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.
Ten Strategies for Effective Communication in Afterschool
Tuesday, 17 June 2014 00:00Working in an afterschool program involves taking on many roles and interacting with a variety of people, including staff, parents, and children. Effective communication techniques can help maintain a clear vision of the program's goals, clarify expectations of staff and students, and assure parents that their children are in good hands.
Technology Tutorial
Tuesday, 03 June 2014 13:43Using technology to teach is great, but the options are vast—and it can be overwhelming to sift through and find the best websites and apps to use in your classroom. Luckily, Leigh Anne Frazier and Cindy Curry have done some of the sifting for you!
Effective Models for Healthy Living OST
Tuesday, 03 June 2014 13:07In a study called "On the Move," Drs. Georgia Hall and Jean Wiecha analyze six out-of-school time (OST) models using best practices to support physical activity and healthy living, in alignment with the Healthy Eating and Physical Activity (HEPA) standards adopted by NAA in April of 2011.
8 Things to Remember When Integrating STEM
Tuesday, 03 June 2014 00:00Feeling like integrating STEM into your current curriculum is an unsolvable equation? STEM doesn't have to intimidate or overwhelm you. It's an essential component of every afterschool program, so here are 8 tips to help you start the process.
My Principal Matters Resource Guide
Thursday, 29 May 2014 14:35NAA believe principals play a crucial role in the success of afterschool programs, and this starts with a positive principal/afterschool relationship. That's why we've designed this resource guide where you will find all the tools and links shared throughout 'My Principal Matters' day along with a few extras. Please use this guide as a reference for fostering relationships between principals and staff as well as for program success development.
7 Tips to Positive Behavior
Monday, 19 May 2014 00:00Positive behavior begins and ends with relationships—not with the rules. While systems and guidelines can provide structure for young people, cultivating an environment of meaningful connections between staff and youth creates a culture where positive behavior is part of the ongoing learning and development of youth.
Get a Jump on Summer Program Planning: 6 Ideas to Try!
Friday, 16 May 2014 04:15Summer is a great time to educate kids about healthy lifestyles, role model the behaviors ourselves, and cultivate environments that make it easier for kids to make healthier choices. An engaging summer is also essential! To get the most out of your summer program this year, try these tips from the professionals of the Alliance for a Healthier Generation, and keep your kids healthy and learning.
Leadership at the Movies - Part 2
Thursday, 08 May 2014 06:33What does it take to be an effective leader? Last week, we offered the first five principles of Bill Stanczykiewicz’s 2014 NAA Annual Convention presentation that revealed the essential characteristics of leadership. Here are the next steps to completing that transformation.
Integrating Technology and Learning
Wednesday, 30 April 2014 00:00Listen in as Gina Warner, NAA executive director, and Pam Simon, Fidgets2Widgets co-founder and director, chat about out-of-school time programs as great places for combining technology and learning.
10 Ways to Coach Toward Youth Program Quality
Monday, 28 April 2014 00:00Quality is certainly on the forefront of afterschool/youth development programs across the country. Whether you are using a formal assessment tool for measuring Youth Program Quality or not, I believe all youth workers should have a concept of what quality looks like and ways to build quality into our programs. You can be an important coach to support your staff in growing their capacity towards recognizing and incorporating youth program quality.
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