Understanding the Science of Adolescence

A Window of Opportunity to Enhance Young People’s Lives

During adolescence, young people’s experiences make new connections in their brains quicker than almost any other time in their lives. It is also a time when negative experiences, including racism and poverty, can create steeper barriers for our young people to achieve their goals.

Earlier this fall, we were delighted to join our partners at the UCLA Center for the Developing Adolescence and the Frame Works Institute for a week of convenings at The Hive to learn about adolescent brain science. We explored ways to design our programs for #YoungPeople to make healthy connections and create a positive sense of identity.

Together with our young people and top brain science experts, we’re deepening our understanding of how to meet the unique needs of adolescence so young people can overcome past adversity and realize their ambitions. By supporting young people’s growth, we help their dreams take flight while strengthening our communities.

Join in creating safe spaces for youth by looking at the material below:

• STEPS for Youth: a policy check in
• Youth Opportunity Toolkit
• 5 Key Elements of Developmental Relationships

For more, explore the Our Young People resources from our partners.