Speaker: Elizabeth Wynter
As we close out part two of Becoming Youth Centered, I wanted to leave you with a quote that has grounded me in my work with youth and young adults. And that is, "Youth are not giving you a hard time, they are having a hard time." In part two, we discussed adolescent brain development and how their neurological growth during this critical phase impacts their behavior and needs. We've explored the five concepts of positive youth development and how focusing on strengths and attributes is much better than focusing on deficits and challenges as we're trying to help our young people. And last, but most importantly, we've talked about permanent connections and the concept of interdependence and relational permanency to support these young people as they transition from adolescence to adulthood. As we continue to strive to become more youth centered in our approach, let us remember that fostering genuine relationships with the youth we serve, ensuring that they have a village of permanent connections, and amplifying their voices in decisions that impact their lives. These are not just strategies, but these are essential components of providing high quality services to youth and young people involved in the child welfare system.
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