Everyone Can Build Assets!
Early Years in the Waterloo Region


Asset DevelopmentEarly Years Asset Development, photo of Children

The Asset Framework

Researchers at the Minneapolis based Search Institute have surveyed more than 2.2 million young people in Canada and the United States since 1989 to see what they need to succeed. Through this research they found 40 developmental assets that are important to helping children grow up healthy, responsible and caring. These assets form the foundation children need to make healthy choices and to succeed in life. The more assets your kids have, the stronger this foundation will be.

40 Developmental Assets

40 Developmental Assets for Early Childhood

By focusing on children's developmental needs, you can tap into and build upon the uniqueness of your kids. Here are eight basic developmental needs, based on the developmental assets, which all children need from adults taking care of them.

Support
Parents who show that they love their children and will stand by them no matter what.

Empowerment
Parents who make it clear that children are valued and valuable for whom they truly are.

Boundaries and Expectations
Parents who have high yet realistic expectations for their children, and who set and uphold clear limits for their behaviour

Constructive Use of Time
Parents who help their children balance school, activities time with friends and time at home.

Commitment to Learning
Parents who encourage and model a love of learning

Positive Values
Parents who talk about and model basic values such as honesty, trust, and responsibility.

Social Competencies
Parents who instill in their children an interest in and comfort with other people, and who help them develop strong skills to relate respectfully to everyone and show consideration for the rights of others.

Positive Identity
Parents who nurture their children's self esteem, feeling of control over their lives, and a sense of hope.

Click on the link below to find more practical parent ideas to strengthen your relationships with your own children as well as other children whose lives you touch.

www.mvparents.com

"The developmental asset framework gives parents a proven practical approach to parenting...you will create a positive home atmosphere where both you and your children will thrive." Jolene Roehlkepartain

Other resource links:

2 Pass the Torch www.2passthetorch.com
Abundant Assets www.abundantassets.org
The Search Institute www.search-institute.org
Thrive Canada www.thrivecanada.ca




 
Early Years in the Waterloo Region