With so many holidays in December, it’s a perfect time to introduce your child to the idea of generosity. And this time of year presents so many opportunities to do it!
For children, learning to be generous starts with lessons about sharing, kindness, and understanding that their actions affect others. These skills set the stage for social emotional development that is so vital to nurturing a child who can control feelings, communicate effectively, solve problems, and work well with others.
Thankfully, one of the easiest ways to encourage these positive behaviors each day through is by being an example to your child. While this includes generous behaviors, like giving of your time, it also means talking about emotions. Discussing feelings is another great way for children to understand that everyone experiences emotions and deserves kindness.
Raising a compassionate child may be easier than you think and be a gift all year round.
This topic is a key component of the following early learning domains and goals:
Click here to learn more about the State of Alaska Early Learning Guidelines
Educational Domain: Social & Emotional Development
Goal: Children demonstrate awareness of behavior and its effects
Goal: Children demonstrate empathy for others
Goal: Children demonstrate awareness of their community, human interdependence, and social roles
Goal: Children demonstrate civic responsibility
