DC TRUST Guide 1023 - Children & Youth Investment Trust ...

1
HUMAN RELATIONSHIPS
The main reason that young people cite for why they attend out-of-school time
programs is that they want an environment where they can build ongoing, consistent
relationships with caring adults and where they feel a sense of belonging to a group of
peers who accept, respect and appreciate them. Creating such a place of connection and
true caring is the foundation upon which we build after-school programming. To cultivate
healthy, positive relationships, however, we must focus on creating this environment through
our planning, communication and actions.
The following are key elements in creating an environment conducive to building strong
relationships:
1. Staff relates to all young people in positive ways.
a. Staff treats young people with respect and listens to what they say.
b. Staff appropriately greets each young person as he or she arrives at the program (e.g.
makes eye contact and addresses young person by name).
c. Staff intentionally interacts and engages with young people.
d. Staff maintains a consistent positive tone and manner in communicating and relating
with young people.
e. Staff communicates positive expectations for young people.
f. Staff does not disparage young people or discuss their problems in front of other young
people.
2. Staff responds appropriately to the individual needs of young people.
a. Staff provides activities and materials that consider the age range, special needs, interests,
learning styles and skill levels of young people in the program.
b. Staff is aware and respectful of the diversity of young people’s culture, religion, home
language and values of the family.
c. Program staff reflects the diversity of cultures among its young people and their
community.
d. Staff shows intentionality in putting young people together into teams or groups.
Field Guide to OST Best Practices / Youth Development Philosophy and Low Student-to-Staff Ratio / 4