UANJumpstart2024

Technology is embedded in our and our students' everyday lives. But there are fears and concerns with tech. How can afterschool professionals address those fears and our digital realities? This interactive presentation will share policy examples and experiences from practice to help leaders evaluate and adjust their policies and how they incorporate technology into programming. It will also discuss items to include in strategic planning.

In a 2023 Pew Research poll, it was discovered that nearly nine out of 10 young people aged 14 to 25 regularly face mental health challenges. In this session, we will delve into strategies for identifying teenagers who may be struggling with their mental health, how to ask appropriate questions, and unraveling the complexities of the modern-day mental health crisis. While both mental health issues and emotional distress impact emotional well-being, they differ in duration, consistency, impact on daily functioning, associated symptoms, and the need for professional intervention. We'll exchange ideas, discuss the importance of early intervention, and explore how the culture within your schools can foster mental health support. Join us and get ready to discuss!

This session will focus on discussing how to take traditional afterschool enrichment activities to the next level, creating an experience your students won't forget. This workshop will have attendees focus not just on the "what" but the "how" for activities that are of high interest based on youth voices. We will look at strategies for youth retention & recruitment by learning how to survey youth & how to deepen positive relationships, meeting youth where they're at. Through group activities & discussion, attendees will enjoy creating activities that are non-traditional, and exciting, & keep youth coming back to your program for more.

Join us in an interactive workshop for adults that work with you to learn the fundamentals of Social & Emotional Learning (SEL) and the key benefits for both individuals and communities. Participants will be familiarized with Social and Emotional Learning in Practice: A Toolkit of Practical Strategies and Resources by the University of Minnesota. Explore activities that help foster socioemotional skills and learn about accommodations when implementing SEL to better meet the needs of all youth, particularly adolescents with disabilities or IEPs.