Assets - developing healthy youth
Assets give kids what they need to succeed
Through quality social research the Search Institute has identified 40 positive building blocks critical to the healthy development of young people. These developmental assets consist of positive experiences, opportunities and relationships that enhance the health, well being and self-esteem of children and youth.
Principles of asset building
- All children and youth need assets
- Relationships are key - it is crucial to build positive relationships with young people
- Community-wide collaboration with create the greatest impact
- Everyone can build assets
Why are assets important
- Helps young people make healthy decisions and choices in their lives
- Can lead to engagement in positive behaviours such as school success and academic achievement
- Decreased likeihood of involvment in high risk behaviours such as violence, school failure, and drug use
Strathcona County's committment
- Through the Kids Count initiative we work with the community to create an awareness of asset building to support the health and well-being of young people
- We provide information and presentations on assets to community groups, schools, or businesses
- Our programs and services are committed to the principles of asset building
Ways to show kids you care
- Look them in the eye
- Learn their names
- Contribute to their collections
- Admit when you make a mistake
- Let them make mistakes
- Encourage them to help others
- Make decisions together
- Give respect to get respect
Children and youth celebrated positive adult role models who helped build assets with the High Five Awards.
Further information
780-464-4044
familyandcommunity@strathcona.ab.ca
Last updated: Thursday, August 05, 2010
Page ID: 2543