10 Ways to Better Connect with a Young Person in Your Life

10 Ways to Better Connect with a Young Person in Your Life

Whether you’re a parent, a sibling, a teacher, or a mentor, so many of us have a young person in our lives that looks up to us! And at the end of the day, every child craves one-on-one attention.

If you’re looking to better connect with a student, mentee, or young person in your life, try out these ten tools. Not only will you have fun, but the child you spend time with will be forever grateful. Even the smallest of gestures can make a huge impact on a child.

  • ENCOURAGE

    Ask them what they want to be when they grow up, or if they could wish for anything, what would it be? Then help them create the steps that will lead them there.

  • BE PROMPT

    Let them know they are important to you by being on time for your outings.

  • LOOK & LISTEN

    Really “SEE” them. Don’t just look on the surface, really notice and mention the positive things they do.

  • EXPLORE TOGETHER

    Help expand their world by exploring different ethnic neighborhoods. Talk about the similarities and differences between their culture and this one.

  • BE CREATIVE

    Invite them to explore their creativity. We all have creative ability, it just takes some of us longer to identify it. If they feel they are not creative, engage them in a conversation about what they do when they are bored. Creativity has many faces.

  • LEARN SOMETHING NEW

    Find a topic they are really interested in and read a book together about it. The fact that you knew it was an interest of theirs will let them know you are paying attention to who they are and what they are saying.

  • HELP OUT

    Encourage them to be of service to others. Working together to help someone else creates a connection.

  • BE OPEN

    Let them see who you are by sharing how you overcame a struggle. It will also help them to know that we all struggle with something and will allow them to make a connection with you.

  • PLAN TOGETHER

    Invite them to help you plan an outing. This will help them understand that this relationship is a partnership and they do get to have a say in it.

  • HAVE FUN

    Let them know how much fun you have when you are with them. It will cause you both to smile!

Are you interested in helping a child in need? Become a Friends First mentor and connect with a young person who deserves a trusted friend! You can use any or all of these tips to build a better bond with your mentee.

Discover More

Comments