Launch a Project
to Connect
Celebrate Success RFP Project
Step-by-step project guide for students to write a 'grant application' for their end-of-year celebration. Illustrated with selections from students in Philadelphia.
Connections: Schools, Parents and Communities
Children benefit significantly when programs build connections among schools, parents and communities.
Programs can benefit, too, by tapping new, often underutilized resources for afterschool education.
The Center for Afterschool Education provides professional development and technical assistance to help develop this component of your program. Set the wheels of collaboration in motion for children's success.
- Connecting with Schools
- Connecting with Parents
- Connecting with Communities
- Where to Learn More
- Tips on Building Relationships with Families and Organizations
Connecting with Families
Research confirms what educators know: Family involvement is critical for children. Afterschool is a great doorway for engaging with families to support child's learning and healthy development.
Families often connect more easily with afterschool. The setting is more relaxed than schools, with more opportunities for interaction. Pick-up times for younger children allow staff and parents to talk and get to know each other. Projects with older children and youth can often include a family component.
High-quality programs deliberately plan and actively build connections with families. Techniques include:
- Posting information on community events
- Facilitating referrals to helpful resources
- Creating informal support networks among parents and caregivers
- Drawing on families' skills and knowledge for the program
- Soliciting volunteers and help with fundraising
- Planning family time, such as cultural celebrations, movies, book groups or homework time
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