Out-of-school time (OST) programs are a crucial component of child and youth development. They provide structured environments outside the traditional school day for young people to engage in meaningful activities, build relationships, and develop essential life skills. 

In 2002, the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine released Community Programs for Youth Development (the “Blue Book”), a foundational report on the role and state of OST programming throughout the country. Since then, OST programs have grown and evolved significantly, as has the research and evidence base. 

The Future of Youth Development: Building Systems and Strengthening Programs provides an updated look at OST programming in the U.S. This report examines the effectiveness of OST programs, identifies access and quality improvements, and outlines a future research agenda for the youth development field. 

The review of the evidence base found that the field of youth development has experienced a number of changes over the past two decades. OST programs have become increasingly varied in their settings, programming, and the demographics of children and youth served. There has been greater consideration of cultural responsiveness that has shifted what program quality looks like.  Also, while public and private OST funding has increased, so has the demand within communities. 

The report offers extensive recommendations for federal, state, and local policymakers; intermediaries, such as state afterschool networks, municipal agencies, and nonprofit organizations, that coordinate efforts among program providers; and funders. The recommendations focus on six key goals to better support OST programs: 

1. Supporting stable OST funding
2. Supporting local OST intermediaries
3. Advancing program quality
4. Supporting youth development practitioners
5. Broadening understanding of OST programs
6. Improving understanding of program outcomes 

The report also outlines gaps in research around OST programs and needs for further research focused on access and engagement, program quality, staff development, and more.