The Secret Formula teaches kids how to become aware of their feelings and actions. This awareness enables them to fill their minds with positive thoughts and their life with positive actions, ultimately enhancing positive relationships.This book is interactive. Set aside some time to read it leisurely with your child. Use the child’s name to personalize the story and keep them engaged. A good place to say the child’s name is at the reflection points. You probably could read this entire book within an hour, if you only focus on the reflections, but it is highly recommended that you follow through with the activities throughout the book. This gives you the quality time to enjoy valuable interactions with that important young person in your life.
Be sensitive to the fact that the child may not be able to answer some of the questions. Be patient, and help them formulate some possibilities. The goal of this book is to begin a conversation and help the reader to learn more about the child. Remember, the first step to opening up the lines of communication is to listen without any interruptions or judgment. The goal is to develop a relationship that lasts forever.
Research by the Search Institute shows that kids who thrive have two important supports: knowledge of what their sparks are, and adults who support the development of those sparks. You can be that supportive adult for an important young person in your life. Several research studies show that creative arts, athletics, and learning are the top interests that kids identify as their personal sparks. Other activities like reading, volunteering, nature and spirituality also spark kids’ passions. Kids who know and develop their Sparks (and who have adults in their lives to help) have higher grades, better school attendance and physical health, empathy, social competence, concern for the environment, a desire to help others, and a sense of purpose (http://www.search-institute.org/sparks). A caring and involved adult who recognizes a Spark and who is willing to cultivate that Spark can help a young person thrive.
For further information on developing strengths, check out Thrively (http://www.thrively.com). Thrively is a free tool that anyone can use to assess their students’ strengths and help them discover their genius. Finally, my own research on “School Violence Prevention: Climate and Moral Perspective” found that a caring and supportive adult makes a significant difference in the life of a child. You can be that person. Enjoy the book!
-Mrs. G, Ph.D.