Social exclusion can prevent children from building the confidence and relationships they need to reach their fullest potential. Here are a few tips for fostering greater inclusion and empathy among children and their peers:
MODEL EMPATHY AND KINDNESS
Teach your child to empathize with those they perceive as “different” because of various dimensions of diversity (ability, body type, economic status, gender/gender identity, race, religion, sexual orientation, etc.).
TAKE BULLYING SERIOUSLY
Make sure your kids understand that you will not tolerate bullying at home or anywhere else, and that they can help to support friends who may be bullied.
SET A GOOD EXAMPLE
Model the Y’s core values—caring, honesty, respect and responsibility —in the way you interact with and talk about others.
HEALTHY CHOICES HELP CHILDREN THRIVE
Here are some reasons why:
- Proper nutrition helps children maintain a healthy weight and positive body image
- Regular physical activity is linked to better academic performance
- Children who are physically active generally perform better on tests than less active peers
At the Y, we know that a successful development process fulfills children and teens’ innate need to be loved, spiritually grounded, educated, competent, and healthy. All of our youth programs are designed with these qualities in mind, as it is the hopes that fulfilled children will grow into productive, functional adults who will ultimately better our community. Check out our Program Brochure, which features page after page of quality programs and classes from age 2-18!