Positive Youth Development (PYD) is an intentional, strengths-based approach that helps young people thrive. Rather than viewing youth as problems to fix, PYD supports them in developing the skills, relationships, and environments they need to reach their full potential and contribute to their communities.
Positive Experiences + Positive Relationships + Positive Environments = PYD
The 5 Cs of Positive Youth Development
- Competence – Confidence in handling life’s challenges
- Confidence – Belief in one’s abilities and self-worth
- Connection – Healthy, supportive relationships
- Character – Respect for rules, ethics, and responsibility
- Compassion – Empathy and care for others
Together, these lead to a sixth C: Contribution to family, school, and community.
What Makes a PYD Program Successful?
- Physical and emotional safety
- Clear structure and expectations
- Supportive adult relationships
- Opportunities for belonging and identity
- Positive social norms and values
- Youth leadership and skill-building opportunities
- Family, school, and community coordination
Why It Matters
Research shows that PYD participants are:
- More likely to graduate from college
- More likely to be financially stable
- More likely to report better mental and physical health
Positive Youth Development Educational Series
The South Dakota Department of Health’s Cor Health & Wellbeing program is hosting a three-part Positive Youth Development (PYD) Training Series. PYD is built on the idea that youth thrive when they have access to positive experiences, strong relationships, and supportive environments.
Upcoming Webinar:
Topic: Positive Environment
Title: Seeing Young People through Rose Colored Glasses
Date: November 13, 2025
Time: 12 PM CT
Lynn Bretl, MPP, Deputy Director of the Center for Healthy Youth Development at the University of Minnesota Medical School, will lead a presentation on the fundamentals of adolescent development. Attendees will explore how their environment can influence a young person’s ability to complete key developmental tasks—and how applying this perspective can strengthen your capacity to support youth more effectively.
Upcoming Topics:
- Positive Relationships
Previous Recordings from this Series:
PYD Examples, Training, & Resources
- Create opportunities for youth to build skills
- Establish clear prosocial norms, rules of behavior, and consequences
- Create spaces where youth belong and feel included
- Provide access to age-appropriate and youth-friendly services and resources
Free Webinars:
- November 13 | 12:00 pm CT – Positive Environments
- February 12 | 12:00 pm CT – Positive Relationships
Past Webinar Recordings:
Positive Youth Development Conference
April 21–22, 2025 | Clubhouse, Sioux Falls | 1.5-day event