OVERVIEW

Recreation and non-school skill development programs have an important role to play in the healthy development of children and youth. They can enhance self-esteem, improve academic performance, strengthen peer and family relationships, and reduce anti-social behaviors, depression and anxiety.

Quality opportunities outside of the classroom engage young people and involve them in activities that develop skills and abilities, provide peer and adult models, promote the development of positive values and relationships, and encourage a sense of competence and hope for the future.

Researchers at the Offord Centre for Child Studies have spent over two decades studying the benefits of recreation and skill development programs. Their innovative work has led to important changes in public policy and community programming across Canada and around the world.

What are the key elements of a quality recreation program? How do we ensure equal access to good quality programming for all children? How do we maximize participation for those who miss out on the benefits because of financial or family circumstances, background, location or disability? How do we promote high quality practices among organizations and grassroots community programs that work daily with limited resources to benefit youth? These are some of the questions our researchers are examining in their continuing efforts to improve the health and wellbeing of children.