For Don Bosco and Mary Mazzarello a homely and family atmosphere always created a welcoming and warm atmosphere for the young people in their care. The educator and the young person relate to each other in a way that:
- Expresses genuine interest
- Shows a readiness to engage in an educative way in all areas in the life of the young person
- Shows care and compassion
- Is respectful and reasonable and aware of the good of all.
'Make yourself loved, not feared' became a Salesian maxim.
