“Three Ways to Get Youth Connected”
Article by Abby Crane
Description:
1. Universal Opportunity. This means making sure that all youth have the opportunity to, not only participate in extracurricular programs, but also to find the program that fits them best. The first recommendation is to make the youth aware of what is available. One idea is a kid’s section in a local/regional newspaper listing programs and how to contact them.
Then there needs to be financial aide and outreach programs to youth who would be less likely to participate, due to financial stress and/or transportation confines. Also, programs need to be created that are conducive to the needs of the mentally and physically disabled.
2. Building Relationships within Programs. A community’s existing youth programs need to foster the growth of relationships. First, between the instructors or leaders of the programs with the youth they are working with. The adults in charge need to have a vested interest in their futures, helping them learn how to set and reach goals.
These relationships should set a precedent for how they relate to others, teaching them how to develop lasting friendships among their own peers.
3. Building Relationships in the Home. Parents are the most influential people in their child’s life, and because of this it is important that they are active in it. Parents should learn how to support their child’s endeavors and teach them to see them through to completion. They’ll thank you for it.
Funding for Academic Year: 2004