WHAT A TOWN FOR KIDS!
The city of Newburyport, Mass., has launched a “Summer Let Grow Challenge” to boost its kids’ independence, resilience and mental health.
Here’s what’s happening there – according to the town’s press release:
The City of Newburyport Recreation & Youth Services proudly announces the Summer Let Grow Challenge, a weekly series of age-appropriate independence activities designed to empower youth, support mental health, and serve as a protective measure against anxiety and substance misuse.
Inspired by Newburyport’s commitment to community resilience and youth well-being , the initiative invites children each week to try new tasks on their own—whether riding a bike, preparing a snack, or exploring a local trail—offering small yet vital experiences of autonomy.
We have a special challenge sheet for families to complete. If kids are at a Newburyport Rec program, we will do prizes on Fridays for anyone who did a Let Grow Challenge. And at the end of the summer, ANYONE who did at least 8 things will get a coupon for a FREE Cup Ice cream!
How does it work?
- Adults have to take The Let Grow Pledge to STEP BACK SO OUR KIDS STEP UP!
- Download the challenge packet below for ideas.
- Kids: Each week, work with your grown-ups to choose something new to try on your own. Some things may need a little prep or even practice. Others you can just do!
- When you are done, congratulate yourself and think about what else you can do! Fill out your page and bring it to the Newburyport Rec staff at a program, event, or the office to get your prize.
Why Independence Matters
As explained by Let Grow, a nonprofit championing childhood independence, structured, adult-led activities have overtaken free, self-directed time—undermining youth resilience and sense of competence (letgrow.org). Independence fosters:
- Resilience & coping skills: Youth who independently solve problems cultivate an internal locus of control, enabling them to handle life’s stressors rather than feel overwhelmed (gse.harvard.edu).
- Reduced anxiety & depression: According to developmental psychologist Peter Gray, less structured time correlates with lowered rates of anxiety, depression, and even suicidal ideation among children (gse.harvard.edu).
- Protective factors against substance use: Empowered youth with a sense of competence and self-efficacy are less likely to turn to substances as coping mechanisms.
A Word from Dr. Peter Gray
Dr. Peter Gray, research professor at Boston College, co-founder of Let Grow, and author of Free to Learn, applauds Newburyport’s initiative. “Independence is a developmental vitamin,” says Dr. Gray. “It builds happier, more resilient kids who can tackle life’s challenges—exactly what the Summer Let Grow Challenge provides.” (letgrow.org)
Adds Andrea Egmont, the Director of Youth and Recreation Services and Youth Sevices – and a longtime proponent of Let Grow’s ideas and programs:
“Our city has long prioritized positive youth development and resilience, the BEACON Coalition has worked to create city wide initiatives for 20 years and we are excited to roll out this new one!”
Still a little nervous? Let Grow has myth busters and crime statistics to put your mind at ease!
Let Grow here: Our FREE Let Grow Community Toolkit has even more resources for raising resilient kids in a kind and caring community! Like Newburyport, Mass!
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