Mentoring in the Class

You've gathered together all these great young men and young women . . . but now what?  You want to encourage them in their education, but how?  With so many unique individuals glowing with promise (or at least showing a spark!), helping them along their road can get a little intimidating.

We're going to talk about mentoring, 

from the earliest steps with your newest youth, 

to leading youth presidencies and youth mentors.

To Prepare for Class:

LEARN

Read chapters 12 and 13 in "Teach the Children" by Neil Flinders.  What principles do you find that are necessary for a mentoring relationship?  Underline and be prepared to share quotes to back them up.

UNDERSTAND (Choose at least one)

Think about your own experience of coming to this training.  What are your expectations?  Are you nervous?  Excited?  Do you know other people that will be there?  Are you normally quiet, or are you willing to ask questions and discuss?  Write down answers to those questions.  Then think about the youth you mentor.  How similar/different is their initial experience to yours?

When you think about a "safe environment," what does that mean to you?  Write down your answers, or if it helps to create or bring something to help us understand, do that.

APPLY  (Choose at least one)

Read "Help Them Aim High" by Henry B. Eyring.  Underline and jot your thoughts as you read.  How does this apply to mentoring in a classroom?  Take some time to think about 3 youth in your life (preferably some that aren't your children that will be attending Vanguard, but it's your choice) - think about where they are at in their education.  What are their strengths?  How can you help them climb even a little bit higher?

Think of at least one person (or more!) in your life who helped you become who you are today.  How were they a mentor to you?  What qualities do they have that made them effective mentors?  Take it a step further - write them a note thanking them for what they've given you.