Briefing Paper prepared by NIOST for the Massachusetts Special Commission on After School and Out-of-School Time on engaging older youth.

How older youth spend their time during the out-of-school time hours is a primary issue for parents, youth development and education professionals, and policy-makers. Research suggests that teens are less likely to engage in risky behaviors when they are engaged in pro-social behaviors and participating in activities in environments where they feel respected and supported. It seems evident that participation in high-quality afterschool programs can be as beneficial to youth ages 13-17 as it is for traditional school-age participants.