Every young person carries within them a quiet dream — a spark of curiosity, a wish, or a vision of who they might become. When children and youth learn to dream, plan, and act on their own goals, they discover one of life’s greatest joys: becoming the author of their own story.

Optimism (belief things can improve) and hope (belief I can help them improve) are teachable psychological strengths. They shape how young people face challenges, recover from setbacks, and imagine their futures.