How to Mentor a Child
When you choose to mentor a child, you accept an important role in a young person's life. A mentor is a guide, somewhere between parent and friend, who helps the child navigate uncertain terrain. Mentoring takes time, effort and energy, but you can make a profound difference.
Read on to learn how to mentor a child.
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Instructions
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Consider a formal program. You can be a great mentor without one, but a formal program can help you make the most of a mentor/mentee relationship by providing you with effective instructional tools. In addition, the program enables you to ask questions and receive guidance from more experienced mentors.
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Build trust. A mentor/mentee relationship takes time to develop. Unless you choose to mentor a child you know well, your relationship is likely to take time before the two of you become close. It's important to show the child you are trustworthy. Always follow through with everything you say, including being on time for your appointments together.
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Make a plan for the future. Help your protégé set attainable short, mid-range and long-term goals. Show the child how to steer his or her own life by consciously planning for the future.
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Provide a strong example. The old adage 'monkey see, monkey do' has merit. You cannot teach a child to behave as a responsible citizen unless you are one. Don't try to keep illicit activity secret from your mentee; children are remarkably receptive. Always be the type of person you would be proud to have your mentee duplicate.
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Help the child make responsible choices. When the child is faced with a problem, point out possible solutions and the ramifications of each choice. A good mentor teaches a mentee to appreciate a cause and effect approach to decision making.
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Know when to step back. As the mentee grows, a wise mentor learns to simply guide, rather than lead the way. When you learn that your protégé is ready, hand over the reins.
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Tips & Warnings
Listen as much as you speak. Children want to be talked with, not at. You can become a great mentor by becoming a great friend.
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Comments
View all 6 Comments-
cherry67
Jan 28, 2009
good ideas here -
BC Doan
Jan 12, 2009
Wonderful, wonderful ideas and tips Tery!
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Ladybugblue
Jan 02, 2009
These are great ideas! Very good article!
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sneedc
Jan 02, 2009
Great awareness article. MY kids used to drive me so nuts, I had a magazine with couples' photos in it and I'd sit them down and say "pick your new parents out" because I am at my wits' end with you. I know, horrible. I'm a bad mommy!!! We lived to survive the toddler years, now we're into the terrible teen years. 5*
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didimay
Jan 02, 2009
Thanks, I am sure we can all find someone we can help.
