Fostering a Spark

“Nobody can do for little children what grandparents do. Grandparents sort of sprinkle stardust over the lives of little children.” (Alex Haley ) I was fortunate enough to receive a lot of stardust in my formative years and I know it shaped who I am today - deepening the roots I needed to grow and eventually bloom. In hindsight, I recognize that I had a positive impact on my grandparents as well. That relationship was beneficial to both of us and I am grateful for it.??

One does not have to be a grandparent to step into a mentorship role. It is not just about being physically related - it is about spending time together, sharing life stories, passing along bits of wisdom, and sometimes just listening.?

The benefits to the younger generation

As a mentor, you can provide:

• Emotional support and a connection. Providing the opportunity to boost self-esteem and a sense of well-being.

• Wisdom and life experiences. Through storytelling and spending time together, knowledge and life lessons are passed on to those that come behind us.

• Role modeling and guidance. A different perspective on life can allow others to further develop the ability to navigate challenges, make decisions, and develop critical thinking skills.

• Unplugged time and face-to-face interactions. Being away from screens allows for engaging in conversations, telling stories, and playing games to develop stronger interpersonal skills.

The benefits to the mentor

• Improved health. Spending just one day a week with a mentee could lower the risk of developing Alzheimer’s and other cognitive disorders.

• Increased life satisfaction. Older individuals that spend with youth are more fulfilled than their peers who do not.

• Simple lessons. The youth in our country are a great reminder to live in the moment, to take time to play, and to dream big.

The benefits to our society

Over the past 200 years, life expectancy has steadily increased. This increase is a result of improved medical treatments and advances, better health care options, and healthier lifestyle choices. Longevity can place a burden on societal framework - leading to strains on our healthcare system and big shifts around labor and our workforce. Being an active mentor is an excellent way to improve your health span.?

On the flipside, youth today are surrounded by technology with an increased access to information, new ideas, and innovation. With the right support and investment, children can better grow into the problem-solvers, entrepreneurs, and change agents that society as a whole could benefit from.?

Be the stardust to younger generations

The presence of a mentor provides support, guidance, and connection that contributes to? emotional, social, and cognitive development. And, who knows? You might just be the spark someone needs for increased happiness, contentedness, self-assuredness, or joy. Maybe even mentor a future novelist, scientist, teacher, medical professional, city planner, or volunteer.?