Defining compassion in front of children can be a difficult task, especially when they won’t be aware of all the terminology and reasoning behind it. But you can begin to direct your child using a number of tips and tricks to train your child into developing actions that promote kindness and integrity. This senior school in Guildford has provided some ways you can do this from a young age.
Actively encourage help
Compassion training can effectively start right from when your child is born. When they grow older they’re able to pick up on a lot of mannerisms and actions their parents do, which is where you should ask them for their help. Get them into the habit of finding ways they can help out, even if it’s just moving toys around and tidying their play area. As they do this, be sure to praise them for a job well done.
Focus on your child’s strengths
We have our own strengths and weaknesses which can be used to our advantage when building our child’s awareness of how to be compassionate. Your child might really enjoy playing with their friends but struggle to pick up new hobbies and interests. Show your child how engaged they are when hanging out with their friends and how that can help them socialise with new people in the activities they want to try out. Showing your child that you’re aware of their best talents will improve their understanding of compassion and self-esteem.
Practice self care with your child
There’s a lot of things going on in your child’s week, from nursery or school, making friends and socialising to studying, learning and embracing lots of new things. All of this and more can mean your child forgets to take time for themselves to appreciate the finer things. Have a chance to show them how to take moments in self care, like keeping their room clean, having a dessert they love, or reading a book quietly.
