NEW BOOK OFFERS A BLUEPRINT FOR RAISING COMMUNITY-MINDED CHILDREN IN AN ERA WHERE 95% OF TEENS ARE "CONSTANTLY ONLINE"

Groundbreaking guide combines traditional ecological knowledge with modern science to help raise the next generation of community leaders.

VANCOUVER, BC, Dec. 20, 2024 /CNW/ - At a time when Pew Research (2024) reports nearly half of American teenagers are online "almost constantly," award-winning social media strategist and writer James R.C. Smith announces the release of his guidebook for parents, teachers, and people leaders, "Growing Together: Raising a Generation of Community-Minded Children."

The timing is crucial. According to the National Institutes of Health (2023), young people who engage in community activities show significantly better mental health outcomes. Meanwhile, the American Institutes for Research (2023) reports that high-quality mentoring relationships are essential to young people's growth, learning, and thriving.

"Growing Together" addresses these challenges head-on, offering evidence-based strategies for nurturing youth who understand their role in building resilient communities. The book draws from successful programs like Philadelphia's Green City Clean Waters initiative, which has diverted 2.7 billion gallons of water annually through community-based solutions, demonstrating how young people can contribute to meaningful environmental change.

Key Research-Backed Insights:

• MENTOR's 2023 study shows young adults who were mentored are 78% more likely to volunteer regularly in their communities.
• The National Farm to School Network documents significant improvements in academic performance and social skills through garden-based learning.
• Junior Achievement's 2023 research reveals 76% of youth want to start their own business, with 68% wanting their work to solve environmental problems.

"The research is clear," says Smith. "When we connect young people with their communities, everyone benefits. This book provides a practical roadmap for making those connections in a digital age."

Available Now: Amazon Kindle, hardback, and softcover: [https://amzn.to/3VKSyvc], and coming soon to Kobo.

The book includes:

• Lessons from nature
• Traditional storytelling
• Evidence-based approaches to youth engagement
• Case studies of successful community programs
• Comprehensive resource directory with verified funding sources
• Expert insights from leading researchers and practitioners

Stay tuned for James' next book about mental health for men (currently looking for a publisher!)

About the Author: James R.C. Smith is a full-time Dad, Content Creator, Dad-Blogger, and Social media & Communications Strategist. He explores the intersection of digital communication and community building through his website, SocialDad.ca, and his presence as @JamesRCS. His unique perspective combines professional expertise in modern communication with a deep understanding of traditional community values.

SOURCE SocialDad

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