Mentoring from the viewpoint of a mentor

| by Ben Erion | March 29, 2007
Mentoring has provided me many positive experiences. Not only have I seen befits in the lives of the children I work with I have also seen the development within myself. I feel fortunate to be involved with such a wonderful program like Club Xcite!

As a mentor I try and provide a comfortable but firm fun platform from which my kids can excel. When I first started working with my kids I made every effort possible to get to know them. I wanted to understand what they liked and didn’t like so that I could use those avenues to connect with them. I wanted them to feel comfortable with me not only as a person but as a friend. I also ask them about what they think and feel. I believe it is important to have open channels of communication. I want the kids to feel like they have a say in what is going on. In my experience kids take a lot more pride in their development when it is something that they actively participate in.

Once our plan is in place I like to provide support and encouragement. I feel that positive re-enforcement and optimism is the best recipe for success. I would like to think that I am that shot of confidence that may be lacking. With these factors in place my kids have a platform from which they can try new things and grow. I want my kids to feel safe and excited about the new challenges they take on.

My goal is to show my kids that it is okay to try new things regardless of the results. I hope that they will be able to take these life lessons forward and continue to grow and develop in a positive direction.

When the results start to compile it is a wonderful thing. To see the pride in the faces of my kids after a success is something that is priceless. Whether it is learning how to ride a bike or catch the winning pass in football it doesn’t matter. The sense of accomplishment is what they take with them. From these successes my kids have been able to make friends, dispel fears, and grow as individuals.

I feel fortunate to be the one who has such a positive effect on these kids. I am touched that they allow me to be a part of their lives and their families. Not only do I teach these kids, they get to teach me. I learn the value of being patient, compassionate, and a constructive role model.

Mentoring is an experience that I value a lot. I look forward to watching my kids grow into young adults that feel good about themselves and their lives. I feel that mentoring is something that all children can benefit from. It is a great opportunity that provides endless possibilities.

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Club Xcite
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