When working with young people, the decisions we make carry significant weight. They can shape program outcomes, influence youth development, and either strengthen or undermine our organizational culture. By implementing a structured approach to decision-making, adults working with kids can ensure their choices best serve the young people in their care.

A Framework for Responsible Decisions

The 6 R’s framework offers a practical approach to more thoughtful and meaningful decisions in your work with youth. Each step builds upon the previous one, creating a comprehensive process that leads to more effective outcomes.

Recognize

Identify the decision point and understand its significance

The first step is becoming aware that a decision needs to be made. This sounds simple, but many of us rush past this crucial stage, failing to recognize decision moments until we’re already reacting.

Practical strategies:

• Pause when you feel pressure building in a situation
• Listen for phrases like “We need to figure out what to do about…”
• Notice when you feel uncomfortable about a current approach
• Ask: “Is this a minor decision I can make quickly, or a significant one that deserves more attention?“

Example: When noticing declining attendance, recognize this as a decision point rather than just an observation. This recognition allows you to address the issue proactively instead of waiting until the problem worsens.

Reflect

Consider your values, emotional state, and others’ perspectives

Before jumping to solutions, take time to reflect on the factors that should influence your decision. This means examining what’s important to you and your emotions, while also considering the needs and perspectives of everyone affected by your choice.

Practical strategies:

• Identify the core values that should guide this particular decision
• Check in with your emotional state—are you stressed, frustrated, or calm?
• List the people affected by this decision, especially the youth
• Consider how your personal biases might influence your thinking
• Ask: “Whose voices need to be heard before I move forward?”

Example: When deciding whether to implement a new behavioral management system, reflect on your organization or school’s approach to student autonomy and growth. Consider how various approaches might affect kids in your program, particularly those who may have experienced trauma or have special needs.

Research

Gather information and explore available options

Making informed decisions requires good information. This step involves collecting relevant data, exploring multiple options, and learning from others’ experiences.

Practical strategies:

• Consult research and best practices relevant to the decision
• Talk with colleagues who have faced similar situations
• Gather input from youth when appropriate
• Explore at least three possible approaches to address the situation
• Ask: “What don’t I know yet that could significantly impact this decision?”

Example: Before changing your program or learning schedule, understand developmental needs of your age group, collect feedback from kids and families, and learn how similar schools or organizations structure their time. This information provides a foundation for a well-informed decision.

Reason

Analyze potential outcomes and implications of each option

With information in hand, it’s time to think critically about the likely consequences of different choices. This step involves predicting outcomes, weighing trade-offs, and considering both short and long-term impacts.

Practical strategies:

• For each option, list potential positive and negative outcomes
• Consider immediate effects as well as long-term implications
• Evaluate resource requirements for different approaches
• Think through unintended consequences
• Ask: “How does each option align with our mission and the needs of our kids?”

Example: When reasoning through options for addressing conflict between kids, analyze how different intervention approaches might affect group dynamics, individual relationships, and youth skill development. Consider both the immediate resolution and the precedent your approach sets.

Resolve

Make a choice aligned with positive youth development principles

After thorough consideration, it’s time to make your decision. This step requires commitment to a course of action based on your values and the information you’ve gathered.

Practical strategies:

• Choose the option that best serves youth while being feasible
• Document your decision and your rationale
• Develop a clear implementation plan with specific steps
• Communicate your decision clearly to others

Example: After considering options for addressing declining attendance, you resolve to implement a youth-led program planning committee that gives participants more ownership. You document this decision, create an implementation timeline, and communicate the change to staff, kids, and families.

Review

Evaluate results and extract lessons for future decisions

The decision-making process doesn’t end with implementation. Reviewing outcomes helps you learn from experience and adjust course if needed.

Practical strategies:

• Schedule a specific time to evaluate the decision’s impact
• Collect feedback from others, especially kids
• Document lessons learned for future reference
• Be willing to adjust your approach based on what you learn
• Ask: “What would I do differently next time, and what worked well?”

Example: Three months after implementing your youth-led planning committee, review attendance data and gather feedback from students and staff. Use what you learn to refine the approach and document insights for future program adjustments.

Building a Culture of Thoughtful Decision-Making

The 6 R’s framework isn’t just for individual decisions—it can transform how your entire organization approaches challenges and opportunities. By modeling and teaching this process, you create a culture where all staff members:

• Take appropriate time for important decisions
• Base choices on values and evidence rather than convenience
• Consider diverse perspectives before moving forward
• Learn continuously from experience
• Model responsible decision-making for students

Strong decision-making isn’t about always making perfect choices—it’s about approaching decisions with intention, care, and a commitment to growth. By practicing the 6 R’s, you strengthen your ability to navigate complex situations while modeling valuable skills for the young people you serve.