There’s no doubt about it: the world today can be a difficult place. We often hear about conflict, violence, and other strife happening close to us, and far away. Yet, amid the sadness and darkness in the world, there is always light to be found. Even when it doesn’t feel like it, there is goodness everywhere you turn. Maybe it’s a simple smile from one stranger to another, or a kind and encouraging word from a friend. Teaching our children to be the change we want to see in the world is doable, too. Sometimes it starts with those little gestures. Here are some ways to inspire children to be changemakers.
Changemakers give to others.
Culture today influences children and adults alike to always want more. With that, it’s easy to always beg for more, more, more. But to create change in the world, it’s important to encourage kids – and us – that more isn’t always better. In fact, life can be so much more fulfilling if we learn the joy and beauty of giving. Teach generosity from a young age and continue to reinforce it. That could start with giving away toys that the children are done with or working together to bake cookies or a meal for someone in need that you know. These small acts of kindness instill something deep in children, so as they get older, they respond with a giving heart.
Changemakers love people of all kinds.
One of the best things about our world is that everyone is uniquely created. There are no two people the same. Diversity is what makes the world interesting and teaching your children to recognize that differences are what make us special is critical. This shows them that each person is worthy of love – even if they look different, act different, believe something different, or come from a different culture.
Changemakers have a bigger worldview.
The world is a huge place. There are so many different cultures and experiences for us to learn about and introducing children to those as much as possible is important. To change the world, people need to experience the world. Each new experience they have can expand not just their knowledge, but their hearts, too. It expands their capacity to love and accept others and treat them with the grace, respect, and dignity that they deserve. This doesn’t necessarily mean you need to travel the world right away, either. It could start with reading books about other cultures or people that are different from us or visiting museums, or it could mean volunteering at a local food bank or homeless shelter. Planting seeds at a young age can have a big impact on future generations.
Changemakers are courageous.
Everyone feels fear at some point or another in their lives and that’s okay. But for the most part, changemakers are courageous and aren’t afraid to step out and try new things. If children see you living courageously and not with a ‘scarcity’ or ‘fearful’ mentality, they will want to model that. When difficulties arise, they will be able to solve problems better and realize that sometimes it takes courage to change their situation or to change something that they see isn’t right in the world.
While it’s obvious that we can’t solve all the world’s problems, we can do our part in equipping our children to positively impact the future. Teaching them to be giving, loving, and courageous people can be the beginning of radical world change.