People may not always remember what we tell them, but they often remember what they see us do.
As Child and Youth Care Workers, we often think that teaching happens during planned conversations, structured activities, or intentional life-skills sessions. While those moments are important, some of the most meaningful lessons happen quietly: through our everyday actions. This is what we call The Ripple Effect.
Today, Mr. Goalie and I spent the day fishing in Flatrock, Newfoundland and Labrador. It was a beautiful day on the water, and together we caught fifteen fish, including mackerel and Atlantic herring. The fishing itself was enjoyable, but what happened beyond catching fish reminded me why consistency matters so much in our work.
One of the principles I try to practice is allowing young people to see me live the routines and values I hope they will eventually adopt. Rather than simply telling them to build healthy habits, I let them observe mine. Whether it's brushing my teeth before bed, taking a shower in the morning, cleaning up after myself, or following through on commitments, I try to model consistency in everyday life. These ordinary actions may seem small, but they communicate something powerful: this is how we care for ourselves and others.
At the fishing spot, another person nearby was having difficulty catching fish. I took a few moments to help by explaining what lure to use and offering some basic fishing tips. As I did, something unexpected happened. The young person I was supporting stepped in and began helping as well, showing the other person how to cast a fishing line.
I hadn't asked him to do that.
I hadn't given him a lesson about helping others.
He simply observed, and then he acted.
That moment reminded me that our influence often extends further than we realize. Young people are constantly watching how we respond to people, how we solve problems, how we treat strangers, and how we handle everyday situations. Our actions create ripples that spread outward.
On the drive home, I told him how proud I was of him. I praised him for taking the initiative to help someone else and acknowledged the kindness and confidence he demonstrated. His smile said more than words could.
As Child and Youth Care Workers, we are not only mentors during formal interventions; we are role models in the ordinary moments. Consistency, authenticity, and everyday actions shape relationships built on trust. Over time, those small moments create lasting change.
The ripple effect reminds us that every positive action has the potential to inspire another. A simple act of kindness can encourage another act of kindness. A healthy routine can become someone else's routine. A moment of encouragement can build confidence that lasts well beyond that day.
Our work is not always measured by immediate outcomes. Sometimes the greatest impact is seen when a young person quietly begins to reflect the values they have consistently observed in us.
May we never underestimate the influence of our everyday actions. The ripples we create today may become the waves that carry a young person toward a brighter future.
