Critical Hours
The Critical Hours Task Group brings together organizations that provide programming for children outside of school hours. This includes homework clubs, after school programs, summer camps, recreation programs, youth drop-in, and others.
Mandate
To ensure that Middle Years children (ages 6-12) in Ottawa have equitable access to high-quality programs and supports grounded in the Critical Hours Framework. The Task Group works collectively to strengthen environments where children can learn, connect, and thrive through three core pillars:
- Safe Spaces
- Supportive Relationships
- Skill Development
The 3 Pillars of Critical Hours Programming
Critical hours programs skill development, safe & supported spaces, and positive relationships for children and youth. These programs happen in the hours outside of school. Click to access free training videos!
Summer Literacy (Lit Kit)
Our Summer Literacy program aims to promote literacy for children and youth while they are on summer break, maintaining their engagement in their education. Click to access the Lit Kit!
150 Hours of Programming
The Ottawa Child & Youth Initiative Critical Hours Task Group developed a resource tool called 150 Days of Programming to aid frontline workers of critical-hours programs in easily integrating quality, skill-building activities into their programming. You can view this resource at criticalhours.ca.
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