrators, homeschoolers, paraprofessionals, afterschool professionals, and their families (up to four people total with teacher ID) will receive free Mystic Seaport Museum admission.
- [Free Learning Resources](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2018/10/12/free-learning-resources/) - NEW (FREE!) LEARNING RESOURCES FROM NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC & MOTT FOUNDATION Real-world problems call for critical thinking and real-world solutions and afterschool programs are a great place for kids to learn, collaborate, and figure out how to make their communities better. The Mott Foundation and National Geographic want to help afterschool programs open the world to
- [Mastering the "Super CLASP"](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2018/10/16/mastering-the-super-clasp/) - If there is anything I’ve learned at the Network it has been the deeper meaning to most of the things we do here. Ken created a new version of CLASP he calls “SUPER CLASP” (really known as “Moving toward Mastery”). He’s a funny guy and pretty darned smart….but humble. I’ve been trying to figure out
- [Why does the School Day End Two Hours Before the Work Day?](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2018/10/17/why-does-the-school-day-end-two-hours-before-the-work-day/) - Parents Line up for South Windsor Before and After School Program. We all saw this headline in Connecticut last spring. Parents lining up from the wee hours in the morning to get their child into one of the few after school programs in the town. Most of them wasted their time and ended up on
- [SEL Series: SEL at Home](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2018/10/17/sel-series-sel-at-home/) - Have you ever heard something that shifted your perspective? While away at an afterschool conference, I acquired one of the most valuable pieces of wisdom on parenting that continues to guide me now. When I attended the workshop at the conference, I was a young single parent raising a seven-year-old daughter. I worked from 8:30 a.m.
- [#GeoChallenge](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2018/10/30/geochallenge/) - What Will You Do to Save the Planet? Take the #GeoChallenge! Did you know that 500 million plastic straws are used every day? Eight million tons of plastic flow into the ocean every year? We need creative and actionable ideas from young people to literally save the planet. Afterschool programs are invited to take
- [SEL Series: SEL Snack Attack- Kid President’s 25 Reasons to Be Thankful!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2018/11/14/sel-series-sel-snack-attack-kid-presidents-25-reasons-to-be-thankful/) - Simple mini SEL lessons to make afterschool snack time fun Teaching children gratitude can be trick thing. Even adults have a rough time remembering to be grateful. We get caught up in our daily lives and forget to be thankful for what we have. Watch- Kid President’s 25 Reasons to Be Thankful! It is a
- [SEL Series: Girls and Boys Brains Learn Differently](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2018/11/19/sel-series-girls-and-boys-brains-learn-differently/) - In Arizona this past weekend, I presented at workshops in a conference called "Excellence, 2018 School’s Out, Make It Count". Along with presenting, I attended an excellent workshop called " Boys and Girls Learn Differently." The seminar centered on brain-based educational research and techniques that can be used in classrooms that help children learn better.
- [SEL Series: SEL Assessment Tools - The DESSA](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2018/11/28/sel-series-sel-assessment-tools-the-dessa/) - When finding the right assessment tool to measure students' social and emotional learning skills after school, professionals will run into a few challenges. Adhering to SEL standards will ensure accountability and assist with helping educators plan, assess and support student learning. However, with so many assessment tools to pick from educators are left scratching our
- [SEL Series: Get Started with SEL](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2018/12/05/sel-series-get-started-with-sel/) - Get Started with SEL: #SELFORCT, #CTAfterschoolNetwork #We love SEL You need resources, well here you go? I created this list to help educators GET STARTED WITH SEL. These resources are easy to integrate into your busy after school schedules. In addition to getting started, we want to see SEL in ACTION! Post pictures, including short
- [Grant Opportunity](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2018/12/06/grant-opportunity/) - The New York Life Foundation is seeking applicants for its Aim High local grant program to support afterschool, summer, or expanded learning programs serving middle schoolers. A total of 26 grant awards will be made nationwide. Take a look to see which grant category is a good fit for you, and apply! Three grant categories: ● $100,000 over
- [SEL Series: Creating a Culture of Empathy](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2018/12/13/sel-series-creating-a-culture-of-empathy/) - What is Empathy?  Empathy is the ability to understand another person’s feelings, thoughts, and point of view. One day, I was asked to observe a first-grade teacher. She was taking off for a couple of days, and I was asked to cover her class in her absence. She greeted her students with much
- [SEL Series: Mini SEL Lesson](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2018/12/19/sel-series-mini-sel-lesson/) - Healthy Relationships take time and effort to mature. It is important to teach youth the key elements of creating positive relationships with friends, family members and people they may encounter throughout their life. Respect, Trust, Honesty and Communication are required when developing good relationships. What makes a healthy relationship?  Group discussion: As a group
- [Women as Mentors?](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/01/10/women-as-mentors/) - Here at the Network, 5 out of 6 staff are female. Well, there are only 6 of us really. Ken Anthony is awash in females. I don't think he sees it that way though. Michelle has mentored Ken since he arrived. Here we work as a team trying new ideas or revising old ones. So
- [SEL Series: Growth Mindset](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/01/16/sel-series-mini-sel-lesson-copy/) - Fostering a Growth Mindset I remember extending my right hand up in the air and waving it feverishly. I thought, today “I had enough” after being ignored by my fourth-grade teacher too many times, today was the day I was going to speak up. Daily, I eagerly raised my hand to answer a question only
- [Video Games Aren't All Bad](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/01/18/video-games-arent-all-bad/) - We all understand that video games can cause problems, we hear that every day. I won't even go into the many ways that some of these games can create antisocial and apathetic behaviors. I want to talk about the video games that teach empathy, better human connection and understanding. Like a good storyteller, a video
- [SEL Series: Sorry](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/01/23/sorry/) - Apologies When you ask a young person to apologize, they often scowl at you with an attitude. They may glare at you and roughly say,” Why should I apologize, I didn’t do anything wrong". We all know that owning our mistakes is not only a challenge for children but for adults as well. Apprehension to
- [Join The Network Team-Three New Job Postings](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/01/23/join-the-network-team-three-new-job-postings/) - The Connecticut After School Network is hiring! We have three open positions: >> Professional Development Specialist (Part-Time, 15 hours per week) >> Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Coordinator (Part-Time with benefits, 30 hours per week) >> Early Childhood Network Specialist (Full-Time) Applications consisting of a current resume and letter of interest should be sent via email
- [Advocacy After School Task Force](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/01/25/advocacy-after-school-task-force/) - Want to ensure that afterschool programs are funded? Want to expand funding for summer programs? Have ideas about state laws that impact afterschool and summer programs for kids? Join the Connecticut After School Network for its first Advocacy Task Force conference call of 2019. Learn about what we have planned for the upcoming state legislative
- [SEL Series: Words are Powerful](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/01/31/words-are-powerful/) - Your words are powerful use them wisely- Over the Christmas holiday, I received a lesson in how much words can hurt. My dear old granny had some not-so-nice-comments about my weight. Yep, her words felt like a surprise punch to the gut. It may be silly, but her words cut me like me a knife.
- [SEL Series: SEL at Home, Tips for Parents](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/02/06/tips-for-parents/) - 5 Awesome tips that will improve trips to the grocery store with your children Many of us have dropped our jaws while witnessing distressed parents address their tearful kid(s) screaming their brains out in the grocery store. I never wanted to be that parent with “that kid.” To my surprise, my daughter taught me no
- [Summer Learning Experience RFP](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/02/06/summer-learning-experience-grant/) - Despite the weather outside, summer is just around the corner! The Coaltion for New Britain's Youth is happy to assist in the distribution of the 2019 New Britain Summer Learning Experiences request for proposals. This year's program will be from July 22nd through August 9th. FAQ's about the three Summer Learning Experiences: Summer Enrichment
- [SEL Series: 55 Positive Things to Say to your Children](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/02/13/positive-things-to-say-to-your-children/) - "Opportunities don't happen; you create them." --Chris Grosser Here are positive things to say to your children to create opportunities to help them feel confident and loved! As parents, most of us speak to our children, in the ways, our parents talked to us during childhood. Our parents did the best, but we can so
- [The Art of Storytelling](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/02/19/the-art-of-storytelling/) - Let me tell you a story. You have heard that, seen that, said that, now let me really tell you the story behind that! I am a storyteller, really! Storytelling can be an art, an avocation or a full time job. I’m not talking about the story of last weekend’s party or your bad date
- [SEL Series - What is SEL?](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/02/20/sel-series-what-is-sel/) - AHA! I recently had an aha moment - I have written several blogs about Social Emotional Learning (SEL), but I have not clearly defined what it is. So just what is social-emotional learning and why do we need it? In the next few blogs, I will provide you with a crash course of the five
- [Governor Releases 2 Year State Budget](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/02/20/governor-releases-2-year-state-budget/) - The Connecticut General Assembly kicked off its 2019 session on Wednesday, January 9, and will finish on June 5. Governor Lamont has released his proposed budget (Click here to see the entire proposal, and here for his budget address). For CSDE’s After School Grants, the line item is flat funded at $4,720,695 for each of
- [Creating Culture in a Cafeteria Classroom](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/02/26/creating-culture-in-a-cafeteria-classroom/) - The Allegory of the Oxygen Mask I have been flying on airplanes since I was a very young child. Spending my mid-80s childhood-summers in Kansas, I would often fly alone to and from the Midwest; armed with a chapter book, a stuffed animal, and a super-secret safety word to ward off questionable strangers. I witnessed
- [The 4 Burners Theory](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/03/01/the-4-burners-theory/) - I belong to a cloud app called "pocket". It allows me to download interesting articles to save and/or read later; it also suggests interesting reads on my google page. I was intrigued when I came across one article called "The Downlside of Work Life Balance". Hmmm, the work-life balance. We all struggle with that one.
- [Call for Presenters](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/03/05/call-for-presenters-4/) - We are seeking presenters who are able to present a workshop in one of three categories: STEAM in Program PracticesSTEAM in Program DesignSTEAM in Partnerships. Workshops should be appropriate for staff working with K - 8th grades. Each workshop will be presented in all three sessions; participants will rotate through the workshops. The tentative schedule
- [SEL Series - Responding to Students’ Behaviors](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/03/06/sel-series-responding-to-students-behaviors/) - Tips to Identify Behaviors and Linking them to Social and Emotional Needs I recently brought my daughter to the hospital and we encountered a doctor with the worst bedside manner. He spoke to us in a condescending tone; his responses were abrupt, coarse, rude, and uncompassionate. I hated everything about his interaction with my daughter.
- [Creating Culture in a Cafeteria Classroom](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/03/08/creating-culture-in-a-cafeteria-classroom-reel-life-lessons-2/) - “Reel” Life Lessons for OST Success When I was a little girl, my Poppa wanted to teach me the virtues inherent in fishing as a hobby; patience, perseverance, and pride. He took me out to the local lake as soon as he thought I was ready. I remember very specific parts of this day vividly.
- [SEL Series - Start Early](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/03/14/sel-series-start-early/) - The Power of Teaching Young Children Social Skills “Pink, Pink”, my niece excitedly repeated as she walked into the kitchen. I loved the way she attempted to say paint. She was only two years old, and she was quickly expanding her vocabulary every day. I grabbed the paint supplies and she got to work.
- [The Art of Storytelling - Part 2](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/03/18/the-art-of-storytelling-part-2/) - 5 Ways to Improve Your After School Storytelling Storytelling in the purest sense of the word is the tradition of oral narrative. It is timeless entertainment and education shared by the relating of a story. As after school educators you are front line to use storytelling simultaneously for both purposes. If you want to try
- [SEL Series - How to Motivate the Unmotivated](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/03/21/sel-series-how-to-motivate-the-unmotivated/) - Strategies for Motivating Students I remember facilitating "Girls Chat" every Wednesday when I managed a middle afterschool program. The girls seemed disinterested in participating at the start of the program. Their indifference frustrated me. I thought what am I doing wrong? I seemed to have tried everything: several pep- talks, lectures, demands, but trying to
- [SEL Series - Talk with Your Children](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/03/28/sel-series-talk-with-your-children/) - Prioritizing Meaningful Conversation with Your Children Too often parents and children stop communicating. In most cases, it happens subtly and unintentionally. Parents are continually trying to balance their personal, professional, and family lives. As a result, parents may tend to become distracted and can forget the importance of taking the time to check in, talk,
- [SEL Series - Self-Esteem vs Self-Awareness](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/04/05/sel-series-self-esteem-vs-self-awareness/) - Self-Esteem vs Self-Awareness I have learned that self-esteem can have several different meanings depending on who you converse with. When it comes to your self-esteem, only one opinion truly matters: your own. As educators, it is critical to understand the difference between self-esteem and self-awareness; they share many of the same elements. However, there are
- [SEL Series - Teen Life](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/04/11/sel-series-teen-life/) - Choices and More Choices Bootleg, skinny, straight leg jeans; there are so many options! Sheesh! Just choosing a pair of jeans can be overwhelming, however, I believe one of life’s greatest gifts lies in our ability to choose. Our ability to make choices is one which gives us significant power in our lives. However, knowing
- [SEL Series - Moody! Drink more Water](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/04/19/sel-series-copy-2/) - Health benefits of drinking of water Recently I started the Keto diet. One of the core components of the Keto diet is reducing the consumption of sugar. No more cans of Ginger Ale, now I’m drinking water strictly. Over the last few weeks, I noticed a few changes; physically I feel lighter, and emotionally I
- [Creating Culture in a Cafeteria Classroom - Chains](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/04/23/creating-culture-in-a-cafeteria-classroom-chains/) - A Chain is Only as Strong as Its Weakest Link For many years, my extended Connecticut family has shared in an October multi-generational tradition. We choose a weekend before Halloween to go pumpkin picking together. We take a hayride, select our squash, and head home for some communal carving. These Pumpkin Pickin’ Days hold my
- [SEL Series - Feeling Low](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/04/26/sel-series-copy-3/) - Tips for Boosting your Self-Esteem I remember hating Valentine’s Day when I was in high school. Yuck! All the cool girls would receive candy grams and carnations from their secret admirers. As much as I tried to play it off, I sulked all day. My mother tried her best every year to pick up my
- [SEL Series - Before You Lose Your Cool](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/05/01/sel-series-before-you-lose-your-cool/) - Classroom Management for Small Children I sat in the back of the classroom. I pulled out my pen and paper and began conducting an observation at one of our Learning Center sites. I can never forget my observation of this class, or really, I’ll never forget witnessing one teacher feeling completely overwhelmed by a robust
- [Congresswoman Visits After School in New Haven](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/05/07/congresswoman-visits-after-school-in-new-haven/) - This past Friday Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro stopped by the Martinez 21st Century Community Learning Center (21CCLC) in New Haven to do some gardening with the children. Students were making Mother’s Day flowerpots and planting seeds for gifts for the upcoming holiday. Though it was a cloudy day, the smiles on the children’s faces brought sunshine
- [SEL Series - Checking In!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/05/08/sel-series-checking-in/) - A great way to integrate SEL into your program can begin with a daily CHECK IN. Taking the time to connect with every student and to gauge their emotional state helps to set a positive tone for each student’s after school experience. A check in can be a brief group discussion in which you give
- [SEL Series: SEL Games](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/05/23/sel-series-sel-games/) - Five Awesome Social Emotional Games to Play at Summer Camp My favorite time of the year is approaching. SUMMER! With kids out of school, I reminisce back to the days when the world became my playground and I could play outside until the streetlights came on. I remember playing kickball or a game of chase,
- [SEL Series - The Golden Nugget](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/05/29/sel-series-the-golden-nugget/) - The Secret to PD- Finding the Golden Nugget during Professional Development Workshop I've come to realize that every professional development workshop I attend will not always end in fireworks, rather, many workshops have developed a standard practice when approaching personal development. As I listen to a presenter, I say to myself "find the golden nugget."
- [SEL Series - Impactful Staff Orientation](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/05/29/sel-series-impactful-staff-orientation/) - Why Creating Impactful Staff Orientation is the Best Way to Program Success The most essential professional orientation I have experienced in my career was at the Cardinal Sheehan Center in Bridgeport, CT. The orientation was focused on camp counselor training and consisted of intensive week-long training sessions that aimed to acquaint staff to the program
- [What Drowning Really Looks Like...](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/06/03/what-drowning-really-looks-like/) - The new captain jumped from the deck, fully dressed, and sprinted through the water. A former lifeguard, he kept his eyes on his victim as he headed straight for the couple swimming between their anchored sportfisher and the beach. “I think he thinks you’re drowning,” the husband said to his wife. They had been splashing
- [After School Budget Win!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/06/06/after-school-budget-win/) - State After School Grant increased by $1 million! The Connecticut General Assembly completed the 2019 legislative session at midnight last night and passed a budget bill that Governor Lamont is expected to sign. The line item for the State Department of Education's After School Grants was increased from $4,720,695 to $5,720,695 for the upcoming year.
- [SEL Series - Out Wit the Witty](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/06/07/sel-series-out-wit-the-witty/) - 18 Diffusers That “Out Wit” the Witty Think about your students who love to chronically interrupt classroom activities. Do find yourself thinking "can you please let me finish my sentence." Better yet, you gasp then, drop your head and say, "here we go again." How do you deal with students who create disturbance and
- [SEL Series - Real Talk on SEL](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/06/12/sel-series-real-talk-on-sel/) - Interview with Edward Franklin at the Boost Conference I peered out into a large crowd of people sitting at tables eating lunch. I walk around for a few minutes trying to find a place to sit. Randomly, I pulled out a chair at a table with a few people chatting and eating. Hungry and eager
- [Call For Presenters!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/06/18/2019-call-for-presenters/) - The Connecticut After School Network is seeking presenters for its 2019 Annual After School Conference on Saturday, November 2nd at the Hartford Marriott Downtown. This year’s theme is Everyday Heroes: Empower. Engage. Enrich. We will be focusing on how after school staff build opportunities for empowering, engaging, and enriching the lives of children every day
- [SEL4CT Upcoming Events](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/06/20/sel4ct-upcoming-events/) - We are gearing up for our summer and fall meetings & workshops. Listed below are a few upcoming opportunities for you to learn more and get involved this summer for yourself or to share with others you may know. We hope to see you at one or more of these events! Meeting: SEL4CT Communications Planning
- [SEL Series - Disagreements](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/07/01/sel-series-disagreements/) - Mediating Summer Camp Disagreements I remember standing between two school-age boys and blocking them from brutalizing each over a kickball game. The disagreement stemmed from a bad call on a play. I ran over once I saw one of the boys screaming and charging over to the other camper. At that moment, I realized that
- [SEL Series - Ends Justifying the Means???](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/07/11/sel-series-motivation/) - A Cautionary Tale for Parents: Sometimes the Ends Do Not Justify the Means I walked into my apartment after a long day at work. Again, I caught my daughter lounging on the couch in my living room. “Ugh,” I thought, “She still hasn't found the firestick for the television in her room.” I thought it
- [SEL Series - Part 1: What is Bullying?](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/07/16/sel-series-what-is-bullying-part1/) - What is Bullying? I believe that the word Bully evokes different emotions and attitudes in each person because of the extensive variations of its effects on children. After reading several varying definitions of “Bullying”, I have chosen the stopbullying.gov definition of Bullying because of its inclusive description of Bullying. “Bullying is unwanted, aggressive behavior among
- [SEL Series - Part 2: What is Bullying?](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/07/23/sel-series-bullying-part2/) - What is an Ally? An ally is someone who acts to support those who are bullied. Empowering children to be advocates will help the culture of your program and it will build awareness. By equipping young people with the skills and abilities to be honest and open about their lives, you will support all of
- [SEL Series - Resources!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/07/31/sel-series-resources/) - SEL Summer Program Resources I love a good find! I bet so do you. Recently I have found tons of excellent free SEL resources on Pinterest's website. These easy to implement activities will need minimal time to prep and complete. Also, they will be a great add on too many of your scheduled programs. In
- [2019-2020 Professional Development Catalog Now Available](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/08/01/2019-2020-professional-development-catalog-now-available/) - You asked for it and we delivered! The Network's 2019 - 2020 Professional Development Catalog is here. From Deep Dive Sessions, Fun Fridays and a new CLASP Cohort, this one stop resource lays out an entire year of professional development offerings for after school professionals. In addition to some of our staples such as on-site trainings,
- [Looking for Grant Readers](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/08/09/looking-for-grant-readers/) - Grant Readers Needed for After School Proposals The Connecticut State Department of Education is currently looking for a few good grant readers to help them evaluate grant proposals for after school programs. This is an unpaid, volunteer commitment to read and evaluate three or four proposals (maximum of 40 pages each) and score them on
- [State Funded Grants RFP Released](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/08/18/state-funded-grants-rfp-released/) - The Connecticut State Department of Education has released its Request for Proposals for the After-School Grant Program for Grades K-12 for the two year period 7/1/19 - 6/30/21. The State Department of Education has posted two videos to help with this process, which can be found here: Part 1 Part 2 For the first time,
- [2019 - 2020 STEM Mini Grants](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/08/28/2019-2020-stem-mini-grants/) - STEM Focused Mini-Grants for After School Programs in Connecticut The Connecticut After School Network in collaboration with the NASA Connecticut Space Grant Consortium is offering mini-grants of $1000 each to fund ten afterschool programs across Connecticut in an effort to expand STEM learning in an experiential way. Possible programming must be a minimum of two
- [SEL Series - Poetic Expressions](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/08/28/sel-series-poetic-expression/) - Using Poetry as a Tool for Teaching Social Emotional Development Depressed When a tomato gets chopped, it is depressed. When carrots get diced, they are depressed. When they get mixed, they are depressed. Together! In awe, I read each line of my student’s words and appreciated the depth of her talent and creativity. After reading
- [Workshop Spotlight - Fun Fridays](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/08/30/workshop-spotlight-fun-fridays/) - TGIFriyays! 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!
- [SEL Series - Back to School](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/09/03/sel-series-back-to-school/) - Getting 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,
- [SEL Series - Self Care](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/09/10/sel-series-self-care/) - Three 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
- [21st CCLC RFP Released](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/09/11/21st-cclc-rfp-released/) - The 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
- [Workshop Spotlight - Deep Dives](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/09/16/workshop-spotlight-deepdives/) - These 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
- [SEL Series - Developing Resilience in Children](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/09/18/sel-series-developing-resilience-in-children/) - Developing 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
- [SEL Series - Movies that Teach Empathy](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/09/25/sel-series-movies-empathy/) - Three 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
- [Workshop Spotlight - Working the Tool](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/10/10/workshop-spotlight-working-the-tool/) - In 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
- [SEL Series - Start the New School Year with a BANG!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/10/10/sel-series-start-with-a-bang/) - 5 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. Tiana
- [Lights On Afterschool](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/10/11/lights-on-afterschool/) - 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
- [SEL Series - How to Teach SEL](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/10/17/sel-series-socratic-method-to-teach-sel/) - Using the Socratic Method to Teach Social-Emotional Learning Developing critical thought and questioning abilities in children is an excellent way for students to understand more about their habits, feelings, and behaviors. Often, educators tend to focus on the outwardly expressed actions of the learners rather than helping children to effectively understand the root of their
- [SEL Series - Let them Share](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/10/24/sel-series-let-them-share/) - Let them Share: Helping Children Express their Feelings During a boys’ mentoring session, one of the quieter students shared his thoughts regarding attempting suicide. When the education coordinator shared this information with my colleague and I, we both were shocked. I would never have thought that this student might be experiencing suicidal thoughts or consider actions
- [SEL Series - Encouraging Engagement](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/10/31/sel-series-encouraging-engagement/) - Practical Advice on Encouraging Student Engagement "Miss T, I know we won't put coconut milk in the soup?" One of my students slyly remarked as I read the recipe for the Chicken Tai soup, we were preparing to create in our Teen Chef Class. By now, I was very used to the students’ resistance to
- [SEL Series - The Truth About Praise](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/11/13/sel-series-the-truth-about-praise/) - Many of my students love the show “Avatar: The Last Airbender” as much as I do! There’s a particular episode that truly stands out as a favorite of mine and it’s the episode where the main character and protagonist, Aang, is learning to Earth-bend: a technique that will allow him to have control over earthly
- [How CT Celebrated Lights On!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/11/14/sel-series-lights-on-ct-celebration/) - Connecticut Cities Celebrate “Light’s On Afterschool” Thursday, October 24th marked the 20th year that the Afterschool Alliance has kept the “lights on” for afterschool programming across the nation. The intent of the event is to celebrate the role afterschool programs play in the lives of children and families. This year, over 10,000 events across the
- [SEL Series - Thanksgiving](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/11/18/sel-series-template-copy/) - Thanksgiving Day is not just a dinner Historically Thanksgiving Day is a National holiday in the United States that occurs in November. In 1621, the Plymouth colonists and Wampanoag Indians shared an autumn harvest feast that is recognized today as one of the first Thanksgiving celebrations in the colonies. In 1863, amid the Civil War,
- [SEL Series - Thanksgiving #2](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/11/26/sel-series-thanksgiving2/) - Be- the Thanksgiving you Want to SeeWays to teach gratitude during the Thanksgiving Holiday The Thanksgiving holiday is a great way to teach and model gratitude to children. Thanksgiving should inspire us to stop and think about how we are all connected, and through connection, we all help each other to improve each other's lives.
- [SEL Series - Let's Focus](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/12/04/sel-series-lets-focus/) - Using Seating Arrangements in the Classroom I was speaking with a friend one day and we got into a discussion about her productivity levels. She is currently a graduate student and also teaches. She explained to me that classroom and study environments are tremendously impactful on student’s ability to focus and stay engaged in the
- [SEL Series - How You Say it Matters](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/12/11/sel-series-how-you-say-it-matters/) - “It’s not what you said, it’s how you said it”, I remarked to my father after he said “never mind, it’s fine I’ve got it”. I could hear the frustration and impatience in his voice. His words said, “everything was okay”, but I knew he needed help and was spent from a long day. I
- [SEL Series - Got Talent?](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/12/18/sel-series-got-talent/) - That Kid’s Got Talent! On the Lookout for Your Child's Hidden Talents. Children with learning and attention issues may be more reluctant to try new things because they may already struggle with making friends, academics, and have some social and emotional struggles as well. Often, children are reluctant to try new things for fear of failure- that
- [SEL Series - Teasing](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/01/13/sel-series-why-children-tease/) - Why Children Tease In a perfect world, children wouldn't make fun of each other. Unfortunately, we do not live in an ideal world- and teasing is a typical behavior among younger people. With concerns of bullying in our schools and the impacts it has on our youth, its important to have knowledge about why children may
- [AIM HIGH GRANT OPPORTUNITY](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/01/14/aim-high-grant-opportunity/) - A total of 26 grants will be awarded to support local afterschool, summer, or expanded learning programs serving middle schoolers. Take a look to see which grant category is a good fit for you, and apply! Three grant categories: $100,000 - 8 grants of $50,000 per year over the span of two years will go to
- [SEL Series - Check-in](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/01/21/sel-series-check-in/) - What is your program achieving to include Social Emotional Learning in daily scheduled programming. 1. What is your school' s planning process for choosing the SEL program and activities? 2. What tools, resources, training are your staff performing to implement SEL programs? Is there a coordinator or planning committee to assure that the efforts of
- [NAA's Emerging Leaders of Color](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/01/27/naas-emerging-leaders-of-color/) - The National Afterschool Association just released The Landscape of Afterschool Leadership: Considerations for Supporting and Strengthening Diversity (click here to read full report). As part of that work, NAA is now accepting applications from people of color in out-of-school time who hold mid-level management positions (i.e. site coordinators, program managers, etc.) and would like to
- [SEL Series - Better Transitions](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/02/04/sel-series-better-transitions/) - 5 Strategies that Help with Transitions When I visit our learning centers to conduct an observation, I pay close attention to how staff assist children with transitioning from activities. Let's face it, change is hard for adults but especially difficult for children. It is critical for staff to be able to transition students quickly and
- [HELP SAVE AFTER SCHOOL FUNDING](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/02/10/help-save-after-school-funding/) - Connecticut State Budget Update - February 10, 2020 On February 5, Governor Lamont released his proposed budget adjustment for the next fiscal year starting July 1, 2020. What does this mean for after school funding? The Governor's proposal (on pages B-61 & 62) cuts $530,000 from the state-funded After School Grant Program, a 9% cut that would
- [SEL Series - Group Activities](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/02/18/sel-series-group-activities/) - How to Prepare Children for Group Activities I have to say, I have conducted a few group activities that ended in chaos and have left me wondering what went wrong. Through my experiences, I have learned the skills and strategies that help children develop in learning the skills and benefits of working together in groups.
- [NSLA Spring Webinar Series](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/03/03/nsla-spring-webinar-series/) - Looking for some professional development on-line recorded webinars while you're working from home? The National Summer Learning Association has started its Spring Webinar Series, and has a number of options on their website that are available fore free on-demand from their Winter Series. Click here to view recordings from the past webinars in their Winter
- [Calming the Chaos over Coffee](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/03/18/calming-the-chaos-over-coffee/) - Virtual Roundtables for the Out-of-School Time Field Week 1, Monday 3/23 at 10am: How Are Finding Your Way When Your Program (and so much else) is in Limbo? The past week has been nothing short of thinking on your feet. As a director or staff in an after school program, you no doubt have had
- [Covid-19 Information for After School and Child Care Providers](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/03/19/covid-19-information-for-after-school-and-child-care-providers/) - The Centers for Disease Control has released information to help after school, child care, and schools plan, prepare and respond to the coronavirus. You can find this information here: https://tinyurl.com/qutmzgh. Please read this information, share it with your staff and partners. And consider helping the children in your care to understand the best way to
- [SEL for the Provider](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/03/23/sel-for-the-provider/) - Hello! My name is Mary and I am a part-time Professional Development Specialist with the Network. It’s day five of working from home and I have to say I’m going a little stir crazy. Even though there’s plenty to do, there’s something about suggesting social distance and discouraging in-person human interaction that has me going
- [Looking for Activities to Do with Kids?](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/03/23/looking-for-activities-to-do-with-kids/) - Whether you're home with your own children, or helping with others' kids, or planning curricula for when your afterschool or summer program starts up again, the Connecticut After School Network is posting lots of activities to do with children on our Facebook page. Take a look!
- [Occupying Time](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/04/01/occupying-time/) - From the Archives: Webinars from the Past can Inform Future Thinking When I first started at the Connecticut After School Network 13 years ago we did monthly webinars with guest speakers. At the time there was no Zoom, no streaming video chat, and YouTube was just gaining steam. One thing the COVID-19 pandemic has shown
- [The New Routine](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/04/07/the-new-routine/) - We know children need structure and routine to feel safe in their constantly changing lives to help them organize their time, and to help them regulate their emotions and impulses. My family and yours have just found our usual routine pulled out from under us. My five children are home from elementary school, middle school,
- [After School Programs Contribute](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/04/08/after-school-programs-contribute/) - Resources to Brace for a Minion Rebellion Thanks to Carolyn Stearns for this abundance of resources. Do the walls seem a little closer? Has the family volume button been jacked to maximum? Is it impossible to find personal space? These unwelcome turn of events are all resulting from our precautions against the ravages of the
- [Sample Checklist for After a COVID Case](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/04/09/sample-checklist-for-after-a-covid-case/) - In addition to the Sample Daily Checklist from the YMCA, they have also prepared a list of activities to consider after your program has a COVID case. Click on the document to open in a separate window where you can download it. Special thanks to our colleagues in Santa Clara County, California!
- [Sample Daily Checklist for School Age Programs](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/04/09/sample-daily-checklist-for-school-age-programs/) - Are you currently open for school age child care during the COVID-19 outbreak? Thinking about opening? Take a look at this sample daily checklist from the YMCA. Click on the document to open both pages in a separate window where you can download it. Special thanks to our colleagues in Santa Clara County, California!
- [After School Professionals Week](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/04/20/afterschool-professionals-week-2/) - Celebrate Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week April 20-24!#heartofafterschool After school programs make a difference in the life of a child.After school programs offer youth opportunities for enhanced education.At the heart of afterschool programs are those who work with them. Take a moment to thank those who dedicate their careers to working with them. Check out the
- [Transitions are Hard](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/04/21/transitions-are-hard/) - Transitions Are Hard Anyone who works with children or has children in their life knows transitions can be hard for them. But let’s be honest transitions can be hard for adults as well. We are in the middle of a worldwide transition, major pieces of our lives are in flux and we are all finding
- [Free masks for essential businesses](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/04/29/free-masks-for-essential-businesses/) - Governor Lamont partners with CBIA and CONNSTEP to distribute free face coverings for small businesses Governor Lamont today announced that his administration is partnering with the Connecticut Business and Industry Association (CBIA) and its affiliate CONNSTEP on an initiative to distribute free face coverings to eligible, essential small businesses with fewer than 50 employees. Eligible
- [OST Mini Conference Recordings](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/05/11/ost-mini-conference-recordings/) - 2020 mini conference based on safety and well being of after school staff
- [What's a Mizzen?](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/05/18/mizzen/) - The Mott Foundation has released a new app they have created for after school staff called Mizzen; the app is completely free and can be found on both iOS and Android. The content is supplied by all the after school networks in the United States; a nice collaboration and a way to give back. I
- [Choose Love](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/05/25/choose-love/) - Are you feeling kind of grumpy and out of sorts; working hard to keep yourself motivated and moving? This website might help. It was created by a mother of a Sandy Hook child who died but left a loving message for his mother. She took this message to heart and created a website in his
- [A COVID Summer -- Program Planning](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/05/27/a-covid-summer-program-planning/) - The Connecticut After School Network held its first Summer Planning Roundtable on May 21st with over 80 people attending virtually. As expected, many questions were discussed in 5 distinct areas (Activities, Funding, Logistics, Guidance, and Safety). Please see our Q & A here: Link to Google Sheet - Click here - Read Only). If you
- [COORDINATING WITH SCHOOLS TO PREPARE TO RE-OPEN](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/06/29/coordinating-with-schools-to-prepare-to-re-open/) - *** SEE NEW GRAPHIC BELOW *** The State of Connecticut has just issued its 50 page guidance document to help communities prepare to re-open schools in the fall. Right now is the time to reach out to school administrators to ensure after school is not an after thought. Here's some tips and tools to help
- [CSDE Launches CT Learning Hub](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/07/02/csde-launches-ct-learning-hub/) - Provides All Students Access to Free High Quality, High Impact Resources to Accelerate Learning and Advance Equity The Connecticut State Department of Education (CSDE) today announced the launch of the CT Learning Hub, a free centralized platform to provide students, teachers, and families with universally available, multilingual, quality content in order to advance equitable access
- [Drowning Doesn’t Look Like Drowning](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/07/14/http-ctafterschoolnetwork-org-drowing-doesnt-look-like-drowing/) - If you or your kids will go in the water this summer, please read this In many child drownings, adults are nearby but have no idea the victim is dying. Here’s what to look for from Slate.com: http://slate.me/Zqm3k9 The two minutes you spend reading this could save a life! This article in Slate.com was written
- [Missing Narratives](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/07/17/missing-narratives/) - The Mystic Museum of Art newsletter always inspires the creative part of my brain. In this instance it was particularly inspiring in the wording and invitation for all to join in. I hope it inspires you as it did me. Reprinted with permission from Susan Fisher, Executive Director MMoA Dear Members, Friends, and Neighbors, You
- [Summer Activity Guides - Units 1-5 and Quick Guides](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/07/24/summer-activity-guides/) - The Summer Activity Guides are a suite of fun and engaging activities and challenges designed specifically for this atypical summer. We see youth development and summer learning providers across the country preparing for a summer filled with uncertainty and stepping up in innovative ways to support youth, families, and communities. We have heard your concerns
- [Unsung Heroes: Highlighting the Middlesex YMCA](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/07/24/unsung-heroes-highlighting-the-middlesex-ymca/) - I’m probably preaching to the choir, but there are some unsung heroes in our midst that deserve some recognition. In March when Connecticut went virtual, some afterschool professionals among us got to work preparing to open child care service for essential workers! Afterschool professionals are on the frontlines of this pandemic, allowing others (like doctors,
- [DEADLINE EXTENDED for grant opportunities!!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/08/02/new-grant-opportunities/) - Due to the storm and extended power and internet outages, we have extended the Nonprofit COVID Response Summer Mini Grant application deadline to Friday, 8/14 at 5 pm. The Connecticut After School Network has just released two new requests for proposals for grants of up to $5,000 for summer and up to $20,000 for the
- [Unsung Heroes: Highlighting the New Britain YWCA](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/08/15/unsung-heroes-highlighting-the-new-britain-ywca/) - I’m probably preaching to the choir, but there are some unsung heroes in our midst that deserve some recognition. In March when Connecticut went virtual, some afterschool professionals among us got to work preparing to open child care service for essential workers! Afterschool professionals are on the frontlines of this pandemic, allowing others (like doctors,
- [Free On-line Social-Emotional Learning Course](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/08/24/selcourse/) - Free Course! Social and Emotional Learning in Times of Uncertainty and Stress: Research-Based Strategies As the adults in schools, how do we care for our own well-being so that we can show up as our best selves for our students in these times of change and uncertainty? Thanks to a unified movement across CT, starting
- [Visual Cues - COVID Protocols for Schools](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/08/31/visual-cues-covid-protocols-for-schools/) - As we look forward to the coming school year we know that providing our staff and the children in our programs with clear guidance and structure is going to be the key to keeping everyone safe. Verbal cues and discussion will be helpful but clear visuals will be key in helping everyone succeed. The following
- [Challenge Tuesdays](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/09/01/challenge-tuesdays/) - Introducing, the CT After School Network's Challenge Tuesdays, in a belief that one of the most important things we can give to ourselves and the children in our lives is the gift of 'a little something to look forward to'. It doesn't need to be big or expensive or complicated, just a little something. And in
- [Creating Culture in a Cafeteria Classroom - A COVID19 Consideration](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/09/08/creating-culture-in-a-cafeteria-classroom-covid19-consideration/) - Mask Break Bags As the 20/21 school year started, I reflected on our 2020 summer program. I am thankful that I made it through camp without showing any COVID19 symptoms. You could say it was a matter of luck because (unfortunately) several summer programs we heard about in the news were not as lucky, but
- [American Democracy Game Makes Learning Civics Fun](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/09/14/american-democracy-game-makes-learning-civics-fun/) - The National Conference of State Legislators is sharing one of their newer relaunched features which is called The American Democracy Game. This game is meant to be a way for children in middle school to put themselves in shoes of a lawmaker and find out what it is like to deal with public policy issues. There
- [Connecticut After School Helpline](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/09/21/connecticut-after-school-helpline/) - We are introducing our newest resource -The Network Afterschool Helpline! The helpline is a phone service that gives after school staff the opportunity to speak with professionals, acquire information and ask questions about all things after school related. Need information about COVID cleaning? Looking for tips on how to improve your after school
- [Million Girls Moonshot Blog 1](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/09/21/million-girls-moonshot-webinars/) - A three-part webinar series presented by Dr. Christine Cunningham & Shannon McManus Part 1: Million Girls Moonshot Engineering Practice Support EquityDate: Tuesday, September 22, 12:00 pm PST / 3:00 pm EST Recording can be found herePower Point can be found here Interested in developing professional development focused on engineering mindset in youth? Wondering how to
- [Our Virtual Lights On Event is Here!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/10/13/our-virtual-lights-on-event-is-here/) - This year our Lights On Afterschool celebrations might look a little different, but there are still plenty of ways to showcase the important role afterschool programs play in our communities in a safe, socially-distanced way. Here at the Network, we decided to virtually come together in one video. Get your dancing shoes and check out how the
- [STEM Beyond the School Day](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/10/13/stem-beyond-the-school-day/) - Thinking Like Engineers We’re starting a new series focused on STEM Learning (Science Technology Engineering & Math) in out of school time programming. We’re going to share information and resources for activities and key concepts, learn about different organizations and programs that exist around Connecticut to support STEM learning and the best way you, as
- [No Kid Hungry Grant Opportunity](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/10/15/no-kid-hungry-grant-opportunity/) - This fall, the No Kid Hungry Campaign is offering a community based organization nutrition grant opportunity and Connecticut is one of their target states. This grant will enable local community based afterschool program providers (including 21st Century Community Learning Center programs) to maximize the child nutrition programs (like CACFP At Risk Afterschool Meals and other emergency
- [Million Girls Moonshot Blog 2](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/10/21/million-girls-moonshot-blog-2/) - Technovation Online Design Challenges Over three hour-long sessions this fall with Technovation, you’ll become an expert in leading engineering design challenges online that help students develop engineering mindsets: 1) use the engineering design process; 2) envision multiple solutions; 3) evaluate and iterate; 4) persist and learn from failure; and 5) work in teams. Get ready
- [Girl Scouts of Connecticut](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/11/03/girl-scouts-of-connecticut/) - CT STEM OST Provider Feature Girl Scouts of Connecticut is part of the national organization Girl Scouts of America. As one of the best known out of school time providers, active in Connecticut, and a long history building programs to support leadership, teamwork, and learning for girls, many of us are familiar with their programming.
- [Consider the Mental Health Needs of Youth, Families, and Staff](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/11/05/consider-the-mental-health-needs-of-youth-families-and-staff/) - In these stressful times, people who work with kids and families are often the ones who are most likely to see mental health issues as they come up. The following are some strategies to help: Try to incorporate mental health time for your staff during these days in case people need time to process. Secondary
- [Creating Culture in a Cafeteria Classroom - Staying Positive and Negative during a Pandemic](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/11/09/creating-culture-in-a-cafeteria-classroom-staying-positive/) - Week 1 There is no denying that the COVID-19 Pandemic has affected afterschool in a variety of ways; from scheduling and numbers to safety protocols to activities and interactions. It is very easy to focus on the negative effects, as COVID has seemingly thrown a big old virus-y wrench into the gears of the well-oiled
- [Creating Culture in a Cafeteria Classroom - Staying Positive and Negative during a Pandemic](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/11/16/creating-culture-in-a-cafeteria-classroom-staying-positive-week-2/) - Week 1-Positive Outlook: Reflections The COVID-19 Pandemic has greatly altered our afterschool experiences; from the Youth Development Leader level up through Executive Leadership, and obviously with our youth participants. I have spent entirely too much time dwelling on what has been detrimental to the afterschool field and short selling what has had potential therein. Several
- [Computer Science Week](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/11/17/computer-science-week/) - Did you know that the week of December 7th is Computer Science Week? That is great news to me and I was very happy to find out! I love Computer Science. Four years ago there was a big push in STEM; I wrote a blog about a website called code.org that I had engaged in.
- [Creating Culture in a Cafeteria Classroom - Staying Positive and Negative during a Pandemic](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/11/24/creating-culture-in-a-cafeteria-classroom-staying-positive-week-3/) - Week 3 In our Summer Enrichment program, I chose to read a chapter of L. Frank Baum’s Wizard of Oz to the children each day. During Chapter 1, the group was very interested in the cyclone. Several children had never heard of such a thing and were full of questions. This led to an afternoon full
- [Cloud Learning After School](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/12/01/cloud-learning-after-school/) - Is your program prepared to go virtual for the upcoming months? What is your plan for connecting with the children and families you serve? Nearly nine months into a global pandemic, COVID-19 continues to spread across the United States. As winter nears, schools and out-of-school programs are getting ready to go virtual as we prepare
- [Story Time with Mrs. Claus](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/12/08/story-time-with-mrs-claus/) - Winter is a time for children to enjoy their favorite holiday traditions - playing in the snow, celebrating around the table, sharing stories with loved ones. This holiday season join the American Red Cross as we travel to a winter wonderland where Mrs. Claus will lead us in a story time. So, gather your children,
- [Behavior Management Institute](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/12/08/behavior-management-institute/) - In collaboration with the Utah Afterschool Network and University of Utah, the Behavior Management Institute is designed to provide a system of support for attendees to understand students’ behavior, engagement strategies, and restorative practices as they apply to the crucial topic of behavior management. The Institute includes opportunities for a follow-up webinar, personalized consultation, and
- [Creating Culture in a Cafeteria Classroom - Staying Positive and Negative during a Pandemic](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/12/15/creating-culture-in-a-cafeteria-classroom-staying-positive-week-4/) - Week 4 Over the week leading up to the holiday, I spent a significant amount of time trying to get my technophobic father onto a more reliable video chatting platform. We got him a new laptop, specifically for the upcoming Thanksgiving and Christmas occasions. Our goal? Connect him to the family so we could all
- [Vaccines for Afterschool Staff](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2021/01/04/vaccines-for-afterschool-staff/) - As Connecticut begins to roll-out COVID vaccinations, questions have arisen about where afterschool program staff fit in. Here's the latest on what we know: Staff at afterschool and youth camp programs that work directly with children are considered critical workforce and will be included in the state's phased-in approach to vaccine prioritization. The state is
- [Grant Opportunity](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2021/01/05/grant-opportunity-2/) - Brought to you by the Afterschool Alliance and the New York Life Foundation The New York Life Foundation is seeking applications from afterschool, summer, or expanded learning programs serving underserved middle-school youth. In total, $1.35 million in grants will be awarded to programs all across the country. This is the fifth year of the Foundation’s
- [Afterschool Matters](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2021/01/28/afterschool-matters/) - The Afterschool Matters Journal is a national, peer-reviewed journal dedicated to promoting professionalism, scholarship and consciousness in the field of afterschool education. The journal serves those involved in developing and managing programs for youth during the out-of-school time hours and those engaged in research and in shaping youth development policy. If you are interested in
- [NAA's Next Generation of Afterschool Leaders 2021](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2021/02/15/naas-next-generation-of-afterschool-leaders-2021/) - The Connecticut After School Network would like to recognize NAA’s Next Generation of Afterschool Leaders 2021 honoree Mackenzie Steadman! This annual honor is given by the National AfterSchool Association to recognize emerging leaders who are making a significant impact in the afterschool field. Mackenzie is the School Age and Youth Program coordinator for the Middlesex
- [Resources from National Geographic](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2021/02/18/resources-from-national-geographic/) - National Geographic is again promoting their terrific, free resources to afterschool educators. Below please find a quick summary of each program. For more information, please use the links provided. Explorer Classroom Program Description: Engage students in a live discussion and Q&A session with cutting-edge scientists, researchers and storytellers from across the globe. Explorer Classroom: Afterschool Edition
- [Governor proposes two-year budget (FY 22-23)](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2021/02/22/governor-proposes-two-year-fy22-23-budget/) - The Connecticut General Assembly kicked off its 2021 session on Wednesday, January 6, and will finish on June 2. Governor Lamont has released his proposed budget (click here to download a pdf of the entire budget proposal, and here to watch his budget address). For CSDE’s After School Grants, the line item is flat funded
- [Lt. Governor's Coding Challenge](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2021/02/23/coding-challenge/) - The Lt. Governor's Coding Challenge is a statewide coding competition for Connecticut students. The "Coding for Good" challenge is open to all students in Grades 3 through 12. They can enter as individuals or as a team through their schools and through informal education partners such as the Girl Scouts, the Y’s, Girls Who Code
- [Priority Vaccines for After School Program Staff](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2021/02/23/priority-vaccines-for-after-school-program-staff/) - Starting on March 1, child care workers and educators in currently-operating Connecticut programs can schedule a vaccine appointment at dedicated clinics that will be set up specifically for the child care and education sectors. All who provide direct child care services will be part of the priority group, including after school programs - please note
- [Our Kids are Stressed Out](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2021/03/15/our-kids-are-stressed-out/) - I was looking through my email this morning and I caught site of a BOOST blog with the above title. I have grandchildren and I've been using them as guinea pigs, along with the rest of the neighborhood children. It's fascinating to watch children grow and see the various effects on children by how parents...parent.
- [After School Grant Program 2021 Funding](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2021/03/16/after-school-grant-program-2021-funding/) - The 2021-23 State Department of Education After-School Grant Program for Grades K-12 Grant Competition Opening Thursday, March 18, 2021 Grant Purpose: To implement or expand high-quality programs outside school hours that offer student’s academic/educational enrichment and recreational activities in Grades K-12 that are designed to reinforce and complement the regular academic program of participating students.
- [You are Part of Something Bigger...](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2021/03/29/you-are-part-of-something-bigger/) - You are Part of Something Bigger: National Training Opportunities for the Spring The Connecticut After School Network is excited to offer spring training events from our partners across the country. As part of the 50 State Afterschool Network funded by the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation, the Connecticut After School Network has partnered with the Colorado
- [NEW FUNDING: AccelerateCT Summer Expansion Grants](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2021/04/27/acceleratect-summer-expansion-grants/) - Governor Ned Lamont has announced the release of up to $11 million in new funding to support the expansion of summer learning programs in Connecticut, particularly for children who have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The Connecticut After School Network is proud to partner with the Governor and the State Department of Education in
- [Free Webinar on CDC Guidance for After School & Summer](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2021/05/05/free-webinar-on-updated-covid-19-cdc-guidance-for-after-school-summer/) - The American Camp Association (ACA), the CDC, and the Association of Camp Nursing (ACN) have teamed together to answer your questions and deliver updated guidance from the CDC. This FREE 90-minutes Town Hall style webinar is open to camp directors and out-of-school time (OST) professionals. The last Town Hall, as quoted by Ken Anthony, was
- [Girl's Equity in STEM](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2021/05/25/girls-equity-in-stem/) - I just got through reading an article in Edutopia about How Hidden Classroom Dynamics Can Stymie Girls in STEM. The discussion was related to the “invisible forces that shape classroom culture”. It isn’t anything different than many of the things we already know except that we are filling in the blanks of the why do
- [Free SEL Training for Summer Program Staff](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2021/05/28/free-sel-training-for-summer-program-staff/) - Summer 2021 must become a summer like no other as we welcome students into our summer programs. We need to be ready to help support kids overall well-being, including their physical and mental health, and social and emotional skills. The Connecticut After School Network is here to support programs that work with kids outside the
- [What Made Us Happy...This Week](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2021/06/04/what-made-us-happy-this-week/) - Many things can contribute to happiness. Happiness in itself is a state of contentment, it is more long-lived than joy or pleasure. On the other hand happiness can increase joy or pleasure. We all strive for happiness, we find it elusive because we don’t really know for sure what it is. We think winning the
- [Virtual Summer Training - Week 2](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2021/06/07/free-virtual-summer-training-week-2/) - Week 2 (June 7 - June 11): More than Beads, Putting Intention into Activities Welcome back to our second week of the 50 State After School Network Re-Boot Camp! We hope your first week was amazing and that you learned something new! Thank you to everyone who is continuing to participate. We have another round of
- [Virtual Summer Training - Week 3](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2021/06/14/free-virtual-summer-training-week-3/) - Week 3 (June 14 - June 18): Partnerships for Impactful Learning Recovery Welcome to our third week of the 50 State After School Network Re-Boot Camp! We hope that you enjoyed our second week and that something resonated with you! Thank you to everyone who is continuing to participate. We are now halfway through this program
- [Vaccination requirements the workplace](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2021/06/14/vaccination-requirements-the-workplace/) - In response to FAQs by summer program providers this May, the federal government provided further guidance to employers regarding vaccination requirements. Federal Equal Employment Opportunity "laws do not prevent an employer from requiring all employees physically entering the workplace to be vaccinated for COVID-19, so long as employers comply with the reasonable accommodation provisions of
- [Virtual Summer Training - Week 4](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2021/06/21/free-virtual-summer-training-week-4/) - Week 4 (June 21 - June 25): Connecting with Families and the Community Welcome to our fourth and final week of the 50 State After School Network Re-Boot Camp! This is our final installment of workshops. Thank you to everyone who has participated. We hope that you learned new skills, had meaningful conversations and most importantly
- [Curiosity is the Cure](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2021/06/28/curiosity-is-the-cure/) - I love reading the MMoA blogs of Susan Fisher, they always make me happy. This one struck me because it talks about curiosity. With multiple teachers in my family we talk a lot about engaging children. The toughest part of engaging children is trying to grab their attention. Some children will engage while others not;
- [Important Changes to Summer Program Rules](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/06/21/important-changes-to-summer-program-rules/) - The following important changes to group size, program size, temperature checks and Care4Kids are included in the information below from the Office of Early Childhood: Dear Child Care and Youth Camp Community, The Office of Early Childhood is sharing these critical announcements related to child care and youth camp operations effective Monday, June 22,
- [2020 Summer Planning Tools](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/06/12/2020-summer-planning-tools/) - Summer program and camp providers are entering an unprecedented summer as they prepare to provide a safe, enriching, and fun summer experience while managing changing safety protocols and challenges amidst the COVID-19 Pandemic. The Connecticut After School Network has created a toolkit of resources to support planning for summer, which includes best practice and guidance
- [Resources for Anti-Racism and Equity Education](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/06/08/resources-for-anti-racism-and-equity-education/) - The 50 State Afterschool Networks have put together an initial list of anti-racism and equity teaching resources. Please feel free to download it and share as you wish. The document is set up as a Google spreadsheet with descriptions and live links to various sites, and is sorted into four categories: - Resources for Providers
- [Reimagining and Rewiring Systems to Support Justice and Equity](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/06/04/statement-from-the-connecticut-after-school-network/) - We join with our colleagues in organizations across the country working to support young people by endorsing the statement put out this week by the America's Promise Alliance, quoted in its entirety below. The staff and board of the Network are continuing to work on a strategic planning process through which we will be explicitly
- [Summer Planning Guides](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/04/01/summer-planning-guides/) - Finding A LocationDownload Run a Safe ProgramDownload Staff Retention and RecruitingDownload Communicating with FamiliesDownload CDC Licensing GuidanceDownload Academic SupportDownload Wellness ChecksDownload
- [Coronavirus Resources for Funders and Nonprofits](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/03/23/coronavirus-resources-for-funders-and-nonprofits/) - The Connecticut Council for Philanthropy has published an excellent list of resources for funders and nonprofits to help us all weather this storm. For Nonprofit Resources For Communications and Tech Resources
- [Resources from Afterschool Alliance](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/03/23/resources-from-afterschool-alliance/) - Got some time to work on that professional development hours backlog? Always aspiring to improve yourself, just always got your hands full--except now? Well check out the Afterschool Alliance website. They are not only sharing COVID-19 considerations for the field--including steps you can take to help--but they also have a wealth of webinars on a
- [Resources for Connecticut](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/03/23/resources-for-connecticut/) - Ok, so now what? You’ve still got hours to fill and work to do. We’re working to gather all of the best resource banks to support young people or and keep your own mind sharp. Check out this one from RESC Alliance in partnership with CTSDE. It highlights all sorts of educational resources available online
- [We're here for you.](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/03/18/were-here-for-you/) - Dear friends, During these uncertain times, we want you to know that we’re here for you. Your safety, and those of the families and children you serve, is our highest priority. We will be communicating regularly through email and on our website, providing you with information, resources, training, professional development opportunities, and help however we
- [Wait, I’m Working Remotely?!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2020/03/17/wait-im-working-remotely/) - Well that escalated quickly! Here are 9 articles sharing information and resources about what you can do to prepare and care for yourself, your family, and your work in the coming weeks when it comes to some of the social and emotional aspects of being homebound. Here are some resources to help make this
- [Free Training Webinars](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2019/05/15/free-training-webinars/) - How to Conduct a BioBlitz Awesome activity for summer learning! BioBlitz At-A-Glance What is a BioBlitz? BioBlitz is an opportunity to take a snapshot of the biodiversity of a place! They are typically led by educators, scientists, or park rangers. Where can a BioBlitz be held? A BioBlitz can be held just
- [A Special Notice!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2017/10/12/a-special-notice/) - The After School Network CARES! Because of the lingering budget issues the Network has decided to continue to support our providers and their staff. We want YOUR staff to attend the 2017 After School Network's conference. To help you do this we have decided to: Extend early bird prices throughout our registration period, October 27th,
- [Do you love afterschool? Proclaim it loudly!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2017/02/08/do-you-love-afterschool-proclaim-it-loudly/) - “This year, my Valentine is to a program that makes all the difference for me and for my family,” So began West Valley City, Utah, resident Amanda Owens in her Salt Lake Tribune letter-to-the editor in 2015. The “program” she went on to describe was her son’s afterschool program, run by the Community Education Partnership.
- [Easy Valentine's activity: Share why your students love afterschool!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2017/02/07/easy-valentines-activity-share-why-your-students-love-afterschool/) - This month, we’re celebrating the millions of reasons to love America’s afterschool programs, and we want to see why you and your students love afterschool! Joining in can make for an easy and fun activity for your program in the days leading up to Valentine’s Day. We’ve already seen programs in Washington and Alaska invite
- [Does your after school program receive Care4Kids subsidies?](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/08/08/does-your-after-school-program-receive-care4kids-subsidies/) - AND Are you exempt from child care licensing (for example, run by a school or municipality?) If you answered yes to both of these questions, PLEASE READ ON In mid-August, programs receiving Care4Kids subsidies that are exempt from state licensing will be receiving information from the CT Office of Early Childhood (OEC) regarding changes to
- [Marketing/Communications Intern Sought in Hartford, CT](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/04/11/marketingcommunications-intern-sought-in-hartford-ct/) - The Connecticut After School Network, is pleased to announce an immediate opening for a Marketing Communications Intern. With the Network, you will be helping to expand Connecticut’s kids access to summer and afterschool programs while building your skills and your resume. Use your creative and analytical skills to solve problems and assist a statewide nonprofit
- [Summer Program Tips, Strategies & Activities](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2016/03/17/summer-program-tips-strategies-activities/) - Full of articles, tips and strategies edited from 20 years of School-Age NOTES newsletters, this easy-to-use resource covers the planning steps from January to May and the programming approaches from field trips to themes. Summer Program Tips, Strategies & Activities for School-Agers 5-14 Years Old is an A to Z of how to do summer
- [An #AfterschoolVictory!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/12/10/an-afterschoolvictory/) - Here is the latest news on reauthorization of ESEA, now known as ESSA Congratulations to all of you for your tireless efforts to preserve and improve 21st CCLC in the reauthorization! By a strong bipartisan vote of 85 to 12, the US Senate cleared the second to last hurdle for the reauthorization of the Elementary
- [Resource: Communication Tips for Afterschool Professionals](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/10/06/resource-communication-tips-for-afterschool-professionals/) - Communication Merriam-Webster.com Noun: com·mu·ni·ca·tion \kə-ˌmyü-nə-ˈkā-shən\ The act or process of using words, sounds, signs, or behaviors to express or exchange information or to express your ideas, thoughts, feelings, etc., to someone else A message that is given to someone; a letter, telephone call, etc. Effective, meaningful communication might just be the single most important component
- [#KeepKidsLearning All Summer Long](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/06/19/summer-learning-day-2015/) - Friday, June 19 is National Summer Learning Day. Spread the word that we need to #KeepKidsLearning. For more information visit the National Summer Learning Association website.
- [CANCELLED: 2/9 CT After School Advisory Council Meeting](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/02/06/cancelled-29-ct-after-school-advisory-council-meeting/) - Due to expected inclement weather, the Monday, February 9th After School Advisory Council meeting has been cancelled. The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, April 21. Stay warm and stay safe!
- [9th Annual Childhood Conversations Conference](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2015/01/06/9th-annual-childhood-conversations-conference/) - REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN! The 9th Annual Childhood Conversations conference will take place March 20 & 21, 2015 at the Hartford-Windsor Marriott in Windsor, CT. Join us for 2 days of professional development and learning opportunities for parents and childhood professionals. FRIDAY: Enjoy lunch, networking, vendors and afternoon workshops. SATURDAY: Engage in a morning plenary session, breakfast, lunch, vendors, morning
- [Help the Network as you shop on Amazon.com](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/12/01/help-the-network-as-you-shop-on-amazon-com/) - You shop. Amazon gives. It's that simple. Take two minutes to select the Connecticut After School Network as your charity of choice before shopping on Amazon, and they'll donate half a percent to the Network. All you have to do is use the website smile.amazon.com and select the Network as the charity you want to
- [Americans Want Congress to Invest in Kids and our Future, Not Cut Key Programs](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/11/06/americans-want-congress-to-invest-in-kids-and-our-future-not-cut-key-programs/) - New poll finds overwhelming support for increasing investments in services that support children’s health, nutrition and well-being A national public opinion poll released today by the Children’s Leadership Council finds strong support for increasing funding for effective programs that improve the lives of children and youth across the age spectrum, from birth to adulthood. An
- [Gov. Malloy Announces $4.7 Million for After School Programs Across the State](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/10/30/gov-malloy-announces-4-7-million-for-after-school-programs-across-the-state/) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy yesterday announced that nearly $4 million in funding for before and after-school programs in low-performing, high-poverty schools are being awarded around the state, in addition to over $800,000 in grants for expanded learning time. “Setting our students on a path to success sometimes requires providing extra support outside of the typical school
- [Fall Conference Exhibitors](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/09/16/fall-conference-exhibitors/) - The Connecticut After School Network, is holding its Annual Fall Conference on Saturday, November 8th at the Farmington Marriott in Farmington, CT. This year we are offering several ways to get involved in our conference: our exhibitor fair advertise in our folder donate a door prize You will reach over 300 participants from a
- [Farmers Insurance - Thank a Million Teachers](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/08/27/farmers-insurance-thank-a-million-teachers/) - Thank A Million Teachers: School Supplies and PD Grants Deadline: October 30, 2014 Farmers Insurance is offering a huge pool of grants to thank teachers. Through the website ThankAMillionTeachers.com, thousands of students and parents have logged on to show their support for an inspiring educator. In turn, these educators become eligible to apply for a
- [GTECH After School Advantage Program](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/08/20/gtech-after-school-advantage-program/) - Funder: GTECH Corporation Maximum Award: $15,000 in computer equipment Application Deadline: Rolling The GTECH After School Advantage program provides qualifying nonprofit community agencies with state-of-the-art, internet-ready computer centers. To date, computer centers have been created in 24 U.S. states. These computer centers are designed to provide urban children aged 5 to 15 with a meaningful yet
- [What Children Need](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/08/19/what-children-need/)
- [How Wolves Can Save an Ecosystem](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/08/17/how-wolves-can-save-an-ecosystem/) - This amazing video describes how the wolves brought balance back to the environment...they actually changed a river! In 1995, 14 gray wolves were released into Yellowstone National park amid 15 years of controversy called the Wolf Wars. Today, that release has been considered a major success. In the late 1800's farmers and ranchers expanded
- [The Awesome Foundation Grant](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/08/13/the-awesome-foundation-grant/) - FUNDING OPPORTUNITY Deadline: Submissions are reviewed monthly This foundation funds projects that bring communities together. Awesome ideas "spark an instant of joy and delight and inspire a long-term hope for a more awesome future." Some chapters also routinely contact applicants for interviews before awarding the grants. Anyone can apply. Visit the Connecticut chapter (www.awesomect.com) for
- [Why should we be intentional about programming after school?](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/07/16/why-should-we-be-intentional-about-programming-after-school/) - What defines a high quality program from a mediocre one comes down to intentional program design. However, the perception of the afterschool program being strictly a babysitting service that meets parental child care needs is still the prevalent view amongst those not working in the field. As after school professionals, it is incumbent that we
- [After School Programming: Think Clubs!](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/07/15/after-school-programming-think-clubs/) - Clubs are a programming choice that can contribute a great deal to your after school program. After school clubs create opportunities for personal growth for children. They give children practice in making manageable longer-term commitments and create an opportunity for skill and attention span development. Such groups also provide children with an avenue to self-esteem:
- [Afterschool Funding Announced](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/07/07/afterschool-funding-announced/) - The 21st Century Community Learning Centers Competitive Grant Bidders Conference has just been announced: FRIDAY, JULY 18, 2014 Session 1: 9 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. OR Session 2: 12:30 p.m. – 3 p.m. CREC Coltsville 34 Sequassen Street Hartford CT, 06106 Register by Tuesday, July 15, 2014 at www.crec.org/events/ Please note that there will be
- [After School College Textbooks](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/2014/06/19/after-school-college-textbooks/) - Are you a student at Charter Oak State College? Would you like to save a little extra on textbooks? These titles are available for you in the Credential in After School Education courses offered this Summer: ASE 260: Program Environment & Curriculum for Teachers of Young Children National Institute of Out of School Time (NIOST).

## Pages

- [Homepage](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/) - An initiative of the Connecticut Network for Children and Youth and as the leading after school organization in CT, we strive to work towards every Connecticut child and youth to have the opportunity to participate in high quality, affordable after school programs.
- [STEM Resources](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/stem-resources/) - Sign up for our Monthly STEM Newsletter here. PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITIES FOR YOUTH STEM CAREERS OTHER RESOURCES See what our past participants have to say about their CLASP experience. PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT Career-Connected Learning Framework Afterschool and summer programs give youth the freedom to explore, experiment, and connect learning to real life. To help programs turn that
- [Job Opportunities](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/job-opportunities/) - POST YOUR OPEN POSITIONS WITH THE NETWORK Looking for an after school or summer job? Click on the postings below to learn about potential job opportunities. Descriptions and contact information are listed under each posting. Please contact the organization directly for any inquiries. To include your job listing on our website, please have the following information available.
- [Drive to Quality](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/program-quality/) - Best Practice Guidelines & Self-Assessment Tools Explore the Connecticut After School Program Quality Self-Assessment Tool (CT-QSAT), along with our suite of corresponding trainings and resources. Read More Connecticut After School Quality Self-Assessment Tool CT-QSAT Scoring Sheet document and Scoring Sheet sampleQuality Standards and Guidelines for Connecticut Afterschool Programs, version 1.2.1 2025Zooming In workbook. Use with your
- [Ways to Get Involved](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/ways-to-get-involved/) - Be a part of the after school movement. Promote the well-being and the success of children and youth. Be a powerful advocate and an ally. STAY INFORMED Subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter and other email notifications. When opting in to receive emails you will receive information on regulations, budgets, grants, training. Keep up on issues
- [Professional Development](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/professional-development/) - Training Service The Network provides professional development opportunities for people working in after school programs. We will bring the experts to you! The Network has a wide range of professional trainers and workshops designed to enhance the skills of after school professionals statewide. Find the perfect fit for your staff here. e-Learning Academy Life is
- [Resources](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/resources/) - Welcome to our resources page Below you will find access to a wide array of virtual resources that provide funding research, trends, and thinking in the after school field. Starting an Afterschool Program Don’t know where to start? We hope this helps!The Starting an Afterschool Program Toolkit is a step-by-step guide that takes you from learning,
- [Training Service](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/training-service/) - Training Service The Network provides professional development training opportunities for people working in the afterschool field. Our list of professional trainers has a wide range of workshops designed to enhance the skills of after school professional statewide. With workshops covering a full spectrum of topics you’re sure to find the perfect fit for your staff.Fees
- [Annual Afterschool Conference Workshops](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/fall-conference-workshops/) - CT Afterschool Network
- [Annual Afterschool Conference Presenters](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/fall-conference-presenters/) - CT Afterschool Network
- [e-Learning Academy](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/e-learning-academy/) - CTNCY e-Learning Academy Life is busy, and sometimes, you need to make your professional development work for you. Our online, mobile-friendly e-Learning Academy can be an excellent solution when distance and time become a barrier.You can choose what works best for you. Take individual courses starting at just $9.99 or access our Afterschool Certificate Series
- [Workshop Vault](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/workshop-vault/) - Workshop Vault Below you will find an array of past workshop titles and topics for viewing on your time.Visit our YouTube channel for other available videos. VIDEO AUDIO SLIDE A - B Afterschool Marketing, April 11, 2013 Aligning the Learning Day, February 21, 2013 C - D Cloud Learning AS Series: Bringing it all together:
- [SEL Resources](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/sel-resources/) - Sign up for our Monthly SEL Newsletter here.check out our blog. Social-emotional learning, or SEL for short, is all about how youth and adults learn to understand and handle their feelings, set good goals, care about others, make friends, and make good choices. The Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL) says that SEL
- [Childhood Conversations & Parenting Conversation Conference Information](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/childhood-conversations-together-we-will-information/) - CHILDHOOD CONVERSATIONS & Parenting Conversations CONFERENCE Spaces for All: Creating a Future Where Everyone Thrives CANCELLED Childhood Conversations – Friday, May 2, 2025Parenting Conversations – Saturday May 3, 2025Hartford Marriot Downtown Conference Information – Registration – Keynote/Presenters – Workshops – Exhibitor/Sponsor about This year
- [Childhood Conversations Together We Will Keynote/Presenters](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/childhood-conversations-together-we-will-keynote/) - CHILDHOOD CONVERSATIONS & PARENTING CONVERSATIONS CONFERENCE Spaces for All: Creating a Future Where Everyone ThrivesChildhood Conversations – Friday, May 2, 2025Parenting Conversations – Saturday May 3, 2025Hartford Marriot Downtown Conference Information – Registration – Keynote/Presenters – Workshops – Exhibitor/Sponsor Keynotes FRIDAY PRESENTERS SATURDAY PRESENTERS
- [Childhood Conversations Together We Will Workshops](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/childhood-conversations-together-we-will-workshops/) - CHILDHOOD CONVERSATIONS & PARENTING CONVERSATIONS CONFERENCE Spaces for All: Creating a Future Where Everyone ThrivesChildhood Conversations – Friday, May 2, 2025Parenting Conversations – Saturday May 3, 2025Hartford Marriot Downtown Conference Information – Registration – Keynote/Presenters – Workshops – Exhibitor/Sponsor FRIDAY WORKSHOPS SATURDAY WORKSHOPS Childhood
- [Childhood Conversations Together We Will Exhibitor](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/childhood-conversations-together-we-will-exhibitor/) - CHILDHOOD CONVERSATIONS & PARENTING CONVERSATIONS CONFERENCE Spaces for All: Creating a Future Where Everyone Thrives Childhood Conversations – Friday, May 2, 2025Parenting Conversations – Saturday May 3, 2025Hartford Marriot Downtown Conference Information – Registration – Keynote/Presenters – Workshops – Exhibitor/Sponsor exhibitor/sponsor information For the
- [Our Organization](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/our-organization/) - Our History Originally founded in 1989 and incorporated in 1990 under the name Connecticut School Age Care Alliance (CSACA), the Connecticut After School Network was officially accepted in July 2004 as Connecticut’s after school professional organization. As of July 2022, along with Social Emotional Learning Alliance for CT (SEL4CT) and CT Children’s Collective, it became
- [Advocacy](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/advocacy-2/) - The Connecticut After School Network advocates on behalf of increasing funding for after school and summer programs, as well as for the necessary infrastructure to support quality. State Budget: The Connecticut General Assembly kicked off its 2025 session on Wednesday, January 8th, and will finish on June 4th. Governor Lamont has released his proposed budget
- [Connect with Us](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/connect-with-us/) - We welcome your general inquiries, questions and concerns. Please email and we will respond as quickly as we can.BECOME a SUBSCRIBER and SIGN UP for our Weekly Newsletter and other email notifications. SUBSCRIBE NOW Our office is located at:415 Silas Deane Highway, Suite 201Wethersfield, CT 06109Phone: 203-483-1846 Mailing Address Connecticut Network for Children and YouthPO Box
- [CLASP](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/clasp/) - Coaching & Learning for After School Professionals Coaching & Learning for Afterschool Professionals (CLASP) was created to provide after school professionals with the space and support needed to network, problem solve, and learn with colleagues from across the state. Past CLASP cohorts have included topics such as social emotional learning, intentional programming, researching problems of
- [Training Events](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/training-events/) - Our Events Keywords Location Any dates Event Type Choose an Event Type Advocacy or Networking Event Class, Training, or Workshop Conference Meeting Your browser does not support JavaScript, or it is disabled. JavaScript must be enabled in order to view listings. Events 02 Oct 02 Oct - 02 Oct Lights On Afterschool 2026: A Celebration
- [PD Bites](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/pd-bites/) - Professional Development (PD) Bites Created to provide easily accessible professional development for after school professionals, PD Bites are small bits of information for you to use in your program or it could ignite your interest in a topic and lead to a more in depth understanding.PD Bites include SEL implementation, STEM activities, pocket size resources,
- [Submit Organizer Form](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/submit-organizer-form/)
- [Organizer Dashboard](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/organizer-dashboard/)
- [Submit Venue Form](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/submit-venue-form/)
- [Blog](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/blog/) - Explore Our Blog Posts CategoriesCategories Select Category Activities Advocacy Conferences Contest Events Featured Funding General Interest Grants Health Inspiration Jobs Leadership Member Benefits Million Girls Moonshot Professional Development Programming Quality Research Resources Seminars Social-Emotional Learning State Policy STEM Summer Learning Trainings Uncategorized Webinar Keeping Current to Get Ahead: Letting Go to Lead Ken Anthony –
- [Donate](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/donate/) - We appreciate your support in helping our vision become reality. Thank you! Your donations will help us continue our work in building a movement for more and better programs in Connecticut. DONATE TODAY Annual Giving Opportunities #GivingTuesdayNovember 29, 2022 DONATE HERE Known as one of the year’s biggest day of generosity, GivingTuesday was created in
- [Quality Task Force](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/quality-task-force/) - Quality Task Force The Connecticut After School Network has an active Quality Task Force that meets every other month or so to help Connecticut move toward an integrated quality system for afterschool and summer programming. New participants are always welcome. Meetings are typically held in the Middletown/New Britain area on weekday mornings. If you’re interested
- [Covid-19](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/covid-19/) - Covid-19 Information for Summer Camps, After School and Child Care Providers We’re collecting information from partners across the country and posting links here on our website. The latest information is at the top. If a link is not yet live that means it is in process and will be posted soon.*Updated guidelines from the CDC
- [Venue Dashboard](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/venue-dashboard/)
- [Event Organizers](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/event-organizers/)
- [Cart](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/cart/) - [woocommerce_cart]
- [CT Merch](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/ct-merch/)
- [Checkout](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/checkout/) - [woocommerce_checkout]

## My Templates

- [Default Kit](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/?elementor_library=default-kit)

## Events

- [2026 Annual Afterschool Conference](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/event/2026-annual-afterschool-conference/) - CTNCY is proud to present our 2026 Annual Afterschool Conference, Engineering Quality Afterschool: Defining and Refining. We are excited to continue providing diverse professional development and training to meet the needs of Connecticut’s afterschool professionals. This year's focus is afterschool quality and the ongoing process of defining our quality goals and refining our practices. Our
- [Lights On Afterschool 2026: A Celebration of the Field in CT](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/event/lights-on-afterschool-2026-a-celebration-of-the-field-in-ct/) - Save the Date - Friday, October 2, 2026 - Five Years of Celebration! About the LOA Celebration Our mission is to celebrate the out-of-school time field in Connecticut. We recognize individuals and encourage them to participate in a day of self-care. We engage participants with workshops which include, active play, STEM, SEL and more! Our
- [STEM Week](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/event/stem-week-2/) - STEM Week is back! Join us from November 2-7, 2026. We will offer free virtual workshops each day during STEM Week highlighting great new education resources, experiences, opportunities and ideas that you can try in your programs, classrooms and beyond! STEM Week will expand into the Annual Afterschool Conference with STEM tracks to make space

## Organizers

- [PD Team](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/event-organizer/pd-team/) - Not one or two but all our trainers will be present.
- [Ashton Gauthier](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/event-organizer/ashton-gauthier/)
- [Dr. Ken Anthony](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/event-organizer/dr-ken-anthony/)
- [Shawna Viola](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/event-organizer/shawna-viola/)
- [Khadija Bshara](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/event-organizer/khadija-bshara/)
- [Monica Whalen](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/event-organizer/monica-whalen/)

## Venues

- [Glastonbury YMCA](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/event-venue/glastonbury-ymca/)
- [Riverbrook Regional YMCA](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/event-venue/riverbrook-regional-ymca/)
- [Farmington Pavillion](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/event-venue/farmington-pavillion/)
- [Westport Weston Family YMCA](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/event-venue/westport-weston-family-ymca/)
- [Connecticut State Capitol](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/event-venue/connecticut-state-capitol/) - Location: Connecticut Capitol 210 Capitol Avenue Hartford, CT
- [Wheeler YMCA](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/event-venue/wheeler-ymca/)
- [Atlantic Works Conference Center (AWCC)](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/event-venue/atlantic-works-conference-center-awcc/) - The AWCC is a conference center/coworking space for non-profit organizations as well as participating tenants of the Atlantic Works Office Complex, adjacent to Capewell Lofts. Free parking is available on-site. Address: 57 Charter Oak Avenue, Hartford, CT
- [Hartford Marriott Downtown](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/event-venue/hartford-marriott-downtown/)
- [Marriott Hartford/Windsor Airport](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/event-venue/marriott-hartford-windsor-airport/)
- [YMCA Camp Ingersol](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/event-venue/ymca-camp-ingersol/) - YMCA Camp Ingersoll is a day camp in Portland, CT. We utilize our 77 acres of forest, fields, courts, and Jobs Pond to teach values, make friends, and grow as we explore, play, and have fun!
- [CT Convention Center](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/event-venue/ct-convention-center/)
- [CT Nonprofit Center](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/event-venue/ct-nonprofit-center/) - The CT Nonprofit Center is the collective home to nonprofit organizations in Hartford and is the second largest nonprofit center in the northeastern United States. The Center is designed to provide opportunities for nonprofits to achieve cost savings while operating in a collaborative environment. Members of the Center have access to the tools they need to

## My Library

- [Footer](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/?oceanwp_library=footer) - AN INITIATIVE OF THE CONNECTICUT NETWORK FOR CHILDREN AND YOUTH PHYSICAL ADDRESS 415 Silas Deane Highway, Suite 201 Wethersfield, CT 06109 MAILING ADDRESSPO Box 1409Hartford, CT 06143 Facebook Instagram Youtube Pinterest Linkedin

## Categories

- [Uncategorized](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/category/uncategorized/)
- [Featured](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/category/featured/)
- [Inspiration](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/category/inspiration/)
- [Trainings](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/category/trainings/)
- [Resources](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/category/resources/)
- [Member Benefits](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/category/member-benefits/)
- [Funding](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/category/funding/)
- [Grants](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/category/grants/)
- [General Interest](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/category/general-interest/)
- [Professional Development](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/category/professional-development/)
- [Programming](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/category/programming/)
- [Social-Emotional Learning](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/category/social-emotional-learning/)
- [Webinar](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/category/webinar/)
- [Summer Learning](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/category/summer-learning/)
- [Leadership](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/category/leadership/)
- [Quality](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/category/quality/)
- [Research](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/category/research/)
- [Advocacy](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/category/advocacy/)
- [STEM](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/category/stem/)
- [Events](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/category/events/)
- [Conferences](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/category/conferences/)
- [Seminars](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/category/seminars/)
- [State Policy](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/category/state-policy/)
- [Contest](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/category/contest/)
- [Health](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/category/health/)
- [Jobs](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/category/jobs/)
- [Million Girls Moonshot](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/category/million-girls-moonshot/)
- [Activities](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/category/activities/)

## Tags

- [benefits](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/benefits/)
- [books](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/books/)
- [kits](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/kits/)
- [library](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/library/)
- [member](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/member/)
- [research](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/research/)
- [resource](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/resource/)
- [videos](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/videos/)
- [textbooks](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/textbooks/)
- [leadership](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/leadership-2/)
- [Maxwell](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/maxwell/)
- [feedback](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/feedback/)
- [opinion](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/opinion/)
- [website](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/website/)
- [21CCLC](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/21cclc/)
- [21st CCLC](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/21st-cclc/)
- [CSDE](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/csde/)
- [funding](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/funding-2/)
- [SDE](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/sde/)
- [employment](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/employment/)
- [hiring](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/hiring/)
- [resources](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/resources-2/)
- [staffing](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/staffing/)
- [clubs](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/clubs/)
- [ideas](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/ideas/)
- [assets](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/assets/)
- [resilience](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/resilience/)
- [resiliency](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/resiliency/)
- [youth development](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/youth-development/)
- [RFP](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/rfp/)
- [collaboration](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/collaboration/)
- [intentional](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/intentional/)
- [learning](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/learning/)
- [partnership](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/partnership/)
- [program design](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/program-design/)
- [ABC](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/abc/)
- [advocacy](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/advocacy-2/)
- [infographics](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/infographics/)
- [charter oak](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/charter-oak/)
- [adolescent development](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/adolescent-development/)
- [ages & stages](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/ages-stages/)
- [child development](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/child-development/)
- [developmentally appropriate programming](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/developmentally-appropriate-programming/)
- [domains of development](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/domains-of-development/)
- [Business](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/business/)
- [management](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/management/)
- [Partners](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/partners/)
- [partnerships](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/partnerships/)
- [grants](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/grants/)
- [sustainability](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/sustainability/)
- [behavior](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/behavior/)
- [discipline](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/discipline/)
- [STEM](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/stem/)
- [children](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/children/)
- [PD](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/pd/)
- [training](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/training-2/)
- [events](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/events-2/)
- [engineering](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/engineering/)
- [STCC](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/stcc/)
- [Through My Window](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/through-my-window/)
- [financial](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/financial/)
- [inspiration](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/inspiration-2/)
- [25 years](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/25-years/)
- [celebrate](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/celebrate/)
- [conference](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/conference/)
- [professional development](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/professional-development/)
- [ads](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/ads/)
- [advertise](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/advertise/)
- [exhibitors](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/exhibitors/)
- [fall](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/fall/)
- [fine motor skills](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/fine-motor-skills/)
- [gross motor skills](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/gross-motor-skills/)
- [motor skills](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/motor-skills/)
- [Math](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/math/)
- [Science](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/science/)
- [Technology](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/technology/)
- [Afterschool Alliance](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/afterschool-alliance/)
- [America After 3](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/america-after-3/)
- [data](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/data/)
- [survey](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/survey/)
- [free](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/free/)
- [state networks](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/state-networks/)
- [webinar](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/webinar-2/)
- [state](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/state/)
- [marketing](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/marketing/)
- [registration](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/registration/)
- [invest](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/invest/)
- [national](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/national/)
- [poll](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/poll/)
- [end hunget ct](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/end-hunget-ct/)
- [supper program](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/supper-program/)
- [mini-conference](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/mini-conference/)
- [2015 legislative session](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/2015-legislative-session/)
- [conference call](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/conference-call/)
- [rescissions](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/rescissions/)
- [state budget](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/state-budget/)
- [state-funded After School Grants](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/state-funded-after-school-grants/)
- [Amazon](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/amazon/)
- [donations](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/donations/)
- [smile](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/smile/)
- [smile.amazon](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/smile-amazon/)
- [support](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/support/)
- [network](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/network/)
- [autism](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/autism/)
- [inclusion](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/inclusion/)
- [sonia ellis](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/sonia-ellis/)
- [stipends](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/stipends/)
- [Talk to me](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/talk-to-me/)
- [ADA](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/ada/)
- [compliance](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/compliance/)
- [Legal](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/legal/)
- [seminar](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/seminar/)
- [series](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/series/)
- [childhood](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/childhood/)
- [conversations](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/conversations/)
- [afterschool](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/afterschool/)
- [Compendium](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/compendium/)
- [education](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/education/)
- [whole child learning](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/whole-child-learning/)
- [Google](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/google/)
- [seminars](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/seminars/)
- [stealth](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/stealth/)
- [NIOST](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/niost/)
- [Summer](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/summer/)
- [LGBTQ](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/lgbtq/)
- [Youth](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/youth/)
- [expanded learning opportunties](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/expanded-learning-opportunties/)
- [personalized learning](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/personalized-learning/)
- [reform](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/reform/)
- [student engagement](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/student-engagement/)
- [#myafterschoolstory](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/myafterschoolstory/)
- [#NAA2015](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/naa2015/)
- [share](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/share/)
- [story](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/story/)
- [give](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/give/)
- [shop](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/shop/)
- [After School Day at the Capitol](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/after-school-day-at-the-capitol/)
- [teens](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/teens/)
- [after school](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/after-school/)
- [grant](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/grant/)
- [writing](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/writing/)
- [program](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/program/)
- [software](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/software/)
- [early bird](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/early-bird/)
- [evidence based](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/evidence-based/)
- [programming](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/programming/)
- [social emotional learning](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/social-emotional-learning/)
- [21st century](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/21st-century/)
- [federal](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/federal/)
- [legislation](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/legislation/)
- [educators](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/educators/)
- [mystic](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/mystic/)
- [weekend](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/weekend/)
- [april](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/april/)
- [march](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/march/)
- [tinkering](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/tinkering/)
- [vermont afterschool](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/vermont-afterschool/)
- [Science Controversies](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/science-controversies/)
- [youth voice](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/youth-voice/)
- [behaviors](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/behaviors/)
- [managing](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/managing/)
- [arts](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/arts/)
- [common core](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/common-core/)
- [kick-off](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/kick-off/)
- [literacy](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/literacy/)
- [recreation](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/recreation/)
- [staff](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/staff/)
- [standards](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/standards/)
- [workshop](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/workshop/)
- [Competition](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/competition/)
- [Foundation](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/foundation/)
- [Mott](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/mott/)
- [Noyce](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/noyce/)
- [stories](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/stories/)
- [Video](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/video/)
- [alliance](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/alliance/)
- [contest](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/contest/)
- [lights on](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/lights-on/)
- [poster](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/poster/)
- [submission](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/submission/)
- [Science Friday](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/science-friday/)
- [healthy](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/healthy/)
- [lifestyles](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/lifestyles/)
- [after school grants](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/after-school-grants/)
- [appropriations](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/appropriations/)
- [summer fund](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/summer-fund/)
- [Competency-Based Learning](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/competency-based-learning/)
- [Maine](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/maine/)
- [May](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/may/)
- [presenter](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/presenter/)
- [amazon smile](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/amazon-smile/)
- [Media](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/media/)
- [social](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/social/)
- [social media](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/social-media/)
- [mini](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/mini/)
- [bidders](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/bidders/)
- [issues](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/issues/)
- [fun](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/fun/)
- [workshops](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/workshops/)
- [Board](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/board/)
- [NAA](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/naa/)
- [Voting](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/voting/)
- [deadline](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/deadline/)
- [request for proposal](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/request-for-proposal/)
- [RPF](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/rpf/)
- [camp](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/camp/)
- [drowning](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/drowning/)
- [lifeguard](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/lifeguard/)
- [annual](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/annual/)
- [debriefing](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/debriefing/)
- [legislative](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/legislative/)
- [meeting](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/meeting/)
- [emotional](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/emotional/)
- [dragons](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/dragons/)
- [imagine](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/imagine/)
- [top of the world](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/top-of-the-world/)
- [summer learning day](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/summer-learning-day/)
- [after school grant](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/after-school-grant/)
- [education department](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/education-department/)
- [readers](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/readers/)
- [state of connecticut](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/state-of-connecticut/)
- [infographic](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/infographic/)
- [classroom](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/classroom/)
- [delayed gratification](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/delayed-gratification/)
- [marshmallow test](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/marshmallow-test/)
- [soft skills](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/soft-skills/)
- [development](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/development/)
- [framework](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/framework/)
- [success](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/success/)
- [membership](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/membership/)
- [new](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/new/)
- [rates](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/rates/)
- [criminal](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/criminal/)
- [delinquency](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/delinquency/)
- [justice](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/justice/)
- [juvenile](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/juvenile/)
- [animals](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/animals/)
- [environment](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/environment/)
- [evolution](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/evolution/)
- [advertisement](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/advertisement/)
- [Deep Dive Saturdays](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/deep-dive-saturdays/)
- [First Fridays](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/first-fridays/)
- [Trainings](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/trainings/)
- [allergic dermatitis](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/allergic-dermatitis/)
- [poison ivy](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/poison-ivy/)
- [AERA](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/aera/)
- [creativity](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/creativity/)
- [Minecraft](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/minecraft/)
- [school](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/school/)
- [summer learning](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/summer-learning/)
- [keynote](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/keynote/)
- [speaker](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/speaker/)
- [behavior management](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/behavior-management/)
- [child](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/child/)
- [child-guided](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/child-guided/)
- [curriculum](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/curriculum/)
- [dr. anthony](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/dr-anthony/)
- [dr. ken](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/dr-ken/)
- [engagement](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/engagement/)
- [inquiry](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/inquiry/)
- [inquiry-based](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/inquiry-based/)
- [ken anthony](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/ken-anthony/)
- [spider](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/spider/)
- [video games](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/video-games/)
- [zombie](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/zombie/)
- [21st Century Community Learning Centers](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/21st-century-community-learning-centers/)
- [Congress](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/congress/)
- [ESEA](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/esea/)
- [award](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/award/)
- [community engagement](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/community-engagement/)
- [community leadership](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/community-leadership/)
- [community partnership](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/community-partnership/)
- [dinosaurs](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/dinosaurs/)
- [dinovember](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/dinovember/)
- [family](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/family/)
- [family engagement](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/family-engagement/)
- [nominate](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/nominate/)
- [parent](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/parent/)
- [parent award](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/parent-award/)
- [parent engagement](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/parent-engagement/)
- [parent involvement](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/parent-involvement/)
- [parenting](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/parenting/)
- [pirc](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/pirc/)
- [serc](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/serc/)
- [connection](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/connection/)
- [deep dive](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/deep-dive/)
- [engaging](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/engaging/)
- [enrichment](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/enrichment/)
- [first friday](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/first-friday/)
- [games](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/games/)
- [gamification](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/gamification/)
- [homework](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/homework/)
- [homework help](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/homework-help/)
- [networking](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/networking/)
- [noise](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/noise/)
- [participation](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/participation/)
- [statewide](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/statewide/)
- [toys](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/toys/)
- [wokshop](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/wokshop/)
- [communications](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/communications/)
- [tips](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/tips/)
- [statewide network](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/statewide-network/)
- [defiant children](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/defiant-children/)
- [clasp](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/clasp/)
- [cohort](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/cohort/)
- [academic](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/academic/)
- [art](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/art/)
- [bully](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/bully/)
- [bullying](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/bullying/)
- [bullying prevention](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/bullying-prevention/)
- [creative](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/creative/)
- [emotional skills](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/emotional-skills/)
- [flocabulary](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/flocabulary/)
- [hip hop](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/hip-hop/)
- [lights](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/lights/)
- [lights on after school](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/lights-on-after-school/)
- [lights on afterschool](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/lights-on-afterschool/)
- [music](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/music/)
- [ost](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/ost/)
- [out of school](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/out-of-school/)
- [rap](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/rap/)
- [rhymes](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/rhymes/)
- [rhyming](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/rhyming/)
- [social skills](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/social-skills/)
- [social-emotional](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/social-emotional/)
- [vocabulary](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/vocabulary/)
- [APT tool](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/apt-tool/)
- [grantees](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/grantees/)
- [documentary](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/documentary/)
- [Malala](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/malala/)
- [Bruce](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/bruce/)
- [case study](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/case-study/)
- [ROSCCO](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/roscco/)
- [Stamford](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/stamford/)
- [information](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/information/)
- [reminders](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/reminders/)
- [elections](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/elections/)
- [donation](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/donation/)
- [GivingTuesday](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/givingtuesday/)
- [21stCCLC](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/21stcclc/)
- [childhood conversation](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/childhood-conversation/)
- [Care 4 Kids](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/care-4-kids/)
- [CCDF](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/ccdf/)
- [conflict resolution](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/conflict-resolution/)
- [issues with boys](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/issues-with-boys/)
- [troubled boys](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/troubled-boys/)
- [Coding for Girls](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/coding-for-girls/)
- [Hour of Code](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/hour-of-code/)
- [eat snow](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/eat-snow/)
- [yellow snow](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/yellow-snow/)
- [zappa](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/zappa/)
- [Mystic Seaport](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/mystic-seaport/)
- [opportunities](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/opportunities/)
- [Big Bang](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/big-bang/)
- [Universe](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/universe/)
- [budget cuts](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/budget-cuts/)
- [petition](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/petition/)
- [state funding](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/state-funding/)
- [state grants](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/state-grants/)
- [gambling addiction](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/gambling-addiction/)
- [minigrant](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/minigrant/)
- [youth gambling](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/youth-gambling/)
- [afterschool funding](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/afterschool-funding/)
- [STEM afterschool funding](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/stem-afterschool-funding/)
- [STEM funding](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/stem-funding/)
- [provider tools](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/provider-tools/)
- [Dental care](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/dental-care/)
- [Dental Grants](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/dental-grants/)
- [Oral health](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/oral-health/)
- [PD Survey](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/pd-survey/)
- [After School Funding](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/after-school-funding/)
- [afterschool grants](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/afterschool-grants/)
- [USTA grants](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/usta-grants/)
- [childhood stress](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/childhood-stress/)
- [stress](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/stress/)
- [stress awareness](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/stress-awareness/)
- [stress resource](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/stress-resource/)
- [after school research](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/after-school-research/)
- [mentoring](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/mentoring/)
- [brain building](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/brain-building/)
- [childhood brain growth](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/childhood-brain-growth/)
- [childhood learning](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/childhood-learning/)
- [SEL](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/sel/)
- [Poster contest](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/poster-contest/)
- [keep kids learning](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/keep-kids-learning/)
- [kids and summer](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/kids-and-summer/)
- [communication](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/communication/)
- [intern](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/intern/)
- [opportunity](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/opportunity/)
- [afterschool day](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/afterschool-day/)
- [heartofafterschool](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/heartofafterschool/)
- [educational parent partnership](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/educational-parent-partnership/)
- [free book](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/free-book/)
- [reading](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/reading/)
- [summer reading](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/summer-reading/)
- [summer slide](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/summer-slide/)
- [basketballs](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/basketballs/)
- [contests](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/contests/)
- [giveaways](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/giveaways/)
- [summer affordability](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/summer-affordability/)
- [summer care access](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/summer-care-access/)
- [ocean](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/ocean/)
- [pool](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/pool/)
- [water](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/water/)
- [fathers day](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/fathers-day/)
- [fathers matter](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/fathers-matter/)
- [Funder Tips](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/funder-tips/)
- [summer learning loss](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/summer-learning-loss/)
- [youth health](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/youth-health/)
- [youth safety](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/youth-safety/)
- [CT Invention Convention](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/ct-invention-convention/)
- [message mask](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/message-mask/)
- [Beach fun](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/beach-fun/)
- [summer fun](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/summer-fun/)
- [bullies](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/bullies/)
- [ocean cleanup](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/ocean-cleanup/)
- [ocean technology](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/ocean-technology/)
- [plastic pollution](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/plastic-pollution/)
- [21st CCLC Bidders Conference](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/21st-cclc-bidders-conference/)
- [2016 election](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/2016-election/)
- [nonprofit vote](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/nonprofit-vote/)
- [register to vote](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/register-to-vote/)
- [voter registration](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/voter-registration/)
- [Care4Kids](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/care4kids/)
- [exempt](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/exempt/)
- [licensing](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/licensing/)
- [OEC](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/oec/)
- [Back to School](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/back-to-school/)
- [Pokémon](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/pokemon/)
- [technoology](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/technoology/)
- [families](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/families/)
- [parents](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/parents/)
- [Parent Partnership](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/parent-partnership/)
- [human body projects](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/human-body-projects/)
- [STEM projects](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/stem-projects/)
- [Picard](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/picard/)
- [Star Trek](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/star-trek/)
- [summer learning best practices](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/summer-learning-best-practices/)
- [summer programs](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/summer-programs/)
- [wallace foundation](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/wallace-foundation/)
- [education policy](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/education-policy/)
- [anxiety](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/anxiety/)
- [ICYMI](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/icymi/)
- [NPR](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/npr/)
- [grade level reading](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/grade-level-reading/)
- [learn to read](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/learn-to-read/)
- [reading gap](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/reading-gap/)
- [reading proficiency](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/reading-proficiency/)
- [school readiness](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/school-readiness/)
- [call](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/call/)
- [liscensing](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/liscensing/)
- [task force](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/task-force/)
- [annual fall conference](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/annual-fall-conference/)
- [Farmington](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/farmington/)
- [Highlight](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/highlight/)
- [Magazine](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/magazine/)
- [new job](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/new-job/)
- [new job relationships](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/new-job-relationships/)
- [new job resources](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/new-job-resources/)
- [work relationships](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/work-relationships/)
- [job relationship tips](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/job-relationship-tips/)
- [little details](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/little-details/)
- [parent relationships](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/parent-relationships/)
- [student relationships](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/student-relationships/)
- [contructive criticsm](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/contructive-criticsm/)
- [job feedback](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/job-feedback/)
- [afterschool voices](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/afterschool-voices/)
- [Valentines](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/valentines/)
- [Classroom Tips](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/classroom-tips/)
- [activities](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/activities/)
- [physical activity](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/physical-activity/)
- [math games](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/math-games/)
- [essay](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/essay/)
- [organization](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/organization/)
- [themes](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/themes/)
- [snesory](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/snesory/)
- [suicide resources](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/suicide-resources/)
- [childhood trauma](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/childhood-trauma/)
- [trauma](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/trauma/)
- [CT State Grant](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/ct-state-grant/)
- [SDE RFP](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/sde-rfp/)
- [Presenters](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/presenters/)
- [charles stewart mott](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/charles-stewart-mott/)
- [fellows](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/fellows/)
- [furman](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/furman/)
- [white riley peterson](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/white-riley-peterson/)
- [New Britain](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/new-britain/)
- [trauma informed](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/trauma-informed/)
- [interns](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/interns/)
- [internship](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/internship/)
- [registeration](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/registeration/)
- [committee](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/committee/)
- [volunteers](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/volunteers/)
- [General Interest](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/general-interest/)
- [holidays](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/holidays/)
- [mural](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/mural/)
- [incentive](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/incentive/)
- [UConn](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/uconn/)
- [2018](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/2018/)
- [lob](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/lob/)
- [murals](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/murals/)
- [interesting photos](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/interesting-photos/)
- [unusual photos](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/unusual-photos/)
- [regulations](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/regulations/)
- [mini grants](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/mini-grants/)
- [positive staff](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/positive-staff/)
- [work culture](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/work-culture/)
- [imagination](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/imagination/)
- [learning and play](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/learning-and-play/)
- [SEL Program](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/sel-program/)
- [sel resources](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/sel-resources/)
- [Mentors](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/mentors/)
- [Volunters](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/volunters/)
- [sel series](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/sel-series/)
- [snack time](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/snack-time/)
- [soar](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/soar/)
- [CASEL](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/casel/)
- [teachers](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/teachers/)
- [national geographic](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/national-geographic/)
- [STEM resources](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/stem-resources/)
- [afterschool research](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/afterschool-research/)
- [as research](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/as-research/)
- [Research Practioner Partnerships](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/research-practioner-partnerships/)
- [RPP](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/rpp/)
- [south windsor](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/south-windsor/)
- [state of after school](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/state-of-after-school/)
- [geochallenge](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/geochallenge/)
- [mentoring at work](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/mentoring-at-work/)
- [expanded learning](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/expanded-learning/)
- [middle school](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/middle-school/)
- [empathy](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/empathy/)
- [conflict](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/conflict/)
- [friends](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/friends/)
- [relationships](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/relationships/)
- [respect](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/respect/)
- [4 burners](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/4-burners/)
- [balance](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/balance/)
- [work life](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/work-life/)
- [sorry](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/sorry/)
- [growth mindset](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/growth-mindset/)
- [power](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/power/)
- [Keep to the top](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/keep-to-the-top/)
- [storytelling](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/storytelling/)
- [self-care; sel;](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/self-care-sel/)
- [2019 budget](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/2019-budget/)
- [self-awareness](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/self-awareness/)
- [social-awareness](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/social-awareness/)
- [student behavior](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/student-behavior/)
- [Fishing metaphor](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/fishing-metaphor/)
- [guz wuzzle](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/guz-wuzzle/)
- [leadership strategies](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/leadership-strategies/)
- [life lesson](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/life-lesson/)
- [staff empowerment](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/staff-empowerment/)
- [modelling](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/modelling/)
- [motivation](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/motivation/)
- [part 2](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/part-2/)
- [water safety](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/water-safety/)
- [red rover](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/red-rover/)
- [weekest link](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/weekest-link/)
- [conversation](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/conversation/)
- [talking to children](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/talking-to-children/)
- [self-esteem](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/self-esteem/)
- [Teen behaviro](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/teen-behaviro/)
- [SEL Health](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/sel-health/)
- [21stCCLC New Haven](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/21stcclc-new-haven/)
- [DeLauro](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/delauro/)
- [SEL activities](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/sel-activities/)
- [disagreements](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/disagreements/)
- [catalog](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/catalog/)
- [sel expression](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/sel-expression/)
- [sel poetry](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/sel-poetry/)
- [fun fridays](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/fun-fridays/)
- [deep dives](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/deep-dives/)
- [CTQSAT](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/ctqsat/)
- [quality](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/quality/)
- [working the tool](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/working-the-tool/)
- [socratic method](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/socratic-method/)
- [emerging leaders](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/emerging-leaders/)
- [2021 budget](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/2021-budget/)
- [covid-19](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/covid-19/)
- [telecommuting](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/telecommuting/)
- [working from home](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/working-from-home/)
- [working remotely](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/working-remotely/)
- [Roundtable](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/roundtable/)
- [coronavirus](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/coronavirus/)
- [covid](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/covid/)
- [health](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/health/)
- [safety](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/safety/)
- [transitions](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/transitions/)
- [change](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/change/)
- [online learning](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/online-learning/)
- [convid 19](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/convid-19/)
- [self-care](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/self-care/)
- [AS apps](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/as-apps/)
- [AS projects](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/as-projects/)
- [AS tools](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/as-tools/)
- [choose love](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/choose-love/)
- [jesse lewis](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/jesse-lewis/)
- [2020 summer planning](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/2020-summer-planning/)
- [Covid planning](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/covid-planning/)
- [Summer Covid planning](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/summer-covid-planning/)
- [fun stuff](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/fun-stuff/)
- [network challenge](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/network-challenge/)
- [Activities for kids](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/activities-for-kids/)
- [activity guides](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/activity-guides/)
- [Mizzen](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/mizzen/)
- [Summer Activities](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/summer-activities/)
- [art activities](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/art-activities/)
- [Mysic Art Museum](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/mysic-art-museum/)
- [AS ideas covid](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/as-ideas-covid/)
- [ceara ladue](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/ceara-ladue/)
- [Covid Heroes](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/covid-heroes/)
- [Middlesex YMCA](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/middlesex-ymca/)
- [Project 26](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/project-26/)
- [minigrants](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/minigrants/)
- [Joanna Figueroa](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/joanna-figueroa/)
- [New Britain YWCA](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/new-britain-ywca/)
- [Tracey Madden Hennessey](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/tracey-madden-hennessey/)
- [COVID safety](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/covid-safety/)
- [Covid safety schools](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/covid-safety-schools/)
- [social distance](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/social-distance/)
- [Wash hands](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/wash-hands/)
- [Wear masks](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/wear-masks/)
- [diy mask in a bag](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/diy-mask-in-a-bag/)
- [mask breaks](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/mask-breaks/)
- [mask safety](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/mask-safety/)
- [American Democracy Game](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/american-democracy-game/)
- [civics game](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/civics-game/)
- [NCSL](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/ncsl/)
- [engineering mindset](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/engineering-mindset/)
- [girls engineering](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/girls-engineering/)
- [girls equity](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/girls-equity/)
- [Inclusiveness](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/inclusiveness/)
- [million girls](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/million-girls/)
- [STEM webinars](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/stem-webinars/)
- [helpline](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/helpline/)
- [lightson2020](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/lightson2020/)
- [donate](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/donate/)
- [MGM](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/mgm/)
- [million girls moonshot](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/million-girls-moonshot/)
- [Problem Solving](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/problem-solving/)
- [girls scounts](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/girls-scounts/)
- [mental health](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/mental-health/)
- [suicide prevention](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/suicide-prevention/)
- [mindset](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/mindset/)
- [as culture](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/as-culture/)
- [Macdonough](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/macdonough/)
- [Learning games](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/learning-games/)
- [wizard of oz](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/wizard-of-oz/)
- [e-learning](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/e-learning/)
- [virtual classroom](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/virtual-classroom/)
- [virtual classroom after school](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/virtual-classroom-after-school/)
- [emergency action children](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/emergency-action-children/)
- [reading with Mrs Claus](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/reading-with-mrs-claus/)
- [red cross reading](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/red-cross-reading/)
- [virtual learning](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/virtual-learning/)
- [middle school grants](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/middle-school-grants/)
- [New York Life](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/new-york-life/)
- [Leaders](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/leaders/)
- [NextGen](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/nextgen/)
- [CT Coding Challenge](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/ct-coding-challenge/)
- [STEM challenge](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/stem-challenge/)
- [vaccine](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/vaccine/)
- [BOOST](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/boost/)
- [CALMM](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/calmm/)
- [yoga](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/yoga/)
- [brainstorming](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/brainstorming/)
- [failure](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/failure/)
- [cdc guidelines](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/cdc-guidelines/)
- [Covid guidelines](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/covid-guidelines/)
- [teamwork](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/teamwork/)
- [girls STEM](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/girls-stem/)
- [curiosity](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/curiosity/)
- [MMoA](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/mmoa/)
- [Susan Fisher](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/susan-fisher/)
- [CLASP STEM](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/clasp-stem/)
- [spill the tea](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/spill-the-tea/)
- [tea time](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/tea-time/)
- [questions](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/questions/)
- [answers](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/answers/)
- [virtual conference](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/virtual-conference/)
- [annual conference](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/annual-conference/)
- [afterschool conference](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/afterschool-conference/)
- [look up](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/look-up/)
- [stars](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/stars/)
- [stargazing](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/stargazing/)
- [astronomy](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/astronomy/)
- [recruitment](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/recruitment/)
- [kit](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/kit/)
- [Pathways](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/pathways/)
- [Coffee](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/coffee/)
- [Virtual](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/virtual/)
- [great give](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/great-give/)
- [Feel Good Friday](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/feel-good-friday/)
- [Gratitude](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/gratitude/)
- [Thankful](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/thankful/)
- [Happy](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/happy/)
- [job opportunity](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/job-opportunity/)
- [coordinator](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/coordinator/)
- [May the 4th be with you](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/may-the-4th-be-with-you/)
- [UVA](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/uva/)
- [UVB](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/uvb/)
- [Sunscreen](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/sunscreen/)
- [Summer Safety](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/summer-safety/)
- [mizzenbymott](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/mizzenbymott/)
- [webinars](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/webinars/)
- [Environmental Science](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/environmental-science/)
- [powerofussurvey](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/powerofussurvey/)
- [professionals](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/professionals/)
- [ARP ESSER](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/arp-esser/)
- [Innovation](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/innovation/)
- [Request for Presenters](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/request-for-presenters/)
- [vendors](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/vendors/)
- [sponsors](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/sponsors/)
- [parent survey](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/parent-survey/)
- [Early Childhood](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/early-childhood/)
- [day of giving](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/day-of-giving/)
- [Facebook Live](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/facebook-live/)
- [well-being institute](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/well-being-institute/)
- [utah afterschool network](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/utah-afterschool-network/)
- [milliongirlmoonshot](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/milliongirlmoonshot/)
- [afterschoolstem](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/afterschoolstem/)
- [afterschoolworks](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/afterschoolworks/)
- [thisisafterschool](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/thisisafterschool/)
- [Next Generation of Afterschool Leaders](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/next-generation-of-afterschool-leaders/)
- [Workforce](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/workforce/)
- [Blog](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/blog/)
- [STEM Activities](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/stem-activities/)
- [covid19](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/covid19/)
- [annual meeting](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/annual-meeting/)
- [year in review](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/year-in-review/)
- [annual after school conference](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/annual-after-school-conference/)
- [PD Bites](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/pd-bites/)
- [lightonafterschool](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/lightonafterschool/)
- [lightsonafterschoolCT](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/lightsonafterschoolct/)
- [needs assessment](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/needs-assessment/)
- [Afterschool Matters](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/afterschool-matters/)
- [Anniversary](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/anniversary/)
- [Celebration](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/tag/celebration/)

## Event categories

- [Frontline](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/event_listing_category/frontline/)
- [Takeaways](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/event_listing_category/takeaways/)

## Event types

- [Conference](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/event_listing_type/conference/)
- [Advocacy or Networking Event](https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/event_listing_type/advocacy-or-networking-event/)