Sparks How Parents Can Ignite the Hidden Strengths of Teenagers

by Benson, Peter L.

• ISBN13: 9780470294048
• ISBN10: 0470294043
• Edition: 1st
• Format: Hardcover
• Copyright: 2008-10-06
• Publisher: Jossey-Bass

Summary

In this practical book, Dr. Peter Benson, a leading authority on childhood and adolescence, describes a simple yet powerful plan for awakening the spark that lives inside each and every young person. Sparkswhen illuminated and nurturedgive young people joy, energy, and direction. They have the power to change a young person's life from one of "surviving" to "thriving." Grounded in new research with thousands of teenagers and parents, Sparks offers a step-by-step approach to helping teenagers discover their unique gifts, and works for all families, no matter their economic status, parenting situation, or ethnic background.

Author Biography

Peter L. Benson, Ph.D., is widely recognized as a leading authority on children and teenagers and the processes that help them flourish and thrive. He is the creator of the framework of Developmental Assets and other widely celebrated innovations in human development. He serves as president and CEO of Search Institute, an independent nonprofit organization whose mission is to provide leadership, knowledge, and resources to promote healthy children, youth, and communities.

Table of Contents

Foreword	p. ix
Introduction: How Igniting Our Teenagers' Sparks Can Support and Save Our Children and Their Future	p. 1
Five Steps to Help Ignite Your Teen's Sparks
Recognize the Power of Sparks	p. 17
Know Your Own Teenager	p. 31
Help Discover and Reveal Your Teen's Sparks	p. 47
Be the Captain of Your Teen's Spark Team	p. 79
Keep Your Teen's Spark Lit	p. 101
What Helps Teens Thrive
On the Road to a Hopeful Future: Stories from Across America	p. 137
Thriving Youth, Thriving Nation	p. 167
Spark Resources
Teenage Sparks: A Rich National Tapestry	p. 181
What Kids Need to Succeed: The 40 Developmental Assets (Ages 12 to 18 Years)	p. 193
Key Spark Resources	p. 199
Notes	p. 215
Acknowledgments	p. 223
About the Author	p. 225
Index	p. 227
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