School’s Out but the Learning Doesn’t Stop: Out-of-School Time Programs

When the bell rings at the end of the school day, classes may be over. But for young students who participate in out-of-school time (OST) programs, learning does not stop. It simply continues in a different setting, often within a local park, recreation, or community center. OST programs include supervised, structured activities scheduled either before or after school or during vacations when school is not in session. The content and focus of these programs are age appropriate and can be tailored to children in elementary, middle, or high school. High quality OST programs can provide opportunities for enrichment in the arts, playing organized sports, exploring the outdoors, engaging in work-based learning, or helping students with academics and college readiness.

Although they may differ in structure, OST programs share a common goal of providing young people with opportunities for continued learning and social-emotional growth. Research has shown that participation in OST programs can lead to improved grades for students, lower school absenteeism, increased high school graduation rates, and a reduced likelihood that a student will engage in behaviors such as substance abuse. These programs provide a safe space where children and adolescents can socialize with their peers while expanding their learning. Brenda Wiggins, Academic Program Co-Coordinator of the Recreation Management program within the School of Sport, Recreation, and Tourism Management at George Mason University, recently discussed the benefits of OST programs held in parks, recreation facilities, and community centers.

OST programs have an important role in supporting student learning and health.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) cites the importance of out-of-school time programs in supporting student learning and health. CDC states that before and after-school programs are part of a “comprehensive approach to increasing physical education and physical activity.” Along these lines, it is not unheard of for a pediatrician during a “well-child” care visit to write out a prescription ordering a child to “go outside and play.” Doctors’ orders of this nature signal how important it is for children to engage in activities that support their physical, mental, and emotional health—the kind of activities that are available at many OST programs housed in parks and recreation centers.

A majority of park and recreation agencies conduct OST programs.

According to a 2021 report released by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), more than four in five park and recreation agencies offer OST programs. A majority are focused on “traditional” before or after-school activities that include fitness, free play, and organized sports; enrichment in art, music, and cultural heritage; and outdoor experiences that foster a greater appreciation of the environment and nature.

OST Programs in STEM

Outside the traditional after-school activities, a substantial number are focused on academic enrichment. 64% of parks and recreation agencies conduct OST programs focused on science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM). These programs are structured to include STEM activities appropriate for children at all grade levels and they encourage students to participate in “hands-on” experiential learning. Researchers say that high-quality after-school STEM programs can instill scientific thinking skills in young learners and inspire them to delve more deeply into science.

Partnerships between communities and nonprofit organizations have led to the creation of specialized STEM programs that serve under-represented groups including girls, racial and ethnic populations, students from economically disadvantaged families, and other marginalized groups. Programs such as these can help nurture a student’s interest in STEM by making them feel more confident in their ability to learn STEM subjects. In the absence of such OST programs, many students might be denied the opportunity to explore their interests and inherent abilities in STEM.

Some OST Programs Can Help Linguistically Diverse Learners

OST activities tailored to helping linguistically diverse learners become proficient in language acquisition are another example of how before and after-school programs can benefit children academically. Programs that are geared towards linguistically diverse learners usually take place within a more relaxed setting where the child does not feel they are being evaluated or graded on their proficiency in the language. The Afterschool Alliance, an organization created to expand access to affordable after-school and summer learning opportunities nationwide, maintains that schools often struggle to incorporate English language instruction into the regular school day. Quality after-school language acquisition programs can offer greater flexibility compared with a more rigid school-based curriculum. This, in turn, can take the pressure out of learning and help students achieve greater language proficiency.

Coding and eSports combine academics and recreation in OST programs.

Some OST programs have found unique ways to combine academics with recreation. Among these are programs that teach introductory coding which can help young students develop computational thinking and digital literacy skills while allowing them the creativity to experiment with the visual design and animation aspects of software programs. In addition, the surge in popularity of eSports has resulted in the creation of OST programs that provide opportunities for young people to participate in online video gaming, an activity which enhances critical thinking and analytical skills, both of which are essential to achieving academic success in K-12 education.

Social-Emotional Learning

High-quality OST programs are instrumental in encouraging healthy behaviors in young people and supporting the development of their social-emotional learning skills needed for academic success. These programs are staffed by professionals who can serve as role models and mentors. These individuals can help children develop confidence and the ability to establish social relationships with their peers. This can improve a child’s overall well-being and facilitate the likelihood of better academic outcomes.

To learn more about degree offerings in the Recreation Management program within George Mason University’s School of Sport, Recreation, and Tourism Management, please visit the program website.