Children (also known as infants, youngsters and teens) are human beings between the stages of birth and puberty.
They are a vital group of people with unique needs. Children must be provided with a solid base, in order to thrive. This is done by providing love, care and guidance. Then, as they grow older, they must be provided with tools to navigate life’s challenges. When a child is provided with a solid foundation, they will be better equipped to reach out and help others.
A child’s ability to empathize with other people and have good boundaries is essential for his or her well-being. This can be taught and nurtured by parents, teachers, peers and other adults. Parents can set a positive example by avoiding harsh language and behaving in a calm, respectful manner. They can also help children manage their emotions by listening to them and paraphrasing what they’re saying until both people feel understood. Parents can also model good boundaries by resolving conflicts and limiting negative behaviors like aggression, lying, or stealing.
Teaching children to be kind can begin with kissing their boo-boos, reading them cozy bedtime stories and encouraging them to share their toys. But it can also involve giving them real responsibilities and praising them for their efforts. Having the chance to learn through trial and error, practice a task over and over again until it’s mastered, and being recognized for their hard work will help them develop empathy, self-reliance, responsibility and integrity.
Another way to foster these characteristics is by making a commitment to serve others in your community and the world. It can be as simple as regularly volunteering at a soup kitchen or as complex as donating money to a charity. Whatever the specific activity, it’s important to research charities before deciding where to invest your time and money. This will ensure that the organization’s values match your own.
Ultimately, the most powerful way to teach kids about caring is by modeling it in your own life. Make it a habit to regularly engage in service and to encourage your child to do the same. When you notice your child being kind to someone else, acknowledge their act and let them know that you appreciate it. Similarly, if your child makes a mistake, wait until you’re calm and then tell them how you plan to handle it differently next time. This will teach them how to be honest with themselves and others, and how to recover from a difficult situation.