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Development Topics
Raising Successful Kids
Add One Asset at a Time
It’s encouraging to know that your young person doesn’t need all 40
assets to do well. This isn’t about becoming perfect, or the class valedictorian
or all-state athlete. When young people hit a level of 21 assets, their risk factors
go way down. That’s like a young driver reaching 21 and his car insurance
rates coming down.
Here’s a few ideas on how to add some assets quickly:
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Asset #6 is parent involvement in school.
Find little ways to be present at school. For example, walk your elementary
child to her class rather than drop her at the curb. You’ll silently let
her and her friends know that she’s valuable and that you’re involved.
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Asset #21 is achievement motivation.
Even while your kids are in elementary school, nurture vision for college.
Visit college campuses whenever you can.
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Asset #32 is planning and decision-making.
Nowadays youth activities seem to be overcoached, leaving youth with little
decision-making experience. Let your church stand out; really empower youth
by letting them plan and lead.
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Asset #39 is believing that “my life has a purpose.
Talk over some questions with your children:
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If everyone understood that life on earth is really preparation for
eternity, how would we act differently?
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What do you love to do that you could use to serve others in the
family of God?
What do you feel might be a part of the Life Message that God has given
you to share with the world?
Questions are from Rick Warren’s The Purpose-Driven Life (Grand
Rapids: Zondervan), pp. 320-322.
— David Bunker
Do you have thoughts, questions, advice on this topic? Post your stories and comments in the forum for other parents to respond to. Enter the forum now.
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