Objectives:

• Practice active listening skills
• Understand the concept of youth-centered mentoring

Key Points:

Healthy communication requires active listening skills. Active listening is about receiving information from the Cadet and remaining non-judgmental and empathetic. How can you be an active listener?

• Give undivided attention! Find a time and place that allows you to focus on this Cadet. Avoid mixing other obligations with this time, and find a location that will not be distracting to either party.
• Seek to understand! When the Cadet is sharing information, seek to understand. Ask more questions, and try to withhold judgment.
• “What I hear you saying is…” We all want to be understood. Show the Cadet you are listening.
• Non-verbals are powerful! 93% of communication is nonverbal. Show the Cadet you are listening with your body language, i.e. head nodding, arms unfolded and eye contact.

Developing a youth-centered relationship is about finding a Cadet’s strengths. This is a fundamental shift away from focusing on a child’s ‘issues.’ With active listening skills and an emphasis on identifying your Cadet’s strengths, your relationship will be off to a good start.