Listening to diverse opinions can help everyone move ahead
As young people grow older, they quickly sense where
they are wanted and where they aren’t. Do the children and young people around you have
opportunities to participate, serve, lead, and make decisions within the
community? Do these same young people feel the community supports children and
youth? If the answer to these questions is “not always” or “not enough,” it may
be time to make some changes. After all, remember how you felt when you were a child and the adults around you didn’t listen or give you credit for your
opinions? Everyone deserves a voice! Community Values Children and Youth is Asset 7 of Search Institute’s 40 Developmental Assets, the
qualities, experiences, and relationships that help young people grow up
healthy, caring, and responsible.
Here are the facts
Research shows that children and youth who
perceive that adults in the community value young people are more likely to
grow up healthy, exhibit leadership, value diversity, and succeed in school.
Only 22 percent of young people, ages 11–18, perceive that adults in the
community value their opinions and input, according to Search Institute
surveys. Set a goal to create an environment in which you and other adults take
time to listen to young people, spend time with them, and give credit to their
opinions.
Tips for building this asset
Young people’s perceptions can tell you a
lot about your community and what needs to happen so they feel the community
values them. Ask young people what they think. Acknowledge their opinions, even
if you don’t agree. Work together to turn your community into a place that
values its young people.
Also
try this
In your home and family:
Ask your child’s opinion about something in the news. Listen carefully, without
interrupting. Discuss the topic (agreeing to disagree, if necessary).
In your neighborhood and community: Serve on a community committee and seek out young people’s feedback
about specific issues. Let them know you greatly appreciate their presence and
participation. Encourage civic groups to include young people in critical
conversations.
In your school or youth program: Engage the young people in your school or program as leaders and
decision makers. Get their input on school board or program directors’
decisions. Invite them to discuss their experiences with the school board or
program directors.
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