Sparks – How Parents Can Ignite the Hidden Strengths of Teenagers

The GREATEST GIFT parents can give their children is to help them -discover their purpose and passion.

In this practical book, Dr. Peter Benson, a leading authority on childhood and adolescence, describes a simple yet powerful plan for awakening the spark that lives inside each and every young person. Sparks--when illuminated and nurtured--give young people joy, energy, and direction. They have the power to change a young person's life from one of "surviving" to "thriving."

Grounded in new research with thousands of teenagers and parents, Sparks offers a step-by-step approach to helping teenagers discover their unique gifts, and works for all families, no matter their economic status, parenting situation, or ethnic background. The simple steps are:

RECOGNIZE THE POWER OF SPARKS
KNOW YOUR OWN TEENAGER
HELP DISCOVER AND REVEAL YOUR TEEN'S SPARKS
BE THE CAPTAIN OF YOUR TEEN'S SPARK TEAM
KEEP YOUR TEEN'S SPARK LIT

Young people who identify their sparks and get support in developing them from caring adults have higher grades in school and are more likely to be

SOCIALLY COMPETENT
PHYSICALLY HEALTHY
VOLUNTEERS TO HELP OTHER PEOPLE
GOOD STEWARDS OF THE EARTH AND ITS RESOURCES
POSSESSED OF A SENSE OF PURPOSE

Isn't this what we all want for our teenagers?

Help your teen find his or her spark. Your role is crucial, and this book will give you everything you require to be the "spark champion" your child needs.