There are many protective factors associated with resilience, but there are three fundamental aspects that are seen to be vital, known as the three building blocks:
- A secure base and sound attachments with carers
- Good self-esteem and self-worth
- Self–efficacy or a sense of mastery and control
These three building blocks have been developed into a framework for assessment and planning and consists of the following six domains (Daniel and Wassell, 2002). These are detailed below with key questions that will be considered in the context of each of the domains.
- Secure base
Understanding a child’s attachments with parents and carers, as well as the factors in the community that add to their attachment networks.
- Education
Supporting the child’s interest in learning and understanding how the family network can support this, exploring opportunities in the community to support any curiosity in learning.
- Friendships
Drawing on the characteristics that support the child to form friendships and understanding the child’s friendships in the community. What are the ways in which family can support the child to build friendships?
- Talents and interests
Drawing on the child’s interests and talents. How are these supported at home? Availability of opportunities to develop these in the community.
- Positive values
The understanding of their own feelings and empathy for others. An opportunity to explore moral reasoning and understanding. Opportunities to help at home and in the local community.
- Social Competencies
The social competencies supported by the characteristics and strengths in a child. Ways to support self-management when facing challenges, strategies to build social competence. Ways to encourage social competencies at home and in the community.