Seeing Youth as Assets—The Informal Educator and the Youth Development Model

The youth development model is built on a powerful belief: every young person is an asset to be developed, not a problem to be fixed. Informal educators embody this philosophy more than anyone, because they see children in the context of real life—family routines, community events, celebrations, disappointments, and ordinary daily moments.

Holding youth in unconditional positive regard means seeing their potential even when their behavior is challenging. It means understanding that mistakes are part of learning and that growth takes time. Informal educators can practice this by staying curious instead of judgmental: “What’s going on underneath this behavior?” “What support does this young person need right now?”

The youth development model emphasizes belonging, usefulness, competence, and power. Informal educators naturally reinforce these elements:
• Belonging: Youth feel safe when adults greet them warmly, listen without interrupting, and stay consistent.
• Usefulness: Helping with simple tasks—setting the table, organizing supplies, assisting a younger sibling—teaches youth that they contribute meaningfully.
• Competence: Adults build confidence when they notice strengths: “You’re really thoughtful with your sister,” or “You stuck with that puzzle longer than most people would!”
• Power: Youth gain agency when they make choices, voice opinions, and participate in decisions.

Informal educators are also uniquely equipped to notice shifts in mood, behavior, or confidence. They can encourage better choices through support rather than punishment. For example, instead of saying, “Stop whining,” an informal educator might say, “It seems like you’re frustrated—let’s figure this out together.”

When youth feel valued for who they are—not just what they do—they become more engaged, respectful, and resilient. Informal educators demonstrate, through consistent everyday interactions, that every child is capable, lovable, and full of promise.