At a Search Institute Conference in November, one of their researchers revealed that the most important Asset Category to focus on to keep kids safe is Boundaries and Expectations. Youth inherently are risk-takers- pushing the limits of their physical bodies, emotional states and mental capabilities- on the athletic fields, dating and social scenes or in their classrooms. Coaches, teachers and parents inspire and encourage kids to “do more”, “be stronger”, “play harder” and “win”. Peer pressure can often result in kids acting out in risky ways to be accepted. The stress to be an “A” student can become a silent factor that will affect kids behaviors as well. The possibilities for indiscretion, bad judgment, drug use and alcohol abuse, are numerous and more available than ever and can lead to tragic consequences.

Kids see and hear more news because of TV and the Internet than their parents ever did. The impact of constant ‘bad stuff’ can certainly chip away at their positive attitudes and influence their choices and behaviors! News travels instantly, often with uncensored, gruesome details. Teens often tune out the world with music or video games- not always the best choice if they contain graphic violence. Young children have shown tendencies to mimic the violence they view on TV or video games, sometimes with disastrous results.

At our Town Meeting in October a question was asked… “How does a parent compete with such formidable external forces?” One way is more open and honest discussions with youth about world events, violence, war, and personal safety. I know my Mom made it very clear to me that we are given only one body in this life to do the things we want to do, so we had better take care of it. Another way is for our communities to involve kids in activities that have a positive effect on others, to show them they can make a difference. However, the category of assets that is consistently most strongly related to lower levels of risk-taking behavior are boundaries and expectations, which focus on setting consistent limits, expectations, and positive role modeling from family, peers, school, neighborhoods and other settings. Easily said, not so easy to do.

Have you ever felt like as a parent that you were the only one setting boundaries for your kids in order to keep them safe? HCI can bring solutions to parents and caregivers facing the toughest of issues. Our Parenting Discussion Groups have consistently provided a safe place for adults to share with others the challenges they are facing, discuss how to get through to their young kids, and most importantly the dilemma of setting boundaries and delivering consequences consistently. During these discussion groups you will have a chance to connect with other parents to discuss what is working and not working so that parents can become a united consistent force and community in the positive development of their youth.

The Parenting Discussion Groups will begin the week of March 24, 2008 and the deadline for registration is March 14, 2008. Over the years, parents have continued to meet and share their successes, fears, questions, and solutions for raising and understanding youth. Won’t you join us? Visit www.hci-rtm.org and register today or call 610-891-6286. HCI is there to provide the resources, guidance and hope for families in this most challenging time.