Supporting OST Staff Social and Emotional Learning
Using Mindfulness-Based Professional Development
By Helen Lee, Rachael Hocevar, & Janelle Salcedo
Youth development practitioners (YDPs)—adults who work with young people in out-of-school time (OST) settings—play a vital role in youth social and emotional learning (SEL). Through mentoring and facilitating programs, YDPs foster safe and supportive spaces where youth can explore their identities, form healthy relationships with other young people and adults, and practice essential life skills such as self-regulation and making responsible decisions (Christensen et al., 2023; Durlak et al., 2010; Durlak & Weissberg, 2007; Hirsch, 2005; Hurd & Deutsch, 2017).
