“Learning to stand in somebody else’s shoes, to see through their eyes, that’s how peace begins. And it’s up to you to make that happen. Empathy is a quality of character that can change the world.” Quote by Barack Obama.
Empathy is a key ingredient in positive friendships and relationships. It reduces conflict and misunderstandings and leads to helping Behaviour, kindness, and even greater success in life in general.
We all have been taught to be kind and compassionate for one and all but are we really implementing it? There are several questions that hits my mind when I see children now a days not being empathetic towards neurodivergent kids. Is it because of lack of understanding, lack of compassion or fear. I realize it is our responsibility to teach our younger ones how to be kind and understanding towards other kids with disabilities or disorders.
Child learn what they see. Let’s pledge to teach our kids kindness and compassion for kids with special needs. Below I have mentioned a few strategies to teach our kids empathy towards neurodivergent kids: –
- Preach what you teach- Sometimes unknowingly we use abusive words in front of our children ignoring the fact that Children are like sponges soaking up all that they see, hear, read and feel around them. Instead display the act of kindness choose your words correctly, avoid labelling any human on the basis of their disabilities or disorder.
- Monitor and educate- Since this generation is too much tech savvy there are several mediums of media that they follow, all we need is to ensure they must listen to positive messaging. Read stories with moral values of kindness, empathy and positivity.
- Duty and responsibility towards society- On Birthdays and other special days encourage them to visit orphanage, old age home or any community service centers. Where they will learn the act of kindness.
- Stop name calling and labelling- It is never appropriate to label anyone on the basis of their body, colour, religion or cast. We need to ensure not to do same in front of our children and correct them when observed doing same.
- Praise their empathetic Behaviour- As many times your child showing act of kindness and empathetic Behaviour do not miss a chance to acknowledge and appreciate them. This may encourage such acts in future as well.
Counsel your child often and encourage them doing community work. Raising children and instilling good ethical, mental, personal and physical attitudes in children is necessary and so is finding some inspiration to excel at this incredibly difficult task in the best possible way, to swap lows with highs. This selfless, unconditional love and nurturing is what turns a bud into a blossoming flower.
