Strengthening Systems and Supports to Build Positive Social-Emotional Climates in Out-of-School Time

From December 2018 through May 2019, the National Center on Afterschool and Summer Enrichment facilitated a peer learning group (PLG) on social-emotional learning (SEL) in out-of-school time for 10 state teams.

This brief, Strengthening Systems and Supports to Build Positive Social-Emotional Climates in Out-of-School Time, highlights best prac­tices that states learned about and shared, related to the following:

The connection of SEL to healthy de­velopment and success in school, work, and life Strengths-based, healing-centered, and culturally responsive social-emotional models that build on an understand­ing of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and trauma-informed practice. Evidence-based supports for building a positive social-emotional climate Mental health for children and youth and mental health consultation

Each state assembled a cross-sector team, which typically included staff from their Child Care and Development Fund Lead Agency, state afterschool network, Depart­ment of Education, school districts, 21st Century Community Learning Centers, and providers. Each team participated in five PLG sessions, meeting in between sessions to build an SEL action plan.