School’s Out California: An Out of School Time Program Guide, California Department of Education (PDF)

URL: https://www.cde.ca.gov/sp/cd/re/documents/schoolsout2014.pdf

Research shows that the time students have outside of the regular school day is critical to academic achievement. Before and after school programs offer a range of opportunities for recreational and academically enriching activities that are developmentally appropriate. The intent of this document is to guide programs as they expand activities to promote the skill development of school-age children. Research-based strategies are offered throughout the guide, and they can be used to support all school-age children in California as they participate in a range of activities—including those that support the development of academic skills, character, and other cognitive and social–emotional capabilities. It includes a section on serving children with special needs.