Making Out-of-School-Time Matter

A loosely connected set of providers, clients, sponsors, and intermediaries make up the local markets referred to as the out-of-school-time (OST) field. This field and the actors in it have been evolving in response to shifts in the economy, the growing demand for services associated with increased numbers of working mothers in the labor force, concerns over youth development or the lack thereof, and increased academic expectations for youth programs. This report presents the findings of a broad-ranging literature review intended to identify, frame, and assess relevant OST issues. Drawing on recent studies the authors provide an objective view of the politicized debate over the future of the field. They identify and address the level of demand for OST services, the effectiveness of offerings, what constitutes quality in OST programs, how to encourage participation, and how to build further community capacity. The report provides recommendations for improving the current debate over provision.