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Key points
- Trust and vulnerability are key in working with youth, requiring openness to mutual learning.
- Clear communication and planning can foster meaningful engagement with youth.
- Prioritize empathy and support to create environments where youth feel valued.
In our society, there's a common misconception that working with youth is a breeze. After all, most adults have been kids themselves, right? Wrong. Today's youth face a myriad of challenges and complexities that previous generations may not fully comprehend. To effectively engage with youth, it takes more than just good intentions; it requires thoughtfulness, skill, practice, and above all, trust and vulnerability.
As adults, we must recognize that our own experiences as children or parents may not fully equip us to understand the unique perspectives and needs of today's youth. It's essential to let go of our pride and acknowledge that we don't have all the answers. Instead, we must be willing to enter into the world of youth with an open mind and a willingness to learn from them.
One of the key elements of effective youth engagement is trust. Youth need to feel that they can trust adults to listen to their concerns, respect their perspectives, and provide meaningful support. Building trust requires authenticity, consistency, and a genuine commitment to their well-being.
Vulnerability is another crucial aspect of working with youth. It means being willing to admit when we don't have all the answers and being open to exploring solutions together. By embracing vulnerability, we create space for honest conversations, mutual learning, and meaningful connections with youth.
Effective planning and communication are also essential when working with youth. While adults may prefer concise and straightforward communication, youth often appreciate clarity and detail. Letting them know what to expect, how often, and what's in it for them can help set clear expectations and foster engagement.
In my experience working with youth, I've found that specifying the energy needed for different types of meetings can be incredibly beneficial. Whether it's a lecture-style session or a brainstorming workshop, clearly communicating the expected level of participation helps youth feel prepared and empowered to contribute.
One of the most valuable lessons I've learned from working with youth is the immense pressure they feel from adults. Often, youth are expected to meet adult expectations without adequate support or guidance. As adults, we have a responsibility to set youth up for success by over-communicating, being transparent, and showing empathy.
Incorporating trauma-informed and healing-centered frameworks into our interactions with youth is crucial. By prioritizing empathy, understanding, and support, we can create environments where youth feel valued, respected, and empowered to thrive.
Navigating the world of youth requires dedication, empathy, and a commitment to their well-being. As you embark on initiatives such as starting a youth advisory board or a youth council, remember to seek out professionals who specialize in working with youth, like myself and others in the field. Working with youth is not just an opportunity to involve them in decision-making processes; it's a chance to introduce them to the beauty of collaboration from an early age. However, it's crucial to approach these endeavors with care and intentionality. Done incorrectly or frivolously, working with youth can inadvertently perpetuate feelings of mistrust and disillusionment. By prioritizing genuine connection, meaningful engagement, and trauma-informed practices, we can create spaces where youth feel valued, heard, and empowered to make a positive impact in their communities and beyond.
