Free Resources from Search Institute

In 1990, Search Institute released a framework of Developmental Assets, which identifies a set of skills, experiences, relationships, and behaviors that enable young people to develop into successful and contributing adults. Over the following decades, the Developmental Assets framework and approach to youth development became the most frequently cited and widely utilized in the world, creating what Stanford University’s William Damon described as a “sea change” in adolescent development. Download the lists for the 40 Developmental Assets, for each age range (from 3-18). Multiple language translations available too.

Developmental Relationship Framework
Everyone seems to agree that “relationships matter.” But what is it about relationships that make some transformative while others seem to have little, if any, impact? Search Institute’s newest research-to-practice initiative focuses on studying and strengthening the developmental relationships that help young people succeed. Download the developmental relationship framework here.

Relationships Check Tool
Complete a quick Relationships Check-up to see where your relationships with important young people in your life are particularly strong, and where they can grow. When it’s complete, you’ll receive actionable approaches and activities to strengthen relationships with young people.

Building Developmental Relationships During the COVID-19 Crisis Checklist
Staff in schools and youth programs do not (and should not) stop seeking to build developmental relationships with young people while they are sheltering in place. This check list will help you stay connected to and build relationships with the young people in your life–whether they are near or far.

Relationships First
Search Institute is committed to exploring the role of positive, developmental relationships in the lives of young people. Relationships First introduces what we’re learning and provides some starting points for action for organizations and leaders who work with youth.

Keep Connected is a parent engagement program for schools, youth programs and others that want to help families strengthen relationships with each other. It’s designed for parents and kids as they move into the teen years and helps them stay connected as demands pull them apart.

Table Time Meal planning for families
Family dinners are important. Research shows that kids in families that frequently eat together tend to get better grades and are less likely to use alcohol, drugs and tobacco. This Family Dinner Toolkit can help you make the time parents and kids spend together count!

Mini Parenting Workshop
Relationships that Matter: 5 Keys to Helping Your Child Succeed (in English and Spanish)
With this single session, 80-minute workshop, you can help parents understand and focus on five areas of parent-child relationships that are key to youth’s success in school and other areas of life.

Talk About It
Here are some family conversation starters that help you talk with your children and teens and grow your relationships. Talk About It Cards help you share each person’s experiences, feelings, and beliefs so families can get to know each other better!