How Small Actions and Strong Support Can Make a Big Difference
A child’s early years are filled with wonder, discovery, and so many important milestones—not just physical ones, but emotional and social ones too. And while parents play a vital role in shaping a child’s life, there are many people outside the immediate family who help make a child’s childhood truly meaningful.
By the age of 10 or 12, children begin to look beyond their families to figure out how they fit into the world. Friendships, mentors, group activities, and role models become incredibly important. Being part of a group helps children develop a sense of identity and belonging—a key part of growing up with emotional resilience, confidence, and joy.
At God Starr, we believe that creating positive childhood experiences is a community effort. Here are ten ways we can all help make a child’s childhood brighter, stronger, and full of love.
1. Be Present
Sometimes, the best thing you can do for a child is simply to show up. Attend their school play, their soccer game, or their art show. Even a small gesture like remembering their favorite color or asking about their day shows them they matter.
2. Listen Without Judgment
Children need space to process big emotions and confusing experiences. By listening with curiosity instead of correction, we show them that it’s safe to speak up—and that their feelings are valid.
3. Be a Mentor
A mentor doesn’t replace a parent or teacher—they reinforce the guidance those adults give. Mentors provide a second voice of encouragement, helping kids build confidence, ask questions, and make good choices.
4. Encourage Group Activities
Being part of a group helps children discover who they are within a team. Whether it’s a club, dance group, community program, or youth ministry, these experiences offer security and foster self-discovery.
5. Celebrate Effort, Not Just Achievement
Instead of praising only the A+ or the goal scored, celebrate the effort it took to try. Kids learn to value progress and perseverance, and this builds a foundation for lifelong learning and emotional resilience.
6. Model Positive Behavior
Children are always watching. The way we speak to others, solve problems, or handle stress teaches them how to respond to life. When we model kindness, patience, and gratitude, they’re more likely to do the same.
7. Offer Choices
Letting a child choose what to wear, what book to read, or how to decorate their space gives them a sense of control and identity. This nurtures decision-making skills and confidence.
8. Create Joyful Moments
Play, laughter, and adventure matter. Joy is not just fun—it’s healing and transformational. Simple pleasures like a picnic in the park or a dance party in the living room create cherished memories and positive emotional patterns.
9. Speak Life into Them
Words have power. When we tell a child, “You’re so thoughtful,” “You’re a great helper,” or “You have a kind heart,” we help shape how they see themselves. Encouragement becomes their inner voice.
10. Support Their Journey, Not Just Their Behavior
Childhood is about becoming, not performing. Our job is to support their growth—not just manage their behavior. Help them explore interests, guide them through mistakes, and encourage them to form their own values.
Why It Matters
From birth to age five, children are in what’s often called the “I, Me, My” phase, where they discover they are their own person. Between ages 5 and 12, they begin learning their role in their family and the world around them. By adolescence, they’re building identities and trying to find their place—and these years are critical in forming emotional patterns and life values.
Having a strong support system—including mentors, teachers, family friends, coaches, and volunteers—provides more opportunities for feedback, encouragement, and safe exploration. These relationships reinforce the lessons kids are already learning from home and school and help them develop into emotionally intelligent, confident young adults.
Be Part of Their Story
At God Starr, we believe in creating safe, joyful spaces where girls can grow, dream, and thrive. Whether through mentoring, small group programs, or community events, we’re committed to showing up for kids during the years that matter most.
You don’t have to be a parent to change a child’s life.
Sometimes, all it takes is one kind word, one moment of connection, one person who believes in them.
If you’re interested in mentoring, donating, or joining our mission, visit godstarr.com to learn how you can get involved.