Compassion is an essential quality in humans. It is something that is expected across the world as it helps strive for a better place to live. It is important for children to understand and develop compassion as it leads to healthier relationships and makes them caring individuals. As a parent, you play vital role in teaching your child to be compassionate. Below is a guide on how to raise a compassionate child.
Model compassion
It is common knowledge that a child’s brain is like a sponge. When you speak and behave in a certain way, your child is continuously watching and listening. Given that children learn best by observing and imitating their parents, it is crucial that you set the correct example to begin with. Show kindness, empathy and understanding to others, whether it is a friend, family member or stranger in the shop. As your child absorbs the way you speak and respond to others, eventually they will adopt the same behaviour.
Teach your child empathy
Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. When it comes to school and other situations in life, your child needs to know the correct way to behave and when it is necessary to show empathy. Encourage your child to try and put themselves in other people’s shoes and imagine how they would feel if they were going through the same thing. For example, if your child notices that their classmate is upset, encourage them to ask them what is wrong and how they can help.
Encourage acts of kindness
Kindness is an important ingredient in the recipe for compassion. Teach your child to show acts of kindness when appropriate such as sharing their toys with peers or sitting with someone who looks lonely at lunch. Be sure to acknowledge and praise your child’s efforts as this will help them understand how their actions can make a big difference to someone’s life.
