By Rodney E Henderson
1. As a part of the early introduction and orientation to a child’s chosen faith, a discussion on the existence of children of other faiths, and why they should not be feared nor dominated, but simply respected, should be had.
PURPOSE: This investment at an early age will mitigate the confusion and possible fears that may occur when the child unexpectedly and abruptly comes face-to-face with a child of another faith. This orientation will have to come at some point, and an effort on the part of the parents enables some modicum of control over how this message is conveyed.
2. As a normal course of ‘after school conversation,’ probe the child to see if there are any children in their classes that they are slightly uncomfortable with, or have questions of. Whether this leads to a discussion of spiritual diversity, or simply the possibility of a bully or other like situation, the end result is only positive.
PURPOSE: To proactively assist your child in the orientation to children of other faiths and other differences in general.
3. In the formative years of pre-K, participate in reading children’s stories that use the ‘meeting a strange character’ as their plot, and talk about it with the child as you read through the story. Pose questions such as, ‘have you ever met someone that seemed strange at first, but once you got to know him…’
PURPOSE: This type of conversation lays the foundation for a discussion on spiritual diversity at a later age. At this point, you are simply teaching the lessons of respect and understanding, life-long principles that are timeless.
Teach your child spiritual respect and compassion for children of other faiths4. Advance the premise of # 3 to reading stories that actually do touch on spiritual diversity. This may be a bit self serving in that the only entity that we are aware of that has attempted to broach this subject in this manner is Little Lamb Properties.
PURPOSE: This is simple the process of maturing the spiritual development of the child as they start putting form and shape to children of other faiths.
5. When the time is right, and IF the child shows an interest and aptitude – and only you, the parent can decide this – a discussion and overview of the major faiths in the world may be appropriate.
In the process, a discussion of why the parents have chosen the faith that they have will come to light. It is suggested that this conversation may be more appropriate in a group session led by someone who has some familiarity with the subject.
PURPOSE: To develop the child’s appreciation and identification with their own faith, while continuing and solidifying the message of spiritual respect and compassion for children of other faiths.
Remember, if you don’t make the effort to introduce the premise of other faiths to your child, someone else will and in a way that may or may not be to your liking.
Free Ebook: The 7 Secrets of Sharing The Law of Attraction With Kids and Teens – Discover life-changing techniques that will bring even more love and joy to your family and learn the secrets to making a profound difference with your kids right now.How to Become an Awakened Parent – An in-depth, comprehensive program that leads parents through a step by step process of examining themselves in order to raise empowered children. Master simple strategies for becoming an awakened parent, equipped to parent in a way that matches the world your children are growing up in.Meditations 4 Kids – Meditations for kids that are fun, relaxing and enjoyable for the whole family to take part in. Each meditation leaves a period of time focus and develop his or her own visualization skills without the need of a guide. The confidence, mental agility, self-control, and pleasure gained from these meditations will positively affect every aspect of the child’s life.Related posts:
Spiritual Parenting: How to Raise Enlightened ChildrenSpiritual Parenting By Gopika Kapoor (Excerpt)Conscious Parenting: How to Fully Accept Your Child and YourselfLife Skills Activities For Kids: Teaching Your Child With Toys And GamesInterview With Gopika Kapoor, Author Of Spiritual Parenting
No comments:
Post a Comment