The Complementary Learning Framework
HGSE's Harvard Family Research Project (HFRP)

Research points to the supportive role of families, early childhood programs, schools, out-of-school time programs and activities, higher education, health and social service agencies, libraries, museums, and other community-based institutions in children's learning. Harvard Family Research Project (HFRP) calls this array of supports complementary learning. Complementary learning is characterized by discrete linkages that work together to encourage consistent learning and developmental outcomes for children. These linkages should be continuously in place from birth through adolescence, but the composition and functions of this network will change over time as children mature.

School leaders at all levels can promote family involvement by thinking in terms of a Complementary Learning Framework and fostering partnerships between schools and nonschool supports. For example, HFRP recently conducted a research review and documented evaluated and promising practices in linking families and after school programs. Such linkages can also be a means of informing and engaging parents in children's schooling.

<visit the Complementary Learning website>