Sustaining the social emotional learning and physical activity of underserved youth in afterschool programs: The role of the social-motivational climate

This study examined the sustainability of "Connect through PLAY", a social-motivational climate physical activity (PA) intervention designed to promote youth PA and social-emotional learning (SEL) in underserved afterschool programs (ASPs). Using a mixed-methods approach, 25 youth and two ASP staff were assessed over 16 wk, with follow-up data collected two months post-intervention. Daily moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) was measured via 7-day accelerometers, and systematic observations captured youth's behavior and social-motivational climate during the ASP hours. Semi-structured interviews examined youth and staff perspectives regarding the impact of the intervention on youth PA, SEL, and social connections. Results showed significant increases in MVPA and sustained improvements in youth-peer and youth-staff interactions at the two-month follow-up. The interviews provide a rich account of youth experiences within the Connect program for promoting SEL and positive relationships. The study highlights the long-term impact of fostering a positive social-motivational climate on enhancing youth PA and SEL.