Positive Skills and Beliefs
Most youth who attend a 21st CCLC program believe that participating has helped them to develop social and personal skills. Based on a survey of all 4th through 8th grade participants, 71% of youth agree or mostly agree that it has helped them to make new friends and 67% say it has helped them feel good about themselves. xviii
National research backs up these results. Research shows that children who participate in out-of-school time programs show a significant improvement in their perceptions of themselves, improved positive social behavior, and decreased problem behaviors.xix
xviii American Institutes for Research (2014). Statewide Program Evaluation of RI 21st CCLC Program.
xix Durlak, J.A., et. al. (2010). “A Meta-Analysis of After-School Programs That Seek to Promote Personal and Social Skills in Children and Adolescents.” American Journal of Community Psychology.
