Asset Building Ideas for Recreation Leaders

Each day brings new experiences in the life of a child as he or she learns new things.  As children face the excitement and the challenges of new activities they look to you, the care taking adults, for guidance, stability and structure in a nurturing environment.  By focusing on building the 40 developmental assets you can help children grow in a healthy and balanced direction while contributing to the foundation they need in order to be successful in their future.

Here are some suggestions on how to be an asset builder for the children in your out-of-school time program:

Ø Learn every child's name, and make an effort to give each child one on one attention.

Ø Smile often and greet each child when they arrive, it helps to make them feel welcomed.

Ø Keep kids physically safe as well as emotionally safe.  Create an environment where children feel comfortable and valued.

Ø        Insist that everyone treat one another with respect.

Ø        Create appropriate boundaries and rules and stick to them.

Ø        Help to develop leadership skills in young people.

Ø        Find ways each child can participate even if he or she is not particularly skilled in that activity.

Ø        When handling disputes or arguments between young people encourage peaceful conflict resolution.

Ø        Catch kids doing things right.  Quickly praise their efforts; the best feedback is immediate and positive.  Violence is never an option.

Ø        Split up "cliques" by mixing up specific groups during activities.

Ø        Model the appropriate way to deal with emotions by staying patient and calm.

Ø        Respect and trust the young people you work with, they will most likely reciprocate your behavior.

Ø        Encourage children to try new activities, but don't force them.  Some children warm up to new things slower than others do.

Ø        When children do things you don't like or you disapprove of, tell them why you don't want them to act that way and what you would like them to do differently.

Ø        Challenge yourself to be the best leader you can, your impact on their lives is immeasurable.  Help to make a lasting impression with great memories that they can hold on to.

Ø      Be SAFE and have FUN!!!!!