The Moment of Youth

Helping teens believe in themselves

by Marilyn Price-Mitchell, Ph.D.

Mistakes Improve Children's Learning

Most adults understand that making mistakes is part of life. Yet we pressure our kids to get it right! If they make errors or experience setbacks, parents envision a successful future slipping from grasp. Actually, the opposite is true. Making and learning from mistakes improves young people’s positive outcomes in life. Read More

Family-School Partnerships for the 21st Century

While education reformers argue about teacher accountability and test scores, many parents and teachers are not waiting for mandates from above. They know that successful educational partnerships begin at the grassroots, where parents, teachers, and students learn and problem-solve together. Read More

The Fallacy of Good Grades

We live in an age obsessed with numbers. But that doesn't mean we have to teach children to measure their self-worth by grades or test scores. Read More

Beyond the Classroom

Wondering how to help teens build leadership skills, nurture friendships, and develop an optimistic outlook? Help them choose meaningful after-school programs. Read More

How Teenagers Become Passionate About Giving

Have you ever wondered why some teenagers find purpose through community service while others find it difficult to stay engaged? Learn the common ways young people traverse the route from volunteering to true engagement. Read More

Oh, Say, Can You See?

The most memorable rendition of the "Star Spangled Banner" I've ever witnessed, one teenage girl demonstrated that it's not always about being your best. It's about the process of becoming your best that counts. Read More

Applause: Children, Music & Social Change

At a time when music and arts programs are being slashed from school budgets, research acknowledges its significant benefits to children. Some communities are stepping up to help all youth succeed. Read More

What Teens Learn by Overcoming Challenges

Watching adolescents grapple with age-related and societal challenges is not an easy task. Yet research shows that teens become successful by overcoming obstacles. In fact, learning to face and overcome challenges during adolescence is critical to developing life-long success and well-being. Read More

Marilyn Price-Mitchell, Ph.D., is a developmental psychologist and researcher in the field of positive youth development and youth civic engagement.

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About The Moment of Youth

The Moment of Youth shares stories, research, and insights about how teens develop into young adults who believe in themselves and their abilities. It explores the underlying foundations of growth -- the experiences and relationships that help youth discover purpose, meaning, initiative, creativity, resilience, love of learning, empathy, and other internal strengths that foster a life of well-being.