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Inside Out-of-School Time hosted by the 21st CCLC NTAC
Each month, members of the 21st CCLC NTAC team have opportunities to conduct interviews with out-of-school time practitioners and subject matter experts in a range of roles. Listen and learn about strategies and best practices that will help your Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) Program succeed!
Inside Out-of-School Time hosted by the 21st CCLC NTAC
More Than Summer Fun: How Parks & Recreation Strengthens Youth Development
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In Episode 9 of Inside Out-of-School Time, host Karin Wolfe dives into how parks and recreation programs play a powerful — and often overlooked — role in youth development. She’s joined by Chad Norton, deputy director of the Wellesley Recreation Department in Massachusetts. In Part 1 of the two-part conversation, Karin and Chad explore how recreation programs support social-emotional growth, behavioral development, and a comprehensive learning approach.
Chad also shares how summer camps and recreation programs operate in the “in-between spaces” — before school, after school, on weekends, and during the summer — and why those moments are critical for building trust, connection, and essential life skills. This episode highlights the natural alignment between parks and recreation departments, OST programs, and 21st CCLC initiatives, setting the stage for deeper collaboration across systems that serve young people.