Google Translate Disclaimer

Translation on this website is provided by Google Translate, a third-party automated translator tool. The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit assumes no responsibility for the accuracy of translations performed by Google Translate, or for any issues or damages resulting from its use.

Children playing outside
print header

Schools

Developmental Assets and Developmental Relationships

Research demonstrates how supportive connections can help youth build identity, create positive change and flourish. The Search Institute’s Developmental Assets ® and the Developmental Relationships ® frameworks can be used in schools to engage in positive mental health promotion, encourage student leadership opportunities, and foster connections within the school community.

Building students’ internal and external assets helps them to achieve optimal learning and potential. 
Relationships are at the core of child and youth development. Through the creation of supportive environments that nurture meaningful relationships, schools and school communities can help students develop a strong sense of self and become active participants in their communities.

The more assets that students have:

  • the less likely to engage in a wide range of high-risk behaviours
  • the more likely to thrive at home, at school, and in their communities
  • the more likely to be resilient in overcoming life’s obstacles and challenges 

Through Developmental Relationships ® students:

  • increase academic growth and learning
  • increase social and emotional growth and learning
  • increase sense of personal responsibility
  • decreased risky behaviours

Developing students’ assets through supportive school environments and positive relationships with educators support the mental health, stress, and resiliency themes found throughout the Ontario Health & Physical Education Curriculum in Strand A: Social-Emotional Learning Skills and Strand D: Healthy Living as it relates to health topics including Mental Health Literacy.

You can support students through meaningful relationships using proven measures such as providing a safe and welcoming environment, promoting inclusivity, and encouraging student voice.  These supports can be practiced in all daily interactions and in all aspects of the school environment including classrooms, recess, curricular activities, committees and clubs etc. The Developmental Assets and the Developmental Relationships frameworks demonstrate how to be intentional with relationships and empowering students so they can build resilience and reach their full potential.  

To get started, we recommend that schools:

We work with schools to incorporate the these frameworks into existing activities for promoting student connections and well-being. We are available to:

  • Meet with you to learn about how your school is already building developmental assets and relationships for students.
  • Help identify opportunities to build on current practices and provide ideas to help you and your team be more intentional in your every day interactions. 
  • Provide information, resources and consultation to help you apply the Developmental Assets ®  and Developmental Relationships ® frameworks. 
  • Work with you to engage parents/families and other community partners. 

 

To request support with planning and implementing the Developmental Assets ® and Developmental Relationships ® framework at your school, contact your School Health public health nurse.

For more school-based information, resources, and French content please visit Public Health Sudbury & Districts

For background information please visit Search Institute.
Did you find what you were looking for today?
What did you like about this page?
How can we improve this page?
Page
Feedback

If you have any questions or concerns that require a response, please contact Health Connection directly.

Thanks for your feedback.
Failed to submit comment. Please try submitting again or contact us at the Health Unit.
Comment already submitted ...