The cockroach in my dryer was a shock until I realized a) it was plastic and b) a gift from a student that had ended up in my pocket and gone through the wash. I added it to the bowl with lilac from Ford, rock from Ava, sequin from Caroline, golf ball from Max, and bamboo from Alex Y. (Notes and pictures in my pocket end up in the lint trap). Almost every day a child hands over a treasure, saying, “This is for you.” Most young children love to give treasures. When we expand on this desire by encouraging them to give to others in need, we help them develop social skills and self-esteem and make their world a better place to be in.
Raising kind-hearted children is a goal most of us strive for but it can be challenging given the increasing brutality and just plain poor behavior children are exposed to in the media and real–life. Encouraging charitable work is one way to encourage caring. Donating goods and/or time also provides a gentle introduction to the big world. A child that helps others now is more likely to continue to help others when he/she is an adult.
Keep it simple and fun. Pick a cause they can understand. Rain forest animal extinction is something most young children have a hard time understanding and, even more importantly, is frightening. Helping to clean the park they play in, picking out clothes or toys for someone who doesn’t have many, or making a card for a shut-in provides them with a cause they can influence and comprehend. Consider providing them with some choices to increase their buy-in. Just as important, describe the benefits of their actions and show appreciation for what they did.
Four Day visited the Humane Society Silicon Valley (HSSV) in September. Jaimee, the educational expert, had a discussion with the class on what animals need, and we toured the cats, dogs, and rabbits. A donation drive resulted after our visit with dog biscuit kid cookies to celebrate the end. The kids had seen what the center did and the animals they would help. When I dropped off the “loot”, I took a picture of Jaimee, with the donated goods. At meeting time, I shared the picture with the class and the fact that the kittens were in need of kitten food and toys that day. I thanked them again. The class was excited and intrigued throughout the process and we will make this a yearly event. Find a cause for your family and let the benefits begin!
- Teacher Suzanne
