Although all gender stereotypes are becoming less rigid, girls are given more flexibility than boys. The typically "feminine" traits of compassion and kindness are critical to the healthy development of all our children. Here are ways to assure that your boys receive those essential lessons in empathy as they grow toward being caring, compassionate, charitable men.
Raising Upstanding Children
It can be difficult to take action in support of our values and beliefs, especially when it involves some personal risk. If you would like your children to be among those admirable people with the courage to be "upstanding", rather than bystanding, here are some strategies to help them along.
Cultivating a Sense of Wonder and Awe in Our Children
We all know that amazing sensation of feeling part of something much larger than ourselves, of being upended by the vastness of the night sky or the intensity of great music. Research indicates that experiencing these magical feelings also changes how we approach our lives. It can make us more satisfied, less self-involved, less likely to feel starved for time, more grateful and more likely to help others.
Raising Courage: Teaching Kids To Do The Right Thing
Although our kids know right from wrong, acting on that knowledge can be surprisingly difficult-and even scary. Courage can fortify them to live and honor their deepest values. We offer tips for encouraging kids to act bravely.
6 Tips for Raising Kids Who Don't Cheat
According to researchers, the number of students who cheat at school has risen dramatically in the last 50 years. One survey found that an astounding 95% of high school students admitted to some kind of cheating. Here are tips to help keep your children focused on integrity and combat the pressure to achieve at any cost.
Coming Together for Good: Find a Group Project to Fit Your Family
Making service a group endeavor not only means more fun, but it "puts kindness on the calendar" so doing good is more likely to become part of your routine. No need to start big. Make your first community effort bite-sized, and see how it goes. Then, if it works for everyone, plan to spend more regular time with family, friends and neighbors serving others. Here are a few ideas for getting started.
Mind the Manners
Raising a "Green" Child
Teaching children to love the earth is a job more and more parents are taking seriously. In honor of Earth Day's 45th anniversary (April 22, 2015), we provide some easy tips for raising an eco-smart child.
Make It Fun for Kids to Give Back
Summer is for family and fun, but that doesn't mean that kindness and service need to take a holiday. These lazy days provide all sorts of opportunities to keep exercising that kindness muscle and remind little ones that there is great joy in giving. These eight activities will help you create a memorable, heart-filled summer.