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The National Afterschool Association is celebrating Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week in late April to recognize those who work with young people during out-of-school hours.

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The week – which runs from April 21 to 25 – will be marked by celebrations, public relations, and advocacy efforts that encourage appreciation and support for afterschool professionals.

According to the National Afterschool Association, approximately 7.8 million young people participate in afterschool programs annually in the United States. More than 850,000 afterschool professionals work with children during out-of-school hours but, the association notes, they are often not recognized or appreciated for their work.

Research shows that afterschool programs result in increased social-emotional skills, school attendance, and academic performance, the association said. 

The association developed articles, flyers, and graphics in a press kit as part of its Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week celebration. Its suggestions on how to show appreciation during the week include: 

• Posting on social media about how research shows that afterschool professionals make an impact on the lives of young people
• Giving a hand-written card to the afterschool professionals who work with your child
• Sending an email to an afterschool professional’s supervisor to describe why they are appreciated
• Making healthy or non-food treats for the staff at your child’s afterschool program

For more information, visit the National Afterschool Association’s website celebrating Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week.