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Why does every child need a mentor? This is a very good question but another question could be: why shouldn’t every child have a mentor? Which is equally as good, if not better.

If we were to really consider both of the above questions the majority would lean towards every child needing a mentor in some way or another, which is true.

However, this does change, when there is a cost implication but to me, every child still does need a mentor and below I share a few reasons why.

Just for clarity sake, when I say mentor that mentor could be a parent, older sibling, uncle, cub scout leader or teacher etc. I believe every child needs someone who has an invested interest in their progression and advancement towards their zenith.

But, as a word of caution let’s not fall into the assumption that the parent or the others mentioned are able to provide that supportive role because: you can’t give what you don’t have. The truth is some children don’t have healthy relationships with their parents, siblings or immediate role models or some children are an exception (talent wise) to this in their family. So for them to reach their potential their mentoring would need to come from outside their close family.

So for that reason where additional educational / specialist mentors can be provided within the learning or wider community, it is a good thing. With my caution concluded, here area few reasons why I believe, every child needs a mentor:

1. Every child has got potential to be realised.

Within every caterpillar there is a butterfly and the caterpillar becomes the butterfly through its own process. Unlike a butterfly, a child will not reach their highest expression without the right tutelage, guidance and support for this reason where possible it is good if they can experience mentorship.

2. Mentoring is relational.

While children are developing, they need the kind of dialogue, exchange of ideas, challenge from a more advanced person which brings about greater inquisitiveness and the sharpening of the heart, character and mind. This type of relational process experienced via a mentoring dynamic helps them to be developed holistically. Children are heavy on relationship whether it be social media, peer groups or the right adults and formal or informal mentoring can provide this.

3. We are unique and different. 

I can never forget seeing the above picture with the accompanying quote: “everybody has genius but, if you judge a fish by it’s ability to climb a tree it will go through it’s life feeling like it’s stupid” – Albert Einstein. It’s a shame that this is a reality for many children in schools but mentoring can create balance for them.

Because mentoring is personalised and bespoke to each mentee, it can help children to realise that they are special, smart, unique, intelligent and genius even if they are not academically so. We are all different and will all make different types of contributions to society and mentoring can help children appreciate that.

Because mentoring is personalised and bespoke to each mentee, it can help children to realise that they are special, smart, unique, intelligent and genius even if they are not academically so. We are all different and will all make different types of contributions to society and mentoring can help children appreciate that.

4. Mentoring is informal education.

Whilst I totally endorse pursuing an academic education and appreciating the opportunity to attend school, I also strongly recommend as said by Socrates it is imperative to “know thyself”.

Many children experience formal education and learn english, numeracy, science, maths and history but don’t learn about themselves. This is so key especially now! Children need to know their strengths, talents, aptitudes and inclinations as the economy becomes more volatile and opportunities become less accessible. Mentoring would highly complement their career choices and vocational pursuits.

5. Creates a level paying field.

Many children that are being mentored at present, feel some form of disadvantage or at the other end of the spectrum feel much advantage, however mentoring can create a level playing field. For those who don’t have much opportunities, mentoring can create one’s that they could not create themselves. And those who do have opportunities, it can help them to know which one’s to choose or leave.

I hope you have enjoyed this piece and I agree that there are many more reasons why every child should have access to “quality” mentoring but, hopefully this has given you a bit more to consider or at least whet your appetite. In conclusion, I will leave you with a quote from a child who has received mentoring:

“I enjoy meeting and talking with children from different classes and different age groups. Mentoring is helping me to think about what I want to be”. Max (year 6)

Should every child receive mentoring, what do you think?

Herman Stewart 2015 ©

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