Developmental Characteristics of Nineteen to Twenty-One Years Old (Young Adults)
Developmental Themes During this stage of life, young adults further develop their critical thinking skills, form relationships based on shared values and belief systems, modify their risk taking behaviors and make decisions based on future consequences. As mature...
Transitioning to Middle or High School? Let’s Go!
Thinking about your mentee’s journey to their new school in the fall? Your 5th or 8th grade mentee might be too, as they will be entering middle school and high school in just a few short months. The idea might be both exciting and a little scary for each of you,...
Where Do We Go From Here?
As vaccines become more available and the world takes a few shy steps towards normalcy, we can’t help but think: “where do we go from here?” What has this past year meant for our mentees? And how do we move forward? Below are thoughts to consider as you begin thinking...
Transitions: Tips for Mentors
In a normal school year, transitioning to a new school (such as Elementary to Middle or Middle to High school) can be daunting. COVID has only compounded anxiety about any changes, and that’s before considering things like returning to full classrooms. Many of our...
From the Mentor Directors
The new school year is a time of transitions and new beginnings for all of us. For all of our mentors, it will mark a new chapter in your mentoring relationship, for some of you it may be the big jump from elementary to middle school. And some of you may be...
Understanding Adolescent Development – Strategies for Mentors
Supporting and guiding a teen as they grow from childhood to adulthood is a complex task that requires patience, a healthy dose of humor, and lots of love. What was once thought to be caused by angst, rebelliousness, or sex driven hormones, we are now able to...
Developmental Characteristics of Eight to Ten Years Old (Grades 3-5)
A child’s development is an individual and continual process. The following page outlines typical developmental characteristics of this age group. Keep in mind that some of the youth in the program maybe be “behind” or “advanced” in any of these areas.General...
Developmental Characteristics of Five to Seven Years Old (Grades K-2)
A child’s development is an individual and continual process. The following page outlines typical developmental characteristics of this age group. Keep in mind that some of the youth in the program maybe be “behind” or “advanced” in any of these areas.General...
Thinking Ahead to Transitions
Thinking about the future and what lies ahead for your match? Your 5th or 8th grade mentee might be too as they will be entering the 6th or 9th grade next fall! The idea might be both exciting and a little scary for each of you. When compared to the structure and...
Tips For Transitioning
Give your mentee opportunities to express their feelings about the new school If your mentee isn’t bringing up the topic but you notice they are more distracted or stressed out than usual, initiate a conversation. Acknowledge the change that is coming and ask...