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The Compendium
The Compendium is a growing collection of ideas, projects, and activities that have proven successful during the ELP program. It’s designed to help educators and staff discover engaging ways to inspire learning, creativity, and teamwork. The Compendium is organized into four main sections: Active, STEM, Art & Design, and Classroom Layout, each filled with tried-and-true activities that encourage exploration, movement, and fun. Whether you’re planning a hands-on experiment, an art project, or a high-energy game, this resource is here to spark new ideas and keep programming fresh and exciting.
This section includes high-energy activities designed to get students moving, cooperating, and building teamwork skills. Games focus on communication, collaboration, and positive competition, helping students develop confidence and social skills while staying active. These activities are ideal for large groups and for fostering a sense of belonging through shared play.
STEM activities encourage curiosity, experimentation, and problem-solving through hands-on projects rooted in science, technology, engineering, and math. Students explore how things work, test ideas, and engage in creative thinking. These activities promote inquiry-based learning and help build foundational skills such as observation, critical reasoning, and innovation.
Art & Design projects give students space to express creativity, imagination, and personal identity. Through drawing, painting, crafting, and building, students explore different materials and develop fine motor skills. These activities emphasize process over perfection, allowing every child to feel successful and discover joy in creating something new.
Cooking workshops introduce students to basic kitchen skills, simple recipes, and the fun of preparing food together. These activities blend creativity and practicality, teaching measurement, following instructions, and safe food practices. Students enjoy hands-on learning and take pride in making something they can enjoy and share.
Activities in this section help students build responsibility, empathy, and leadership skills. Students participate in group decision-making, practice problem-solving, and learn what it means to contribute to a positive community. These experiences empower students to take ownership, support peers, and understand their role within the ELP environment.
Mindfulness and reflection activities create space for students to slow down, reset, and check in with their feelings. Through simple breathing exercises, journaling, calm discussions, or sensory activities, students learn self-awareness and emotional regulation. These moments promote well-being and support a calmer, more grounded afterschool experience.
This section highlights ideas for organizing physical space to support student engagement, independence, and smooth transitions. Thoughtful room setups—such as stations, cozy corners, activity tables, and open movement areas—help create structure while giving students freedom to explore. A well-planned layout supports behavior, creativity, and accessibility for every learner.
Student-directed activities center on choice, voice, and self-expression. These activities allow students to guide their own learning, pick their projects, and explore their interests. Staff act as facilitators rather than leaders, giving children the space to problem-solve, collaborate, and take ownership. This approach builds confidence and reinforces that ELP is a place where student ideas truly matter.
his section highlights ideas for organizing physical space to support student engagement, independence, and smooth transitions. Thoughtful room setups—such as stations, cozy corners, activity tables, and open movement areas—help create structure while giving students freedom to explore. A well-planned layout supports behavior, creativity, and accessibility for every learner.