Embedded Files
Sparks fuel youth
Sparks fuel youth
A spark is a passion for a self-identified interest or skill, or a capacity that metaphorically lights a fire in an young person’s life, providing energy, joy, purpose, and direction. Having a spark or sparks gives a young person a sense of direction and encourages goal setting.
Simple actions to develop youth sparks
Simple actions to develop youth sparks
Help youth identify a spark by pointing out moments when you observe them exhibiting joy and positive energy
Support creativity! A spark in one area can fuel interest in another area
Affirm youth’s spark(s) by asking questions, listening, and providing encouragement
Model your own spark
Help youth overcome obstacles in the way
From the 4-H Volunteer Training & Activity Guide, Oregon State University (website)
Guide youth in exploring their sparks
Guide youth in exploring their sparks
Helping youth develop sparks (PDF) - handout and learning guide
Sparks fact sheet (PDF) - National 4-H
Goal-setting activities (Google Doc)
Goal-setting worksheet (Google Doc)
Lesson plans, games and activities (website) - UMN Extension Youth Development Curriculum Library
Contact
Contact
Jeremy Freeman, volunteer systems director, jeremyf@umn.edu, 612-624-6807
Page updated
Report abuse