While compassion for children is critically important to the success of all after school programs, caring alone is not enough. Designing and administering quality out-of-school time (OST) experiences requires a substantial base of technical knowledge acquired through training and continual professional development of program staff.
Administrators, instructors, coaches, advisors and mentors must have specific knowledge in core competencies if they are to offer quality experiences:
- Safety - How to provide for the safety and security of our children when they are involved in a variety of activities in a variety of settings. This requires the ability to create a safe environment and to respond with first aid, CPR or access to first responders if needed.
- Child and adolescent development - Providers need a basic understanding of child and youth development and how to relate to children at different ages. Socially, physically, emotionally and cognitively, children are different at every age and providers need to recognize what is typical behavior and how to provide programs appropriate for each stage of development.
- Group guidance - The ability to provide group guidance and manage group activities is a specialized body of knowledge. Activities such as team sports, group projects and arts and crafts teach children how to relate to each other and how to solve problems together. OST providers must be able to stage these activities in safe, productive settings.
- Academic reinforcement - OST programs and activities can help to reinforce school curriculums and further a child's development of cognitive skills. Taking part in many different activities, from producing a play to baking cookies for senior citizens, provides experiences that can reinforce learning experiences in school.
- Cultural competence - OST providers must be able to meet the challenge of working with different cultures and languages, a broad range of socioeconomic situations and children and youth with special needs.
Basic School-Age Care (BSAC)
This training provides a basic overview of school-age care and is required for licensing. It is offered by Child Care Resources Inc. BSAC is strongly recommended for all who work with children and youth in licensed or unlicensed out-of-school time programs and activities. The North Carolina General Statutes mandates BSAC training for all school-age professionals who operate a licensed program. This seven-hour workshop addresses elements of quality care, child development, positive guidance, appropriate activities, environmental design, health/safety/nutrition, and North Carolina Child Care Regulations.
CPR & First Aid are critical competencies for out-of-school time program staff because emergency situations do occur. American Red Cross/ Greater Carolinas Chapter offers a variety of services to help our community become a better place. For Basic First Aid and CPR training contact Vickie Weathers at 704-347-8214 or go to www.redcrosshelps.org.
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