Our Christmas season is here, and it's a time for joy and togetherness. Let's make it extra special by keeping things simple and easy. Here are ten ideas for parents and kids to enjoy the Christmas season. These ideas can be applied to all religions and spiritual beliefs.

Breathe and Relax: Take a moment to sit and breathe. Close your eyes and feel your breath. It helps you feel calm and happy. Try doing this with your child—breathe in, breathe out, and enjoy the peace together.

Breathe in Peace Together

 

Nature, Music, and Art Fun: Walk outside and enjoy nature. Listen to music that makes you smile. Look at pictures or draw something fun. These simple things can bring happiness to your family.

Nature Fills Hearts

 

Sunshine and Sunset Magic: Look at the sunshine on the trees in the morning. In the night, gaze at the sunset and stars. Talk with your child about how big and amazing the world is. It's a simple way to feel connected to something greater.

Feel Connected to Something Greater

 

Love for a Little Flower: Find a pretty flower and look at it closely. Notice the colors and shapes. Talk about how even the small things can be beautiful. It's like finding joy in the simple moments of life.

Treasure Beautiful Flowers

 

Rainy Day Freshness: After the rain, step outside. Take a deep breath of the fresh air. It's like a new beginning. Show your child how rain can make everything clean and happy.

 Smell the Air After a Rain

 

Happy Music Time: Play Christmas music that makes you happy at home. Dance or sing along with your child. It's a simple way to have fun together and make joyful memories.

Dance with Joy

 

Hum or Sing Along: Encourage your child to hum or sing their favorite tunes. It's a way to express joy without words. Join in, and let the music be a happy part of your day.

Make Music Together

 

Art Gifts from the Heart: Encourage your child to create something special and give it to someone you they about. It's not about being perfect; it's about sharing joy and love.

 

Make Simple Gifts from the Heart

 

World's Beauty Talk: Talk with your child about how beautiful the world is, even when things are tough. Share stories of kindness and good things from your own life. It helps your child see the world in a positive light.

 

Enjoy the Beauty Surrounding Us

 

Creation and Loving Spirit Talks: Have simple talks about how the world was made and the love that's all around us. It's like talking about the magic of life. Let your child share their thoughts too.

 

Talk about the Magic of Life

Christmas is about making moments count, even with simple things. These ideas are easy for parents and kids to enjoy together. Remember, joy is found in the little things; you can create special memories that last a lifetime. Enjoy the Christmas spirit with your loved ones, and may your days be filled with happiness and warmth.

 

Like this post? Please comment and share it with your friends on social media.

Thank you so much.

With warm wishes, 

Jean Tracy

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• 80 Fun Activities to Share with Your Kids
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Our Christmas season is here, and it's a time for joy and togetherness. Let's make it extra special by keeping things simple and easy. Here are ten easy ideas for parents and kids to enjoy the Christmas season. These ideas can be applied to all religions and spiritual beliefs.

Breathe and Relax: Take a moment to sit and breathe. Close your eyes and feel your breath. It helps you feel calm and happy. Try doing this with your child—breathe in, breathe out, and enjoy the peace together.

 

                                                            Breathe in Together in Peace

 

Nature, Music, and Art Fun: Walk outside and enjoy nature. Listen to music that makes you smile. Look at pictures or draw something fun. These simple things can bring happiness to your family.

Nature Fills Hearts

 

Sunshine and Sunset Magic: Look at the sunshine on the trees in the morning. In the night, gaze at the sunset and stars. Talk with your child about how big and amazing the world is. It's a simple way to feel connected to something greater.

Feel Connected to Something Greater

 

Love for a Little Flower: Find a pretty flower and look at it closely. Notice the colors and shapes. Talk about how even the small things can be beautiful. It's like finding joy in the simple moments of life.

 

Treasure Beautiful Flowers

 

Rainy Day Freshness: After the rain, step outside. Take a deep breath of the fresh air. It's like a new beginning. Show your child how rain can make everything clean and happy.

 

 

Enjoy The Smell of Air After Rain

 

Happy Music Time: Play Christmas music that makes you happy at home. Dance or sing along with your child. It's a simple way to have fun together and make joyful memories.

 

 

Dance with Joy

 

Hum or Sing Along: Encourage your child to hum or sing their favorite tunes. It's a way to express joy without words. Join in, and let the music be a happy part of your day.

 

Make Music Together

 

Art Gifts from the Heart: Make art together. Create something special and give it to someone you care about. It's not about being perfect; it's about sharing joy and love.

 

Make Simple Gifts with Love

 

World's Beauty Talk: Talk with your child about how beautiful the world is, even when things are tough. Share stories of kindness and good things from your own life. It helps your child see the world in a positive light.

 

Talk about Life and the Beautiful World

 

Creation and Loving Spirit Talks: Have simple talks about how the world was made and the love that's all around us. It's like talking about the magic of life. Let your child share their thoughts too.

Talking about the Magic of Life

Christmas is about making moments count, even with simple things. These ideas are easy for parents and kids to enjoy together. Remember, joy is found in the little things; you can create special memories that last a lifetime. Enjoy the Christmas spirit with your loved ones, and may your days be filled with happiness and warmth.

Like this post? Please comment and share it with your friends on social media.

Thank you so much.

With warm wishes, 

Jean Tracy

Sign up for my FREE Parenting Newsletter 

https://www.KidsDiscuss.com and receive:

• 80 Fun Activities to Share with Your Kids
• 101 Ways to Get Your Children to Cooperate

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Talking about the Magic of Life

Christmas is about making moments count, even with simple things. These ideas are easy for parents and kids to enjoy together. Remember, joy is found in the little things; you can create special memories that last a lifetime. Enjoy the Christmas spirit with your loved ones, and may your days be filled with happiness and warmth.

Like this post? Please comment and share it with your friends on social media.

Thank you so much.

With warm wishes, 

Jean Tracy

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Dilemma Discussion Kit!

Hi, parents! Imagine this: you gather around the dinner table, a warm and inviting space where the world outside fades away. No screens, no distractions—just you and your loved ones, ready to create lasting memories together. Sounds ideal, right? Well, guess what? You can make it a reality!

We are introducing the transformative power of unplugging and connecting as a family. It's time to put those pesky cell phones in their place and rediscover the joy of genuine human connection. Here's how you can make it happen:

Step 1: The Cell Phone Solution: Take charge of your family time by designating a cell phone-free zone during meals. It's a simple yet powerful act that sets the stage for meaningful interactions and undivided attention.

 

Step 2: Teach the Art of Listening: In this fast-paced digital age, listening has become a lost art. But fear not, because you have the power to change that! Guide your children toward becoming attentive listeners with these three simple prompts:

Prompt #1: Let them learn the value of patience. Avoid interrupting the speaker. Please encourage them to wait their turn, listen, and give everyone a chance to express themselves fully.

Prompt #2: Foster the power of eye contact. Show your kids the importance of locking eyes with the person speaking, showing that their words truly matter.

 

Prompt #3: Cultivate curiosity by asking questions. Inspire your kids to ask thoughtful and engaging questions to show their genuine interest in what a member is saying.

Step 3: Sharpen Your Listening Skills: As parents, we must lead by example. Here are three tips to enhance your listening skillset 
:

Tip #1: Time management is key. Set a time limit for each speaker to ensure that everyone gets an opportunity to share their thoughts and experiences. Two minutes per person is a sweet spot.

 

 

Tip #2: Embrace inclusivity. Create an environment where every voice is heard. Encourage open discussions and provide a platform for everyone to express themselves, regardless of age or status.

Tip #3: Confirm and understand. Repeat what the speaker said in your own words. This shows that you were actively listening. It also helps avoid misinterpretations and results in deeper understanding.

Now, let's spice up those family conversations with some open-ended chats! These thought-provoking topics will ignite engaging discussions and bring you closer together:

Topic 1: The best thing that happened in school today. Celebrate achievements, big or small, and share moments of pride and joy.

 

Topic 2: Lessons learned from mistakes. Embrace the power of sharing weakness and growth by discussing mistakes and the valuable insights gained from them.

Topic 3: Unraveling the qualities of a good friend. Explore the attributes that make friendships special and discuss the importance of kindness, loyalty, and support.

Dilemma Discussions: Nurturing Family Values

Dear readers! Today, let's dive into an exciting and engaging way to teach and reinforce those oh-so-important family values: dilemma discussions. It's like a mini adventure where you explore topics like bullying, cheating, lying, gossiping, making friends, and good manners, all while strengthening the bond within your family. So, let's get started on this journey of nurturing values together!

To spark those meaningful conversations, I've got three delightful dilemma discussion examples for you: 

 

Example 1: Sibling Teasing: Pretend your twin brother has a knack for teasing and pulling your hair. Ouch, right? But here's the challenge: can you come up with a positive way to react to his teasing? It's an opportunity to explore empathy, assertiveness, and finding constructive solutions within the family.

Example 2: Homework Honesty: Imagine this, your best friend sneaks a peek at your homework and copies your answers. Uh-oh! How would you respond to this sticky situation? This dilemma discussion opens the door to exploring integrity, honesty, and the importance of standing up for what's right, even when it's challenging.

Example 3: Truth and Consequences: Meet Karen, your friend who fibbed to her mom about going to your house but ended up at the mall instead. Now her mom is calling you to find out Karen's whereabouts. What will you say? This scenario prompts discussions about honesty, trust, and the consequences of our actions.

Our exclusive Dilemma Discussion Kit can take your discussions to the next level. It's packed with 41 more captivating conversations to ignite thought-provoking discussions and help you delve deeper into your family values.

 

Remember, the power of these discussions lies in the connections you'll create, the values you'll reinforce, and the growth you'll inspire. So, let's come together and embrace the magic of dilemma discussions. Get ready for captivating conversations and endless opportunities to nurture your family values!

 

Ready to embark on this values-driven adventure? Grab your Dilemma Discussion Kit today by visiting: https://tinyurl.com/2t83e253. It's your golden key for nurturing strong family bonds and shaping the character of your loved ones.

(Note: The provided link will direct you to our website where you can access the Dilemma Discussion Kit. Happy discussing!)

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Thank you so much.

With warm wishes, 

Jean Tracy

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Parents, who cannot listen, are the worst communicators. They cannot teach effective communication because they don’t practice it. 

Hey there! Are you someone who argues instead of listening to your child? Many parents do. Yet, listening is your most important parenting tool. Don't worry, if you decide to, you can always improve it. There are some habits you might have to brush aside before becoming a good listener.

Today I will share:

5 listening mistakes to avoid

5 simple listening habits to increase

1 simple formula for being your child's best counselor

3 fun listening activities for your family. 

5 Harmful Listening Habits to Avoid as a Parent:

Do you ever:

1. Interrupt your child?
2. Discount your child's opinions?
3. Dismiss your child's feelings?
4. Criticize your child?
5. Lecture your child?

Don't be overly concerned because here are 5 easy listening habits that you can use right now. They'll quickly improve your listening skills.

5 Listening Habits to Learn, Practice, and Model:

 

1. Look your child in the eye.
2. Focus on what they are saying.
3. Remember the key points.
4. Repeat those points in your words.
5. Ask questions to better understand your child.

By practicing these skills, you'll become a better listener. You'll be teaching your child good communication skills too. 

Become Your Child's Best Counselor:

Do you know why counselors are loved by their clients? It's because they are good listeners. They practice the 5 good habits. They also include the 70% Law of Communication, meaning, they listen 70% and speak 30%. As a parent, strive to speak less, listen more, and appreciate your child's thoughts and feelings. As you progress, notice how your relationship with your child strengthens. You'll become your child's best counselor too.

Here are 3 activities to make 'listening' a priority in your family: 

3 Activities for Family Listening:

1. Post a ‘Listening Habit of the Week’ on your refrigerator. Practice that habit in your home and outside your family. ‘Catch your children being good’ with a compliment when they listen well. 
2. The Morning Forecast: Tell your child, “Name something you’re looking forward to today.” The Evening Review: Ask, "What are some things you are grateful about today?"
3. Create free time each day and turn off technology. Use this time to discuss both your day and your child's day. Practice the 70% Law. 

Make 'Listening' a priority in your family. Listening Works!

 

Video - Short Clip - 1.11 minutes 

Sometimes pictures do speak 1,000 words. What do you think?

Like this post? Tell me what you think. Please share it with your friends on social media.

Thank you so much.

With warm wishes, 

Jean Tracy

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Judging character is easy to teach. Coach your child to see how a person acts and hear what she says. Is the other kind, honest, and respectful? Or is she rude, unkind, and dishonest?

Training Your Child to Look for the Good 

Good Character is about being honest and having strong moral values. You can trust an honest person. But a dishonest person signals the red alert, "He lies. I can't trust him." The following questions open your child's eyes to finding good character in others.

Parenting Tip List - How to Ask about Character: 

Consider using these discussions around the kitchen table, in the car, or at bedtime.

1. Reject fault-finding in classmates.

• How can the habit of finding fault in others hurt you?
• How could fault-finding lead to gossip?
• What do you think about gossiping?

2. Explore the Qualities of Character:

• How would you describe someone with a weak character?
• What are signs of a good character?
• How would you recognize the good character in others?

   3. Help Your Child Make Friends with Kids of Good Character:

• How can you be friendly?
• How can you have fun?
• How can you be appreciative?

3. Practice Praising a Classmate's Good Character:

 

 

• Pick a classmate to praise.
• What would you say? Let’s practice. 
• Share it with your classmate and tell me what happened.
• Who will you praise next?

Help your child listen to a classmate's words and see how she acts. He'll be assessing the 'content of her character.' It can influence him about who to avoid and who to choose as a friend. 

Guide your child to 'look for the good' in others. He will find it because you opened his eyes to see and his ears to hear.

 

 

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With warm wishes, 

Jean Tracy

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How Kids Judge Others by the "Content of Their Character"

Dr. King was right. "There is something about love that builds up and is creative." 

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Jean Tracy

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• 101 Ways to Get Your Children to Cooperate

 

 

 

Our Melting Pot Culture is filled with racial and ethnic treasures. When we extend a hand in friendship to one another, opportunities flow-in. But it can be scary.

Cross Cultural Invitations

 

Making friends can be risky.

Don’t be shy. Just be frisky,

Smile kindly big and bright.

Extend your hand with an invite,

That crosses cultures and you will see,

Your new friend is filled with glee.

Once that door is open, barriers can be overcome, friendships can begin, and appreciation for our sameness and differences can blossom.

Friendship Ice Breakers 

Everyone is responsible to extend a hand in friendship. There are fun and easy ways to break the ice with invitations like:

1. A neighborhood party
2. A plate of cookies
3. A bouquet of flowers
4. More Invitations Ideas

Racially Diverse Friendships Enrich Us When We:

 

1. Teach each other our languages
2. Exchange specialty recipes
3. Share family traditions
4. Play board games
5. Eat dinners at each other’s home
6. Organize potluck dinner parties
7. More Cultural Enrichment Ideas

All these ways and more help us love our neighbors as treasures. We grow and they grow.

For more ideas on how to connect with others go to:

Diverse Friendships - How Families Come Together

 

Like this post? Please comment and share it with your friends on social media.

Thank you so much.

With warm wishes, 

Jean Tracy, MSS

******

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• 80 Fun Activities to Share with Your Kids
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Like a ghost, the unseen virus threatens everyone. It isolates kids from their friends. Parents sense the deep loneliness invading their children. They feel it too.

The news exposes violence in the streets. Riots divide us. Can anything bring all peoples together when the pandemic is over?

Today’s post shouts, “Yes!”

 

In a simple video you will find a cure for loneliness, disconnectedness, and hatred. You’ll find how:

1. Parents can influence children.
2. Adults can expand their comfort zones.
3. Individuals can overcome loneliness.
4. People can learn to connect.
5. Everyone can belong.

The solutions within this video are different. They are not one-sided. Everyone is responsible and it’s easy. It comes down to one word and it doesn’t start with “L.”

Hope: Families Brainstorm Specific Plans

We are about to conquer the virus. Vaccines are multiplying. Hope is in the air. It’s time to plan.

Let this 3 minute  video help you. Then brainstorm what you and your family can do. Start making specific plans and when the time comes, enjoy making friends.

Watch now:

 

 

    

5 Ways Diverse Families Become Friends

https://youtu.be/jSwhNRbTRXQ

 

Like this post? Please comment and share it with your friends on social media.

Thank you so much.

With warm wishes, 

Jean Tracy, MSS

******

Sign up for my FREE Parenting News and receive:

• 80 Fun Activities to Share with Your Kids
• 101 Ways to Get Your Children to Cooperate

 

Who can you trust? Who's telling the truth? Today the truth is hard to know.

You want your child to be honest, but how? 

First, go back to your childhood. Remember a time when you told a lie and felt guilty. Were you plagued by regret and fear? Did you worry that you'd be found out and get punished?

Lies can torment your child too.

I remember those feelings. I didn't know how to face up to what I'd done. This article will help you teach your child how to tell the truth and avoid guilt.

You CAN Help Your Child Choose Truth Over Guilt.

Today's article shares:

• 8 painful results from lying
• 7 positive effects for being truthful
• 6 honesty strategies
• 5 moral dilemmas to discuss
• 10 self-talk rhymes to repeat

Feel free to choose the ones that are most helpful.

 

 

Your Parenting Tips Are Here:

The Honest Child - 35 Parenting Tips Teach Truthfulness

 

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Thank you so much.

With warm wishes, 

Jean Tracy, MSS

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PARENTS, NOW YOUR CHILD CAN GIVE LOVING HOLIDAY GIFTS WITH NO-COST COUPONS.

Today’s parenting giveaway is a set of gift-giving coupons for kids. Your youngster can give them to whomever he or she wishes.

3 Rules for Caring Coupons - Your Child Must:

1. Be able to do them.
2. Promise to do them within a time limit.
3. Give something the receiver would like.

Who Will Receive Your Child’s Gift Awards?

It’s up to your child and here are 5 possibilities:

• Parents
• Siblings
• Grandparents
• Relatives
• Friends

These Gift Certificates Can Include:

1. Work coupons
2. Fun activities
3. Caring compliments etc.

Brainstorm with your child what kind of specific awards to give like helpful chores, games to play together, or a list of loving compliments.

Work Coupons Can Include:

• Fold laundry
• Fix a dinner salad
• Weed a flower bed

Fun Activities Can Include:

• Play a board game together
• Create a treasure hunt
• Bake cookies

Loving Words Can include:

• Drawing a picture of the receiver. Then add loving words in the title. 
• Writing out 5 loving compliments about the receiver.
• Asking the receiver to tell her 3 stories about the recipient's childhood. This could include coupons for Mom, Dad, Grandma, or Grandpa.

 

 

To receive your coupons, go to www.KidsDiscuss.com and insert the code word: 

Presents

Then Download and Copy as Many Coupons as You Like.

 

Like this post? Please share it with your friends on social media.

Thank you so much.

With warm wishes, 

Jean Tracy, MSS

******

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• 80 Fun Activities to Share with Your Kids
• 101 Ways to Get Your Children to Cooperate

PARENTS CAN TEACH CHILDREN EMPATHY WITH SIMPLE DISCUSSIONS. Today you and your child will find a childhood behavior to discuss, what mindsets to avoid, and 7 easy steps for teaching empathy.  Use it to help your child grow into a caring person who understands others.

Ask your youngster to analyze this situation by asking, “What don’t we know?”

Sarah gave her friend, Jane, a friendly punch. Jane yelled, “Stop it!” and hit Sarah hard.

Ask your child, "What don't we know?"

Hopefully, she answered, “We don’t know why Jane hit Sarah back so hard.”

Many kids might judge Jane and call her names. But that would put Jane on the defensive and make her mad because no one wants to be judged harshly.

Rather than being a critical judge, ask your child to think of some positive reasons why Jane may have hit Sarah. Why positive?

Usually, when someone does something, even if it’s negative,  it’s for a positive reason. We call it the ‘positive intent.’ This is because the doer, (Jane) is getting something positive out of her behavior.

 

Here are some sample reasons:

1. Maybe Sarah told her class a big secret about Jane's family and Jane found out. Now Jane’s breaking off the friendship.

 

2. Maybe Sarah has given Jane too many friendly punches that have bruised her in the past. Now Jane’s showing her what it feels like to stop Sarah from punching her again.

 

3. Maybe Jane was ridiculed by her class for a wrong answer and she thought Sarah’s friendly punch was intended to tease her for it. Jane’s hitting tells Sarah her teasing isn’t funny.

 

Who knows why Jane reacted the way she did? We’re not mind readers. Only Jane really knows. 

But stepping into Jane’s shoes and trying to see the situation from her point of view, your child is on the path to understanding and empathy.

Tell your child, “It’s hard to feel empathy for Jane or anyone else if you’re judging with a mean critical mind.”

 

Rather than judge, teach your child to:

1. Switch your critical thoughts to exploring positive reasons why she did what she did.
2. Avoid calling names or making accusations.
3. Ask don't tell. "Why did you...? rather than, "You did it because..."
4. Listen without judgment.
5. Try to see her point of view.
6. Show empathy with understanding comments like, "I can see why you felt that way."
7. Suggest she apologize, if appropriate.

If you do, she just might follow your suggestion. All because you asked, listened and cared.

Another important point, when someone acts poorly and you understand why they did it, doesn't mean you agree with their negative behavior. It does mean you chose to understand it.

Use these steps, whenever your child tells you about another child’s negative behaviors. Your discussions will be interesting, and you’ll be teaching her to be an empathic person with an understanding character.

Watch this 2 minute video with 5 questions to help your child turn from criticism to empathy.

How Parents Teach Empathy to Kids

 

The Transcript with the 5 Questions is beneath the video at YouTube when you click Show More. 

Bonus Articles with Videos:

7 Ways to Encourage Positive Brain Power in Your Child   

The Positive Child - 18 Top Parenting Tips and Tools 

Like this post? Please share it with your friends on social media.

Thank you so much.

With warm wishes, 

Jean Tracy, MSS

******

Sign up for my FREE Parenting News and receive:

• 80 Fun Activities to Share with Your Kids
• 101 Ways to Get Your Children to Cooperate