Nurturing Kindness in Young Children
Written by RaDeana Montgomery, RAM Media
Even before children outwardly display acts of kindness, they can already feel empathy. As a home child care provider, you can help children express these emotions by engaging in discussion and introducing them to the ideas of empathy, generosity, and kindness in an understandable and meaningful manner. Imparting the value of kindness to children is one of the most crucial lessons we can give future generations. But, fostering compassion begins with leading by example.
Children are exceptionally perceptive and often learn how to treat others by closely observing the adults in their lives. As a caregiver, you have an opportunity to model kindness in every interaction with your children. Leading by example allows children to observe and emulate your behaviour. Small acts of kindness like holding the door open for someone else, offering to help, or just saying hello when out for a walk are great ways to teach children about the power of kindness.
As adults, we understand that there are times when being kind to someone can be difficult, particularly when that person hasn’t been very kind to us. Yet, one of the most valuable lessons we can impart to the children is the importance of doing what is right and showing kindness when it’s difficult. Once more, it’s essential to lead by example so they can learn from our actions.
Utilizing personal stories, providers can share their own experiences to illustrate the impact of kindness, generosity, and empathy in real-life situations. Share examples of when you received kindness from others, including the children in your care, or when you extended kindness to someone else. Always highlight the positive emotions you felt from receiving or giving kindness. Alternatively, encourage children to reflect on their acts of kindness and consider the positive emotions they experience when they are generous and compassionate. This practice will help them learn to be kind without expecting rewards and to derive satisfaction from their benevolent actions.
Young children may still lack the vocabulary to articulate their emotions effectively. You can assist them in finding words to express their feelings by acknowledging and naming the emotions they are experiencing. This approach can also help them relate to and recognize similar emotions in others. Open communication about emotions is crucial. When your child is upset or frustrated, encourage them to express why they feel that way. Create a safe space for them to share their feelings, reassuring them that you are always there to listen. Helping children make sense of their emotions and facilitating their ability to identify them in others equips them with valuable skills for building positive relationships and friendships with peers. This also empowers them to express themselves in group settings confidently.
In summary, teaching kindness to children benefits them individually and creates a more compassionate, inclusive, and harmonious society. Kindness equips children with the skills and values necessary to navigate a complex and interconnected world while promoting their own well-being and that of those around them.