A Children First Community Children First is a community-wide effort calling individuals, families and organizations to give kids the care and support they need to grow up healthy and happy. A philosophy, not a program, Children First encourages everyone to look at our young people as resources to be nurtured. St. Louis Park Schools, along with the city, faith, health and business communities launched this effort in 1992. Children First is based on Search Institute's 40 developmental assets. Search Institute is an independent nonprofit organization whose mission is to provide leadership, knowledge, and resources to promote healthy children, youth, and communities. The Institute has identified building blocks of healthy development that help young people grow up healthy, caring, and responsible. Search Institute's research shows that kids who have a lot of assets are more likely to do well in school, volunteer in the community and care about others. Kids who have lots of assets are less likely to use tobacco or drugs or be sexually active. Think back to when you were young. What was really important to you? A supportive family, art activities or sports, feeling valued? What you identify is probably included in the 40 developmental assets. Click here for a copy of the 40 developmental assets. To find out more visit: www.children-first.org

6425 West 33rd Street St. Louis Park, MN 55426-3498 phone: 952.928.6000 fax: 952.928.6020 contact us by email