What’s Your Spark?
This bright, interactive item for youth (sold in packs of 20) folds into a “spark catcher.” What’s Your Spark? prompts young people to think about their passion, or “spark,” whether it’s painting, soccer, or helping other people.
A person’s spark is what they are really passionate about doing, an activity that unleashes their energy and joy, one that may allow them to really express their personality and perhaps make their own unique contribution to the world.
Why does spark matter? Because when young people know and develop a spark, and have the support of several adults in growing it, they present a strong picture of health and wellbeing. Learn more about sparks.
Some ideas for how to use the Spark Catcher.
Have youth get into pairs. They can sit together to open and fold their spark catcher, and you could facilitate the process by running through each “page” with them. The first thing youth will see is the question “What’s Your Spark?” This is intended to get kids thinking about their passions. When they open to the next spread, they’ll start to get an idea of what sparks are—writing, singing, and running are examples. When they open again, they’ll get a stronger sense of sparks, which should help them start to think more about the sparks in their own lives. Once it’s all the way open, encourage the youth to fold the poster into a spark catcher (you can find the how-to video at www.search-institute.org/sparkcatcher).
Youth can now use the spark catcher as an interactive conversation starter. They can take turns opening the flaps and reading the examples of sparks. Encourage them to ask each other questions, such as:
- What’s your spark?
- Is your spark listed on the spark catcher? If not, is there a spark that’s related to what YOU love to do (art, music, sports)?
- Are there any passions you would add to the spark catcher?
- What simple step could you take today to nurture or use your spark?
- Can you see using your spark in a career someday, or would it be a hobby?
- Does your spark help other people?
- How does your spark make you feel?
- Is there anyone in your life who helps you with your spark (a teacher, friend, parent, coach, neighbor)?
- Could you help someone else with his or her spark?
