Over 10 million kids across the country are participating in afterschool programs today, with more than 550,000 workers leading the way.

However, many don't know that afterschool has been around for a long time and aren't aware of the important contributions that afterschool programs have made—dating back to the early 1900s.

Due to large public and private investments, afterschool has greatly expanded, becoming its own field. Thus, the vital need to document, share and celebrate afterschool's history with others emerged.

Temescal Associates created The History of Afterschool in America, a 60-minute documentary examining the early pre-conditions and growth of the afterschool movement from the early 1900s to today. It explores the growing demand for child supervision, afterschool's role as a unique institution serving low-income youth, and the lessons we can draw from this history. Additionally, it looks at the contemporary field and considers the future of afterschool programs. The documentary, narrated by Pedro Noguera, includes interviews with 19 national and local afterschool leaders.

The documentary was made possible by generous contributions from the National AfterSchool Association, Temescal Associates, the W.H. Hurt Foundation, ExpandED Schools, Every Hour Counts, After-School All-Stars, CitySpan, CalSAC, and individual donations.

The History of Afterschool in America is an excellent training and educational tool for afterschool staff and stakeholders and is available to download at the How Kids Learn Foundation. A DVD—accompanied by a learning guide and media kit—may also be requested.

Courtesy of NAA.