Youth and Family Engagement

Camino, L., & Zeldin, S. (2002). From periphery to center: Pathways for youth civic engagement in the day-to-day life of communities. Applied Developmental Science (6) 4.

Abstract: Inclusive participation is a primary component of civil society. Yet opportunities and pathways for youth civic engagement remain limited for youth. This limitation has been significantly influenced by the daily segregation of youth from adults, negative public beliefs about adolescents, and stereotypes, both negative and overly romantic, about the capabilities of adolescents. However, this state of affairs is being challenged
by youth and adults across the county. Five contemporary pathways for youth civic engagement are described: public policy/consultation, community coalition involvement, youth in organizational decision making, youth organizing and activism, and school-based service learning. Three overarching qualities among these 5 pathways are also discussed: youth ownership, youth-adult partnership, and facilitative policies and structures.

Munson, S., & Freundlich, M. (2008, February). Families gaining their seat at the table: Family engagement strategies in the first round of child and family services reviews and program improvement plans. Englewood, CO: American Humane Society.

Abstract: (none available)

Pittman, K. (2000, Winter). Balancing the equation: Communities supporting youth, youth supporting communities. CYD Journal (1) 1.

Abstract: The change in century and millenium offers a timely and necessary opportunity for reflection. In this article, Karen Pittman reflects on 40 years of changes in approaches to working with and for marginalized young people. Despite the progress we have achieved during this time, the author reminds us that young people must not only have access to resources and opportunities, but also become active in sharing and exercising power if we are to achieve our vision.