Educators are joining the community together to support research that shows essential elements needed in the development of children. Called the 40 Developmental Assets, they are believed to be traits of successful young people who are on their way to a bright future.
Produced from study results by the Search Institute, the asset guidelines have been part of Pleasanton education for some time. Having educated students at a conference before the school year, Pnina Tobin from Amador Valley Adult and Community Education said they are being more systematic about implementing the ideas.
“We have a 40 Assets task force that’s spreading the message to schools and parents,” she said. “We want to make it a 40 Assets community. It looks at a child’s strengths and develops them instead of focusing on their problems.”
From 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday, adult and community education invites parents and students from fourth to 12th grade to hear from a senior trainer at the Search Insitute, James Vollbracht. Author of a booked based off the program, “Stopping at Every Lemonade Stand,” he will discuss the progress of building assets in Pleasanton.
“The book offers simple ways to reconnect disconnections that have occurred between adults and kids,” Tobin said.
The goals act like building blocks, with the idea of adding them in a holistic and proactive approach. An example of an asset would be family support and interaction as well as raised self esteem. As a child matures, it is believed that a teen who has half of the suggested amount would more easily ward off any high-risk behaviors, such as drug and alcohol abuse and pregnancy.
Thursday night’s program is free and anyone interested can register by calling 426-4280. For details on the event, visit www.pleasanton.k12.ca.us/adulted.
To view the 40 Developmental Assets, visit www.search-institute.org/downloads.
