How to Raise a Compassionate Child*

Compassion is a wonderful trait to possess and something that parents can help their children develop from a young age. It’s all about teaching them to treat people with kindness and empathy, by being respectful and supportive. Here are some tips for raising a compassionate child, from a private college in Berkshire.

Be a Good Role Model

The best way to raise a compassionate child is to demonstrate compassion yourself. Show your child what it means to be kind and well-mannered when speaking to others. Maintain your composure even if you’re feeling frustrated and want to shout at someone. For instance, if a waitress messes up your order when you’re out for dinner, show your child how to handle the problem without being unkind to the waitress. Being kind to animals is a great way to demonstrate caring and compassionate behavior.

Encourage Helpfulness

Part of being a compassionate person is knowing when someone needs help and being there to offer it. With that said, encourage your child to help others whenever you can. Perhaps you have an elderly or disabled neighbour who needs help carrying the shopping in from the car or mowing the lawn, in which case you could encourage your child to volunteer to help. Even given them chores to do at home will teach them to help out and work as part of a team.

Praise Compassionate Behaviour

When your child is playing with their friends or siblings and you notice that they’re sharing nicely and being kind, be sure to let them know that you are proud of them and why. Likewise, if they have been nasty, let them know that it’s not okay and ask them to think about how their behaviour might have made their friend/sibling feel. Ask them how they would feel if someone treated them that way. This will help them develop empathy and they will start to consider how their actions can impact others.

Hopefully these tips will help you raise a compassionate child. Because this world really needs them.