Relationships are at the core of child and youth development. Research shows that supportive connections can help youth build identity, create positive change and flourish. Through the creation of supportive environments that nurture meaningful relationships, schools and school communities can help students develop a strong sense of self and become active participants in their communities.

The Search Institute's Developmental Assets ® and Developmental Relationships ® frameworks provide foundational information on positive youth development, and practical guidance on how to intentionally foster relationships that help students build resilience and reach their full potential. These frameworks can be used in schools to engage in positive mental health promotion, encourage student leadership opportunities, and foster connections within the school community.

Bring Developmental Assets ® and Developmental Relationships ® to Your School

The School Health Program works with schools to incorporate the Developmental Assets ® and Developmental Relationships ® frameworks into existing activities that promote student connections and well-being. 

We can work with your school to:

• Introduce the Developmental Assets ® and Developmental Relationships ®  frameworks at a staff meeting.
• Engage in discussion to learn about how your school is already building developmental assets and relationships with students.
• Help identify opportunities to build on current practices and provide ideas for becoming more intentional in your everyday interactions. 
• Provide information, resources and ongoing consultation to help you apply the Developmental Assets ® and Developmental Relationships ® frameworks.
• Work with you to engage parents, families and other community partners. 

Student Health Benefits

The more assets that students have:

• the less likely they are to engage in a wide range of high-risk behaviours
• the more likely they are to thrive at home, at school, and in their communities
  the more likely they are to be resilient in overcoming life’s obstacles and challenges 

Developmental Relationships ® are associated with positive outcomes for students, including:

• increased academic growth and learning
• increased social and emotional growth and learning
• increased sense of personal responsibility
• Reduced engagement in a variety of high-risk behaviours

Teaching and Learning

Developmental Assets® and Developmental Relationships® support student mental health and well-being by helping schools create positive, supportive environments where students can learn and thrive. These approaches complement the Ontario Health and Physical Education Curriculum, particularly

Strand A: Social-Emotional Learning Skills and Strand D: Healthy Living, including mental health literacy.
Educators can strengthen relationships with students by creating safe and welcoming environments, promoting inclusion and encouraging student voice. These practices can be incorporated into everyday school activities and interactions, including classroom learning, recess, extracurricular activities, committees and clubs.

Additional Resources

For more school-based information, resources, and French content, please visit Public Health Sudbury & Districts

Contact Us 

For more information or support, contact your local School Health public health nurse. You can also contact the health unit at 705-721-7520 or 1-877-721-7520 or complete our secure online Request for Service Form.

 Updated: November 6, 2026