Ingrid A. Nelson: Why Afterschool Matters

Excerpt

Children are the most important thing for our future. For those of us with children, their educational opportunities are one of the most important things we manage, but we also closely examine their extracurricular opportunities. There has been extensive research related to outcomes of children involved in extracurricular activities, across various domains. There have been limitations to that research though, particularly with consideration for minorities. As a coach, practitioner of psychology and ABA, parent, and advocate for children, I want to better understand the dynamics of a successful extracurricular program, particularly for children who are marginalized. These considerations will lead to a better prepared and, hopefully, successful work force, as well as independent thinkers and doers to improve other aspects of our world. …