Let the Village Take Over...

It was a blessing to partner with the amazing staff of the Glenbard 87 school district in the great state of Illinois to support their students in their efforts to amplify their voices!

I'm thankful for my kids. I have a 24 year-old son who serves in the US Army and is currently stationed in South Korea. I have a 21 year-old daughter who is studying musical theater at Western Michigan University. As much credit as they would like to give to their mom and I for helping them get to where they are in life (because of us or in spite of us can be debated lol), I know they would not have made it to where they are without the help and support of non-parental, non-judgmental caring adults in their life.

There is plenty of research and evidence that demonstrates the importance of young people being connected to caring adults outside of their home. "It takes a village" can sound very cliché, but it is so true! As parents, one of our responsibilities is to help our children curate or create their village.

Here are a few tips to help you curate village. Connect them with caring adults that:

Are the kind of adult you would like your child to grow up to be
Recognize the value of young people
Have the time, energy, and availability to be part of your child's / children's village

These adults can be found at school, in your neighborhood, places of worship, community centers / programs, workplaces, sports programs, art programs, etc.

The main thing is that your child or children know that they have other adults in their lives besides their parents or caregivers that love them, want the best for them, and expect the best from them.

Here's a quick video that explains this a little more. If you like it, please share it.

As always, thank you for being who you are and doing what you do. The work is working.