AFTER-SCHOOL CARE FOR CHILDREN - A RESILIENCE-BASED APPROACH

mis paper utilizes a resilience perspective and a review of research t o identify societal, community, family, and individual factors related to the after-school period that place many children at increased risk for poor developmental and behavioral outcomes. We define and discuss the importance of four key dimensions of childrens after-school exper iences: safety, developmental appropriateness, cultural relevance, and stability. We recommend that families and practitioners collaborate a nd include children in the decision making to create after-school care that is individualized. Whenever possible, after-school settings shou ld include opportunities for both enhancing academic achievement and h aving fun. While emphasizing that all children need appropriate after- school environments, we discuss the importance of assessment and of pl an development and monitoring when working with youths at risk for agg ressive behavior, impaired relationships with peers and adults, and po or performance in school.