For 50 years the Search Institute has conducted in-depth research into the essential developmental ingredients of youth.  While the Institute has developed a list of 40 assets that need to be addressed by parents, schools and other organizations, Camp Fire has focused on just seven from that list, with the eighth being one that is quintessially Camp Fire.

Here is the list of assets* that our programs seek to advance:

Interpersonal Confidence:  Child seeks to build friendships and learns about self-control

Cultural Competency:  Child continues to learn about his or her own cultural identity and is encouraged to interact positively with children of different racial, ethnic and cultural backgrounds

Other Adult Relationships:  Child receives support from adults other than her or his parent(s), with the child somtimes experiencing relationships with a nonparent adult

Resistance Skills:  Child is learning to recognize risky or dangerous situations and is able to seek help from trusted adults

Peaceful Conflict Resolution:  Child continues learning to resolve conflicts without hitting, throwing a tantrum, or using hurtful language

Planning and Decision Making:  Parent(s) [and other responsible adults] help child think through and plan school and play activities

Personal Power:  Child has a growing sense of having influence over some of the things that happen in her or his life.

Appreciation for the Environment and Nature:  A uniquely Camp Fire asset...Child begins to understand and respect the role of environment and nature.

*Source:  The Search Institute - www.search-institute.org