Do you communicate with youth in a way that makes them feel supported and heard?  This interactive workshop introduces various communication techniques that help you build more supportive, youth-centered relationships.  Participants will learn how to ask more effective questions, to listen actively to youth, and offer youth encouragement rather than praise.

Tinkering is the intersection of science, art and technology. It is about using familiar materials in unfamiliar ways to create and “make” – individually or with others – something that has meaning to the tinkerer. Participants will (1) explore up to three tinkering activities adaptable to elementary age youth and (2) be able to articulate... Read more »

Afterschool Essentials is an accelerated half-year program that Vermont Afterschool offers FREE for afterschool staff working in licensed afterschool programs. This program covers a full range of topics, including school-age child development, program development, health and safety issues, and partnerships with families, inclusion and cultural diversity. The program content is delivered via face-to-face discussion and... Read more »

This four-part series is for leaders of licensed programs in the afterschool field in Vermont. The L.E.A.D. program will provide afterschool professionals with the tools to hone their strengths and develop new skills to take on more advanced leadership roles in the future. Participants will develop and improve their leadership skills, while enhancing their confidence... Read more »

Youth Thrive is an evidence-informed framework for relating to youth ages 9-24. Instead of a sole focus on limiting risk factors or maintaining a problem-free environment, Youth Thrive teaches youth work professionals and parents to recognize, support, and build on protective and promotive factors. Based in strengths-based and positive psychology, this approach can be used... Read more »