Supporting Youth

Why Askable Adults?

In a 2017 survey, Vermont’s children and youth identified an array of concerns that cause them stress in their everyday lives.

When asked what would help, young people said that the number one solution would be more adults they can confide in.

Together, we can ensure that Vermont’s youngest people have the support they need to lead healthy, confident lives!

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A Helping Hand

Children and youth are more resilient to stress and adversity when in meaningful relationships with at least one trusting affirming adult. This is especially critical for young people working to develop a positive sense of self in a culture that often devalues them.

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What is an Askable Adult?

An askable adult is one who is approachable and easy for children and youth to talk to about anything that is on their minds.  Askable adults are committed to having strong, effective, and affirming relationships with youth using positive communication to develop trust and connectedness.

Qualities of adults who are “askable” include patience, consistency, respectfulness, honesty, kindness, attentiveness, trustworthiness, lightheartedness, open-mindedness, non-judgment, and knowledgeability.  Askable adults often have a similar common background experience as the young person.

Youth want to talk to adults about their everyday lives and school and family struggles. They are eager to connect about the issues impacting their lives.

Adults can strengthen these top skills to become more askable for children and youth:

  • Building Trusting and Affirming Relationships
  • Committing to Consistent Connections
  • Committing to Caring Communication
  • Being a Curious Co-pilot and Resource

Take Action

Together, we can ensure that Vermont’s youngest people have the support they need to lead healthy, confident lives! Your support makes a difference—start today.

Contact us to receive a free Askable Adult Skill Building Toolkit.

This resource will help you:

  • Strengthen your connections with the young people in your life by learning from their perspective
  • Build meaningful relationships with youth
  • Start conversations with other adults about how to better support young people

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Grow With Us

Skill-Building Toolkit & Lesson Plan

In the Askable Adult Skill Building Toolkit, find tips in four skill areas that help adults become more askable for children and youth.

The Askable Adult Lesson Plan & Conversation Starter Guide is an accessible curriculum designed for any adult or youth/adult team to bring to other adults in their workplace or community. It outlines flexible lessons and informal conversation starters that increase understanding and skills for adults to become more connected and “askable” for children and youth in their lives.

For more information or resources, please contact Chani Waterhouse.