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In times like these, when current events are more unsettling than usual, and things generally seem chaotic around us, it is important for us to be able to speak to our children in a way that will reach them, calm them, and maybe even give them some wisdom that they can put to use in their lives.
There is a universal concept that we are all connected. Some will say that we are all connected because we are all human beings, and we all live on earth and enjoy mother nature. Others will say that we are all connected because we all have a heart, and lungs, and blood running through our veins.
The way I choose to explain our connection to each other, is the way I've come to describe it throughout the years. We are all connected by the light we carry within us and share outside of us. The actions we take in our own lives can and do affect the world around us.
This concept, can help us understand both sides of the coin.
The negative side, If we choose negative actions, we can hurt others close to us, far from us, and even those we don’t know and might not ever meet.
The positive side, Every positive choice I make, creates a ripple effect that nourishes the people close to us, far from us, and even those we might not ever meet.
We may not ever find out the true reason why negative things occur in our surroundings. This is true both on a large scale, such as yesterday’s terrible tragedy, or on a small scale, such as an argument with a friend or a bad day at school. What we do have an opportunity to do though, is choose our reaction to these situations and helping our kids explore their reactions to these situations so we can assist them in coming to place of seeing them as an opportunity to be proactive, even in the toughest of challenges.
The concept of We are All Connected can help children understand that although many people are in pain and hurting, we are all connected by the light inside, and their daily actions of tolerance, human dignity, and sharing, can make a difference in the world around them.
Here are some activities that you can do with your kids to help them exercise this:
Care for someone by thinking of a classmate that might have a hard time making friends and practice sharing with them by planning a playdate or spending some time with them during school time.
Sit with the family or a close group of friends, list some ways everyone may have not been so tolerant of others lately and make a commitment to do things differently. (Adults share first so children will feel more at ease to be honest)
Find ways to connect with people that have had a challenging time lately, write them a letter of encouragement and send it in the mail.
Look for volunteer opportunities in your neighborhood and plan an hour out of the week to volunteer together.
Interested in private or group workshops for your kids based on concepts like these? Email me.