A process which prepares young people ages 10 - 14 to meet the challenges of adolescence and adulthood through coordinated, progressive services of activities and experiences which help them to become socially, morally, emotionally, physically, and cognitively competent. Positive youth development focuses on building youth assets and is the responsibility of communities, families, schools, programs and activities. (Adapted from the National Collaboration for Youth Members)
Drawing from rich research, POST (Partners in Out-of-School Time) and its collaborators have identified the following guiding principles of positive youth development. We believe communities, families, schools, programs, and activities dedicated to enhancing the positive development of youth will:
- Understand and take into account the unique developmental stages and challenges that youth go through as they move from childhood into adulthood.
- Recognize, value and respond to the diverse backgrounds, abilities and experiences of young people.
- Ensure opportunities for youth to take on meaningful roles that involve responsibility and leadership, engage their skills and talents, and provide genuine youth ownership and involvement in program and policy development in their communities.
- Provide opportunities for youth participation in activities that foster development of physical competency.
- Help youth develop empathy and sensitivity through the experience of caring, trusting relationships with their peers and with committed adults.
- Provide boundaries, structure, and clear limits for youth.
- Provide activities that are interesting and meaningful to youth and support self-exploration in the development of personal talents and life skills.
- Ensure that youth have opportunities through work, community service, and program activities to develop a personal sense of purpose and a positive view of their individual future.
- Value professionals working with youth and ensure ongoing training and professional growth opportunities for those professionals.
- Ensure that families, communities, schools and programs work together to develop and sustain positive youth initiatives with long-term goals.
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