Report: Out-of-School Programs are Critical for Youth Wellbeing

The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine released a new report, “The Future of Youth Development: Building Systems & Strengthening Programs”, emphasizing the critical role of out-of-school programs, such as after-school and summer programs, in supporting the health, development, and well-being of children and youth. The report concludes that these programs provide essential benefits, especially for young people from underserved communities, but are often underfunded, unevenly available, and overlooked in public policy. The authors call for expanded investment and coordination to ensure that all children have access to high-quality, supportive out-of-school time (OST) programs.

The report outlines a wide range of benefits provided by OST programs, including improved academic achievement, stronger social-emotional skills, better physical and mental health, and reduced risk behaviors. It also highlights how these programs offer safe, structured environments during non-school hours, times when children are at higher risk for exposure to harm, especially in low-income or high-need neighborhoods. Importantly, the report finds that programs are most effective when they are consistent, inclusive, and culturally responsive.

Despite their proven value, access to OST programs is limited. Barriers include insufficient funding, transportation challenges, workforce shortages, and uneven quality standards across communities. The report stresses that rural areas, low-income families, and children of color are most likely to lack access to enriching out-of-school experiences. The authors also highlight the need for stronger partnerships across education, public health, and community sectors to improve coordination and sustainability of these programs.

For behavioral health and youth policy, this report reinforces the importance of OST programs as protective environments that support mental wellness, resilience, and positive identity development. Goals to improve OST programs included:

• Support funding stability for OST programs.
• Invest in intermediary organizations, like nonprofits or after-school networks.
• Advance program quality efforts.
• Create career pathways for youth development practitioners.
• Broaden and improve understanding of OST time programs and participation to better assess outcomes.

Policymakers are urged to treat OST programming as a core component of youth development and community health—not a luxury. Expanding access to quality programs can reduce inequities, prevent behavioral health issues, and create pathways for lifelong success.