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- 06 Oct
Make A Difference Without Talking
Children hear teachers, parents, caregivers and grandparents urge them to show kindness, stand up to the bully, and do the right thing. Good advice but not always easy for children to follow. They may see someone who is sad or lonely or hear someone say hurtful words to a friend but do not know how to take action to show they care.
Here are six tips for adults to help children express compassion without saying a word.1. LISTEN WITH YOUR HEART
Step into your “heart brain” – the silent voice inside which expresses genuine compassion for the pain you see and hear around you. Acknowledge the need for kindness.2. ACT WITH KINDNESS
Refuse to participate in negativity generated by fault finding. Being present with the person who is the subject of criticism, not turning your back, speaks volumes.3. RESPOND WITH IMAGINATION
Be brave and make room at the lunch table, include others in activities, draw a picture to share, write a note, or help with homework.4. CONNECT WITH RESPECT
Reach out to people in difficult situations. No one deserves to be laughed at or teased with hurtful words. A smile for the “new” person makes a quick connection.5. SHARE YOUR AUTHENTIC SELF
There are many ways to show kindness. Select an action that matches an interest you have – reading, playing sports or video games, drawing, collecting and singing or whatever makes you smile.6. FEEL JOY WITHOUT REWARD
When you show kindness to others, you feel good inside and also help others feel good about themselves. Be a “first responder.” When children describe “first responder” behavior, listen with no agenda. Your engaged silence demonstrates respect – a powerful lesson which needs no words.
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