There has been plenty of research linking brain breaks to higher productivity among adults in the workplace, but recent studies (and observation during virtual learning) show that elementary school students also need regular, short breaks to move around, interact, and make something to be able to better focus on their academic lessons. These quick brain pauses peppered throughout the day aren’t … [Read more...] about Take 5: Brain Breaks Help with Focus at Any Age
Do Students Learn Better in Print or on Screen?
There is no mistake that the pandemic has forever changed the landscape of how our young people learn and study, but is the prevalence and accessibility of online publications helping or hindering literacy progress for elementary school students? Several studies have been conducted since mid-2020 to assess the effectiveness of screen versus print reading, and the research results indicate the … [Read more...] about Do Students Learn Better in Print or on Screen?
#GivingTuesday and Lights On Wrap-Up
If you’ve been following our social media posts lately (on Facebook and Twitter, in particular), you’ve probably noticed that we’ve been talking up Giving Tuesday – the Tuesday after Thanksgiving when you’re encouraged to donate to nonprofits or others that are working to make a positive difference in the world. Yes, it’s true, AYS is a nonprofit! That’s still surprising to some, but we do … [Read more...] about #GivingTuesday and Lights On Wrap-Up
Arts for Learning apprentices help combat the ‘summer slide’
Last week, we, and hundreds of others across the country, celebrated National Summer Learning Day. Of course, for Camp AYS, every summer day is dedicated to continued learning, and combatting the so-called “summer slide” – the tendency for students, especially those from low-income families, to lose some of the achievement gains they made during the previous school year. Among the great … [Read more...] about Arts for Learning apprentices help combat the ‘summer slide’
Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week – Denise Smeltzer
Who: Denise Smeltzer, program director at Pittsboro Elementary When: 18 years (16 years as program director) Favorite color: Blue, because it’s a calming color Favorite season: Spring, because it’s new every year Favorite ice cream: Kroger brand Death by Chocolate Q: What has been the most rewarding aspect of working with AYS? A: Seeing the kids grow and change; seeing … [Read more...] about Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week – Denise Smeltzer
