U.S. flag

An official website of the United States government, Department of Justice.

NCJRS Virtual Library

The Virtual Library houses over 235,000 criminal justice resources, including all known OJP works.
Click here to search the NCJRS Virtual Library

Working for Children and Families: Safe and Smart After-School Programs

NCJ Number
183711
Date Published
2000
Length
90 pages
Annotation
This report presents research and examples illustrating the potential of quality after-school activities to keep children safe, out of trouble, and learning.
Abstract
The report presents empirical and anecdotal evidence of success of after-school activities and identifies key components of high-quality programs and effective program practices. It discusses keeping children on the right track; enhancing children's academic achievement; supporting children's social development and their relationships with adults and peers; and strengthening schools, families and communities. Components of exemplary programs reviews: (1) goal setting, strong management and sustainability; (2) staffing; (3) safety, health, and nutrition; (4) partnerships with community-based organizations, juvenile justice agencies, law enforcement and youth groups; (5) family involvement; (6) enriching learning opportunities; (7) linkages between school-day and after-school personnel; and (8) evaluating program progress and effectiveness. The report highlights exemplary after-school and extended learning models from across the country. It includes organizations, Websites, listservs, videos and publications for further information. Figures, notes, bibliography