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'~ ASSET 3: Parent Communication Kids have frequent, in-depth conversations with <br /> their parents on a variety of topics. Parents take the time to talk seriously with <br /> their children. <br /> 43% have this asset in their lives <br /> <br /> (This type of communication is adult-initiated, and many parents do not know how to be leaders in this area. <br /> The content of the conversations is less important than the process of talking seriously together.) <br /> <br /> Ideas for building this asset: <br /> <br /> · AT HOME <br /> Parents can regularly initiate conversations with their kids using questions, not challenges. They can be sure <br /> to respect kids' opinions, never labeling their statements as stupid, silly, childish or wrong. <br /> <br /> Parents can spend individual time alone with each of their children. Take a day to shop or drive in the country. <br /> Open the opportunity to talk about anything that may come up. <br /> <br /> · AT SCHOOL <br /> Teachers can help children learn how to express their feelings in conversations and discussions. Schools <br /> can offer opportunities for kids to learn to discuss a variety of topics with others. <br /> <br /> · IN THE COMMUNITY <br /> Churches and community organizations can sponsor discussion groups for parents and teens. An educational <br /> component can be provided to help families learn to express opinions and feelings in a non-judgmental and <br /> non-threatening way. <br /> <br />ASSET 4: Other Adult Resources Kids have other adults besides their parents they <br />can turn to for advice and support. <br />49% have this asset in their lives <br /> <br />(This type of communication is generally youth-initiated, and many adults do not know how to be available <br />and/or how to respond.) <br /> <br />Ideas for building this asset: <br /> <br />· AT HOME <br />Parents can give their kids opportunities to spend time with positive adults. These adults might be extended <br />family members, coaches, neighbors, youth ministers, etc. <br /> <br />· AT SCHOOL <br />School officials can require that all adults who interact with kids create asset-building plans (ways in <br />which they will work to build assets in the youth with whom they work). <br /> <br />School officials can require that all coaches employed by the district qualify for certification through <br />a program which focuses on positive youth development. <br /> <br />· IN THE COMMUNITY <br />Since our mobile society has created distance among extended family members, teachers, counselors, <br />coaches, pastors, youth ministers, and adult friends and neighbors can be informed and/or trained and <br />motivated to provide this support. <br /> <br />All coaches, professional or volunteer, who interact with kids can be required to qualify for <br />certification through a program which focuses on positive youth development. <br /> <br />'~ASSET 5: Other Adult Communication Kids have frequent, in-depth conversations <br /> with adults who are not their parents. <br /> 28% have this asset in their lives <br /> <br /> (This type of communicat/on is adult-initiated. Adults need training, time and interest to do it well. Kids must <br /> be treated as equals in the discussion. They must be trusted, valued and listened to. Adults must not be <br /> judgmental, dismissive or condescend/ng.) <br /> <br /> Ideas for building this asset: <br /> <br /> · AT HOME <br /> Parents can include their kids in conversations they have with other adults when it is appropriate. <br /> <br /> <br />