The 16 Principles of Effectiveness

Listed below are Laurie Ollhoff's 16 principles of effectiveness for SAC programs. How many of them are seen in your program?

1. SAC time is valued as the child's time; their needs and ideas drive the program.
2. SAC programs grow and evolve with kids-children have an ever-changing role and purpose in the program.
3. Intentionality is the key to adult-child programming.
4. SAC programming porvides balance in a child's day and life.
5. The role of adults is to facilitate rather than direct.
6. In SAC - movement is life, learning and living.
7. SAC sites are miniature societies.
8. SAC has access to the appropriate facilities and equipment allowing for flexibility and enrichment in programming.
9. Parents are cherished partners.
10. SAC is the link to education, families and communities.
11. SAC is a social setting - social skills are taught and practiced.
12. Individual choice and community building are equally important.
13. SAC management and budget are devoted to supporting staff and program standards.
14. Issues of diversity and sensitivity are championed by staff and children.
15. Staff's individual gifts and talents are a celebrated part of the program.
16. The space utilized is kid friendly.

From: Best Practicies: Guidelines for School-Age Programs by Michael Ashcraft