"Being an empath means that you feel other people's feelings as though they were your own" ~ Antesa Jensen
Connecting human intellect and emotions is a crucial task that should be developed in children at a young age. Empathy is an essential skill
that allows individuals to understand and feel what others are experiencing from their perspective and communicate that understanding to them. Are you a proud parent or guardian who wants to give your child the best possible start in life? If so, then you're in the right place! Keep reading to discover some great tips and tricks for raising your little one to be a smart, curious, and confident individual.
Youth
The art of growing up involves navigating the delicate balance between coming together and breaking apart. Youth encompasses a broad range of skills and attributes, including intellectual capabilities, perspective, and all-around personal growth. Studies on the development of children show that changes in daily moods can have a significant impact on their emotional development. It is important to recognize and support this aspect of their growth.
Why?
Empathy is one of the most important aspects of creating strong relationships, reducing stress, enhancing emotional awareness and many more. Although it can be quite disingenuous.
The small acts of kindness and emotions directed towards empathy can develop a sense of peace, connection, and perspective that one likes. At the same time, its absence can often exaggerate stress levels, disconnection with oneself, and negativity.
I recently came across a heartwarming incident in my locality where an unknown person had built a cozy and comfortable shelter for a stray dog. It was a truly generous act that made a big difference in the dog's life.
Existing with empathy:
Empathy, it is not just a fixed trait that some children are born with and others lack. Rather, empathy is a skill that can be cultivated through meaningful teachings and moral courage. It requires effort and time, but the result is worth it. By emphasizing non-physical acts of compassion through storytelling and other forms of communication, children can learn to view the world more holistically. This can lead to a sense of selfless leadership that motivates children to positively impact those around them. By acknowledging and identifying the emotions and needs of others, children can learn to be more empathetic. And with positive reinforcement and cultural norms, children can develop attitudes that are more compassionate and understanding.
Parents involvement:
Becoming a parent is a life-altering experience that brings immense joy and a whole lot of responsibilities. As parents, they play a crucial role in ensuring the holistic growth of our little ones, from their physical and mental development to their social and empathetic skills. They are the essential bridge that connects their children to their self-discovery journey. Here are some pointers that can help guardians and parents develop the child's potential to the fullest:
- 3-5 years
- Read stories and discuss the feelings of characters.
- Coach their social skills in a friendly way.
- Use picture cutouts, pictures that show emotions, etc.
- Use observations and notice vice-versa.
- Teach about ‘Healthy Limits’ and their boundaries.
- Sign up for acting classes.
- Create Empathy Maps - choose an emotion, then brainstorm
- 11 & Above
- Discuss current events.
- Encourage children to be involved in VOLUNTARY work.
- Try activities that promote emotional spreads.
Frequently, individuals unknowingly cause harm to others due to a deficiency in their capacity to consider and comprehend the consequences of their behaviour and language toward others. In the absence of empathy and consideration for others, it is effortless to behave in ways that result in pain. So, on that note let’s take the pledge to raise our children with compassion and foster empathy in our children.
Author: Tanishka Sharma, a student volunteer at the STRAW organization, is highly fascinated by the inarticulate beings; she adores and admires the enriched activities that are valuable for well beings of others.