Tips on How to Recognize Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week

To celebrate Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week, the National Afterschool Association has provided suggestions on how caregivers and children can acknowledge afterschool professionals who are making a difference in their lives.

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The week, which runs from April 20 to 24, is intended to be a time to recognize, appreciate, and advocate for those who work with young people during out-of-school hours. 

According to the National Afterschool Association, an estimated 10 million young people participate in afterschool programs annually that are staffed by more than 850,000 afterschool professionals, many of whom are often not recognized or appreciated for their work.

Research shows that afterschool programs run by skilled professionals result in increased social-emotional skills, school attendance, and academic performance.

The National Afterschool Association has recommended some ways to show appreciation for afterschool professionals:

• Write on social media: “Research shows that afterschool professionals make a profound difference in the lives of young people. #heartofafterschool”

• Give a hand-written card from you or your child to the afterschool professionals you know.

• Send an email to an afterschool professional’s supervisor describing why that person is appreciated. 

• Make healthy treats for the staff at your afterschool program.

For more information on Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week, visit the National Afterschool Association’s website.