A two-minute lesson in strengths-based case work. The fastest way to move a youth forward isn't advice — it's a question that helps them see what's already working. Keep one of these in your pocket for every touchpoint: check-ins, outreach calls, hallway conversations. Tap any question to copy it, then paste it straight into your touchpoint note so the next conversation picks up where this one left off.
Ask it open, leave it open. No yes/no follow-up. Let the question breathe — silence is the youth thinking, not the conversation failing.
Follow the energy. When their voice picks up, that's the thread. Ask the next question about that, not the next one on your list.
Reflect their words back. Use their exact language in your reply and your case note. "You said you bounce back because of your grandmother — tell me about her."
Land on one small step. Every strengths conversation ends the same way: one small, manageable thing they choose. That's your next touchpoint's opener.
