For the City-Times

As spring arrives, spirits are lifted and we find hope in flowers blooming and birds singing.   Our continued efforts to build assets in youth, no matter the age, gives us hope as well as we watch them develop into mature, responsible adults.

This month, we will look at the third section of External Assets from Developmental Assets-Search-Institute: Boundaries and Expectations.

A family with realistic guidelines, a school that has rules and expectations clearly presented, neighbors who help parents in monitoring young people’s behaviors, and responsible adults who model positive behaviors all contribute to youth development from birth to adulthood.

If a youth has “best friends”, who model responsible behavior, it really helps.  If they don’t, it provides an opportunity for discussion on what is appropriate.

Teachers and parents as well as those who work with youth all encourage youth to do well.   Youths who don’t are not necessarily “bad” people, but do need to look at where their choices are taking them.   Ask them to tell you what they could have done differently.

Spring is a time of renewal.  We ask that all adults remember the words of Dr. Peter Benson who said, “all kids are our kids” and “relationships are the key.”  Our children are perennials on a long journey, just like us.  Take the time to shake of that long winter and rejuvenate yourself by paying special attention to the young people in your life and the positive effects you have upon them.

Enjoy the fresh flowers, birds, and kids.

Happy Spring and Asset Building

Mary Ann Krems, Portage County Alliance for Youth

Paul Vidas, President of Nvolved, Inc. (www.nvolved.com)

Check us out at www.pcayouth.org and like us on Facebook