All kids need adult support as they strive to find and nurture their sparks. When adults help kids develop their sparks, those kids are more likely to be successful in pursuing what gives their lives meaning and purpose. We call providing this support “being a spark supporter.” Any adult can be a spark supporter for any child, but most supporters come from one of these five categories:
Family
Lots of youth find their greatest encouragement and support from their family: parents or guardians, aunts and uncles, grandparents, and siblings. Do you know what your kids’ sparks are? What about your nieces and nephews? Your grandkids? If you’re not sure, ask them! Make it a point to know what the kids in your family are interested and go out of your way to help them pursue those interests.
Neighbors
Neighbors can be one of the most under-used resources in a community. If there are kids in your neighborhood that have interests that you share, talk to their parents about making a connection with them. And if you think your neighbors might be able to help your children pursue their sparks, ask those neighbors if they’d be willing to spend some time with your child to develop her or his interest..
Community Members
Families who belong to a church, temple, synagogue, mosque, or an organization such as the Boy Scouts, Boys and Girls Clubs, the YMCA, and other community-based groups have many great opportunities for helping their kids find adults to support their sparks. Mentoring organizations such as Big Brothers/Big Sisters can also match kids to mentors who have similar interests. Reach out to members of your community to ask them to be a spark supporter or if you could help their kids pursue their interests.
School
Teachers, administrators, counselors, coaches, social workers, and paraprofessionals want to help kids find their sparks, and often actively do so. If you don’t know many adults at your child’s school, do what you can to meet more of them. Go to student-teacher conferences, school open houses, and PTA meetings. Ask other parents if they know which teachers have interests similar to your child’s.
Friends
Your child’s friends—even though they aren’t adults—can be great spark supporters. Knowing and exploring sparks can strengthen your child’s friendships and lead to new ones. Encourage kids to talk to their friends about what motivates and inspires them, and work together to pursue those interests.
