Empowering Afterschool Providers to Create Healthier Communities: January 29, 2015, 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. PST

Due to the number of U.S. children who attend various types of afterschool care, it is becoming increasingly clear that out-of-school time staff can play an essential role in helping young people eat healthy and stay active.

During this winter season, it's important to keep the interest of your students, and energize their creativity.

Join us March 8 – 11, 2015 in Washington, D.C., at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center.

Lonely Planet, the esteemed international guidebook publisher, recently named Washington, D.C., as its pick for the world's best city to visit in 2015. Join NAA and over 2,000 afterschool professionals for the largest gathering for learning and connecting in the afterschool field! EXPLORE Washington, DC! EXPERIENCE learning and gain valuable new ideas! INNOVATE and share your successes in afterschool and summer programs! CONNECT with leaders and experts! CELEBRATE afterschool in our nation's capital!

The Alliance for a Healthier Generation, National AfterSchool Association, Nickelodeon, and Penguin Young Readers are joining forces to launch "Peter Rabbit: Hop to Health."

What outcomes are most important to track? How can we use data to improve our expanded-learning system? What tools exist to measure social and emotional skills?

Applications are now being accepted for the STEMworks database of effective STEM learning programs. Any STEM programs that serve preK-12 students and teachers—in or out of school—can and are encouraged to apply. Applications are due Friday, September 12, 2014.

4 ways to enhance orientation before the new school year starts

As fall is approaching and the new school year is underway, most afterschool programs have begun the cycle of hiring and orientating new staff. As you dust off your orientation packets and new staff checklists, this can be a perfect time to evaluate your current methods and consider new strategies that may increase effectiveness and assist your new employees in surviving the new school year. This critical time can be challenging for new staff, existing staff, families, and program participants.