When considering professional development topics for afterschool professionals, neuroscience probably doesn't rise to the top. It sounds like something best left to brain surgeons and psychiatrists, perhaps among the few roles afterschool professionals aren't expected to fill.

Afterschool programs provide a lot of things for young people. Now, brain science proves the work being done in afterschool programs supports the development of youth in a variety of ways.

Last month, afterschool professionals across the nation celebrated Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week, April 24 through April 28. During these few days, we encouraged celebration of those who deliver the incredibly important—yet often undervalued—task of providing direct service in out-of-school programs to youth every day.