For Parents and Guardians

Parents and guardians play such an important role in their children's lives, and this can become even more meaningful when entering a mentoring relationship. As you consider whether you want a mentor for your child, or if you have already made the decision to move forward, you may have questions about what is involved and what your role will be.

The Mentoring Partnership of Southwestern Pennsylvania can help you understand what mentoring is all about, what you can expect from your child's mentor and what is expected of you as you work together to build a positive mentoring relationship.

Mentoring can help children develop to their fullest potential

Mentoring is a structured and trusting relationship that brings young people together with caring individuals who offer guidance, support and encouragement aimed at developing the competence and character of the mentee. A mentor can become a friend who can provide opportunities for gaining new skills and experiences that will help him/her learn and grow And be successful at home, at school and in the community.

A mentor becomes another caring adult in the life of a child

A mentor's main role is to develop a positive relationship with your child, regularly spending time with him/her. Mentors are not intended to act as another parent but as an additional caring and responsible adult supporting the healthy development of your child. Perhaps you recall a teacher, coach, or another person who helped you in some way while you were growing up - that adult was being a mentor. Within a formal program there are people of various backgrounds and a wide range of skills and interests who volunteer to be carefully screened, selected, and trained to mentor a child.

Support from parents or guardians is key to the mentoring relationship

Once a mentor match is confirmed, the parent/guardian plays a key role in the success of the match. In many ways, the responsibilities of a parent/guardian are similar to that of any other activities in which the child participates. If you think about how you are involved in other activities - such as sports or an after-school club - you listen, make sure he/she attends and communicate with the leaders of those programs. Encouragement and a positive attitude from the beginning will go a long way toward a successful partnership. Early communication of values, rules, time limitations, or other concerns will help provide a strong foundation. As the relationship builds, it is important to talk with your child and the mentor separately about how things are going.

Questions and Concerns

For more specific information on mentoring or finding a mentor for your child, please email us at info@mentoringpittsburgh.com or give us a call at 412. 281. 2535.