“We can choose to build kids or we can choose to build prisons”

– Retired General Colin Powell.

Attended a Healthy Communities/Healthy Youth Conference in Batavia, New York, yesterday. Some thoughts related to the key note speaker's presentation.

We live in the most age-separated society ever. Think of what adults do when they approach young people, adults avert their eyes and don’t speak or acknowledge the kids. The non-verbal message received is one of rejection.

How many adults does it take to raise a child? In generations past, every child had several adults exerting influence, now many children have NO significant adult influence in their lives. The needs have not changed, they are just not being met!

The news media is about mayhem and problems with kids. Two-thirds of all news is negative. Positive language is needed. Kids need to hear supportive and encouraging commentary from adults.

How to spot a caring successful healthy kid? A recent study showed the following data:

Every young person had at least one caring adult at home
At least six adults know their name
Relationship is important to them
A faith commitment is an important part of their life
They make rational choices

The work of raising successful healthy kids is a work of a people. Development of adult to child relationships is important. Each adult should get to know at least six kids. Know the names of at least 12. TALK TO KIDS. Look them in the eyes, making eye contact and ask them relationship questions.

All it takes is CARING. Raising successful kids is a cultural issue. We must change the way a community thinks about its youth AND we must change the way a community behaves toward its youth. Schools, churches, industry and corporations…all these institutions can help.

Tag: hchy