7Cs of resilience
Competence

Competence is the ability or know-how to handle situations effectively. When we notice what young people are doing right and give them opportunities to develop important skills, they feel competent.

We undermine competence when we don’t allow young people to recover themselves after a fall.

Character

Children need a fundamental sense of right and wrong to ensure they are prepared to make wise choices, contribute to the world, and become stable adults.

Young people need a clear sense of right and wrong and a commitment to integrity.

Connection

Children with close ties to family, friends, school and community are more likely to have a solid sense of security that produces strong values and prevents them from seeking destructive alternatives.

Connections with other people, schools and communities offer young people the security that allows them to stand on their own and develop creative solutions.

Contribution

It is a powerful lesson when children realise that the world is a better place because they are in it. Young people who contribute to the well-being of others will receive gratitude rather than condemnation.

They will learn that contributing feels good and may therefore more easily turn to others, and do so without shame.

Control

When children realise that they can control the outcomes of their decisions and actions, they’re more likely to know that they have the ability to do what it takes to bounce back.

Young people who understand privileges and respect are earned through demonstrated responsibility will learn to make wise choices and feel a sense of control.

Coping

Children who learn to cope effectively with stress are better prepared to overcome life’s challenges.

Young people who possess a variety of healthy coping strategies will be less likely to turn to dangerous quick fixes when stressed.
Competence is the ability or know-how to handle situations effectively.