This course includes how to get started in YoungStar (if you have never participated before), the various options for completing a rating, as well as how you can receive free coaching and other support services to help you reach your quality improvement goals. For providers already participating in YoungStar, this course will review the process and criteria to improve quality and advance in rating.

“Introduction to the School-Age Care Profession is available on demand through University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. This on-demand class means that you can register at any time and begin your work immediately. This foundational course introduces the core principles of working with school-age children in group or family childcare settings. Participants explore the value of Out-of-School Time (OST) programs, key philosophies, and the goals of high-quality care. The course also covers relevant regulations and provider responsibilities. Format: Self-paced, non-credit training”

This course introduces trauma-informed practices and explores how trauma affects child behavior and development. Participants learn strategies to create safe, supportive environments that promote resilience in Out-of-School Time (OST) programs.

This course explores the foundations of Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) as it relates to the Positive Youth Development Framework and its benefits for both youth and adults. Participants will learn how to integrate SEL practices into Out-of-School Time (OST) programs and provides practical strategies for fostering emotional intelligence and inclusion.

This course guides school-age program staff in developing and evaluating meaningful child and group outcomes. Participants will learn how to create SMARTIE-aligned goals, design activities that support those goals, and assess progress through effective documentation. The course emphasizes intentional planning and outcome-based programming to enhance child development in Out-of-School Time (OST) programs.