Fostering Goodwill in Our Children

The world needs people of goodwill who are open to learning and are appreciative of its diversity. Now more than ever, we need people who respect different cultures, religions, and points of view; people who are good observers and who listen without criticism or judgment; who accept their responsibilities and look for solutions to problems.

When we see inspiring examples of children expressing compassion and goodwill toward others, it’s important to remember that they aren’t just born that way. As parents, it is our responsibility to foster these qualities in our children, and the most effective way to do this is to demonstrate these qualities ourselves. Children are keen observers and are quick to copy and learn attitudes and behaviors from their parents.

There are many practical ways to instill these values in our children, including:

• Learning about different religions and cultures through books, videos, and visits to churches, mosques and synagogues; talking with their members; visiting and volunteering with people in different cultures.

• Having the children ponder what goodwill means and how we demonstrate goodwill towards others; having them discuss their thoughts with their families and with other children; brainstorming ways to practice goodwill locally and globally.

• Exploring the world by using world map placemats, globes, atlases -- anything that helps them to identify themselves as world citizens.

• Learning different languages and providing opportunities for the children to interact with native speakers of the language being learned.

• Having a clear purpose for the family; teaching the kind of values we want our children to learn such as patience, honesty, perseverance, and maintaining a positive attitude no matter what the circumstances.

• Cultivating a sense of responsibility in the children in terms of what they choose to be and how they can help others.

• Acknowledging a child’s special qualities in terms of service that can be given to others. For example, if a child is an accomplished reader, then he or she could read to younger children or to people who are sick or elderly.

• Developing a habit of "being of service," whether within the family or with others. This can be achieved by starting early with a young child being involved in "home-service" (as opposed to “household chores”) activities. This develops an attitude of "I am a useful member of this family and I am here to serve," not, "I am here to be served."

These ideas have been incorporated into the Parenting Initiative's series of free public workshops, discussion groups and accompanying audio, video and printed materials to help parents raise responsible children of character who as adults will be able to meet the challenges of this new world. As parents and mentors, it is our inspired hope, dedication, concerted effort, and abiding love that will help to build a foundation of goodwill that can flourish in the future.

Further information about the Parenting Initiative can be obtained by writing the Parenting Initiative or calling 336-777-1947.