The core of our work has always been about helping kids find their ‘natural high’ — an interest, an activity, or a talent that sparks a feeling that only comes from savoring joyful moments and pursuing your passions in life.
We educate teachers and parents to guide students to understand themselves better and make healthier choices so they can thrive. It just makes sense: rather than try to scare kids away from drugs and alcohol, steer them towards positive action, feeling, and interests.
Little did we know this would eventually be supported by one of the most powerful studies ever done on how to help youth thrive.
Why Sparks Matter
Every young person carries a spark inside them. A spark is an activity, talent, or interest that lights them up from within. It’s the joy of playing music, the thrill of scoring a goal, the calm of painting, or the pride of helping others.
When kids discover their spark, they gain more than a pastime. They find energy, purpose, and strength that helps them thrive. Research shows the teenage brain is wired for novelty and reward.
That wiring makes risky choices tempting, but it also makes healthy, passion-driven experiences incredibly powerful.
These sparks give the brain the same burst of joy and satisfaction—without drugs or alcohol. The same reward system makes teens especially sensitive to drug cues, so building healthy rewards helps keep them on track.
Learn more by watching our short video on The Science of Joy: Exploring Dopamine and Natural Highs.
The Research That Changed Everything
In 1989, Dr. Peter Benson of the Search Institute asked a simple but bold question: What if youth development focused on strengths instead of weaknesses?
At the time, most programs told kids what not to do. Benson turned the spotlight on what helps them grow. His developmental assets framework became one of the most influential approaches in the world, used in more than 60 countries.
We highly recommend watching Peter Benson’s powerful TED talk.
After interviewing and tracking thousands of kids, he found one clear truth: young people who discovered their spark were more likely to thrive. They were healthier, more confident, and more successful as they grew into adulthood.
What Is a Spark?
Benson’s research shows a spark:
- Brings energy and joy
- Creates a sense of purpose and meaning
- Absorbs attention until you lose track of time
- Comes from within, not from pressure outside
- Motivates action and persistence
- Can inspire good in the world
He identified over 220 sparks. They include:
- Creativity through art, music, dance, photography, or writing
- Sports and outdoor adventure
- Service, teaching, or advocacy
- Science, engineering, or problem-solving
- Leadership or entrepreneurship
- Spirituality and community building
A spark is what we call a natural high.
It is that passion or pursuit that lights kids up from the inside. It brings joy, focus, and direction. It also gives them the courage to say no to unhealthy choices.
How to Spot Your Child’s Natural High
Pay attention to the moments when your child seems most alive. What makes their eyes light up? What do they lose themselves in?
Some kids already know their natural high. Others are still searching. Either way, you play a powerful role in helping them discover it and grow into it.
Practical Steps You Can Take Today
Here are a few ways to guide your child toward their natural high:
- Watch Peter Benson’s TED Talk. His message can reshape the way you see your role as a parent or educator.
- Start a conversation. Ask your child what excites them. If they already know, dig deeper. What do they love most? Do they feel supported? How can you help?
- Show them role models. Explore our library of 50+ Natural High Storytellers who share how their passions guided them away from drugs and toward their dreams.
- Keep learning. Benson’s book Sparks: How Parents Can Ignite the Hidden Strengths of Teenagers offers practical tools to support kids.
Why This Matters
A natural high isn’t just a hobby. It’s a shield.
It’s a source of purpose that can protect kids when life gets hard and when choices get complicated.
When kids are lit up from the inside, they stand taller. They find resilience. They say “no” to what holds them back and “yes” to what carries them forward.
And that is where you come in. Your encouragement, your questions, and your belief can help unlock their natural high. That small spark could change the entire course of their life.
Together, we can help kids find the passion that makes them come alive. When they protect that light, they protect their future.
For more detail on the steps you can take to recognize and cultivate your child’s spark. Read the 5 Ways To Help Your Child Find and Cultivate Their Natural High.
