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Professional Development

NAA publishes fresh, new content every week covering a wide variety of topics related to the field of aftershool. In addition, NAA offers a variety of opportunities for virtual professional development (PD) through meaningful content, conversations and connections. Click here to see full descriptions of virtual PD offerings.

Welcome to the Twitterverse!

Last year, I felt like a Gen Xer living in a millennial's world. Wait—who am I kidding? That's exactly what I was! This year is different. I realized that I'd somehow grown from latchkey, Doc Martens, and MTV of the '70s and '80s to afterschool for all, casual Fridays and Twitter for the 21st Century!

A little over a year ago, our media consultants challenged me to become active on Twitter. I must admit I was skeptical and tentative at first, but now I'm the first one to jump up and say, "I heart Twitter!" Twitter is a great way for individuals to stay up-to-date on news, gain additional professional development, connect with other professionals, and even get the occasional laugh. It's also perfect for organizations that are looking to share their stories and expand their reach.

For me and for NAA, Twitter has provided an opportunity to network with others in and outside of the field, interact with the members of our community, engage with participants during our convention and other events, and communicate the latest afterschool and association news.

Are you a Gen Xer or a baby boomer who's interested in Twitter, but unsure about entering the Twitterverse? Are you an organization that's looking to branch out further into social media? I'm self-taught and I'm confident that you can be, too. Here are some great resources to get you started.

Written by Heidi Ham,  NAA Vice President of Programs and Strategy. Engage with Heidi via Twitter: @ham_heidi