Benefits of Afterschool

Each year youth have 2,000 hours of discretionary non-school time - roughly the equivalent of a full time job. What young people do with this time is critically important in shaping their futures. When we are deliberate about using this time wisely - we are more likely to find the passion in each young person, hear their voices, and understand their contributions to their community.

Adolescence is when brains are being "wired" for adulthood. One of the biggest influences on the brain's development is the type of experiences young people have. The right kinds of experiences forge brain connections that help them develop sound judgment, foresee the consequences of their actions, and collaborate well with others. For example, afterschool learning experiences-like the opportunity to lead a discussion, plan a food drive, perform in a play, or carry out a community assignment-help build positive brain connections that over time assist young people to grow into mature, active community members.

Youth programs work with families to help ensure the transition from childhood to adolescence and from adolescence to adulthood is successful. Afterschool programs nurture young people by providing a safe way for them to explore the larger world. Youth begin to understand and practice their future role as adults who think before they act, give as well as take, and pitch in to help solve common problems.

Impact of Quality Afterschool Opportunities

Regular participation in high-quality afterschool programs is linked to positive outcomes for children and youth. High-quality afterschool programs offer supportive relationships, supervision, appropriate structure, and a wide range of opportunities that include academic, recreation, arts and other enrichment activities. Youth who participate regularly in high-quality programs compared to those of similar backgrounds, who did not participate regularly, experienced significant positive outcomes.

Based on a meta-analysis of findings from ten years of afterschool, summer and year-round  program results, participants in high-quality afterschool programs demonstrate:

• lower dropout rates;
• higher school attendance;
• higher achievement test scores and grades;
• improved homework completion;
• higher academic motivation and aspirations;
• higher on-time grade promotion; and
• lower disciplinary incidents.

Similarly, the social and emotional impacts of high-quality afterschool, summer and year-round programs include:

• improved feelings and attitudes toward self and school;
• increased self-confidence, self-esteem, and self-efficacy;
• improved social and communication skills;
• better relationships with others (peers, parents, teachers);
• higher levels of initiative;
• decreased behavioral problems; and
• lower levels of depression and anxiety.