Skip to main content

Advertisement

Advertisement

Develop compassion in our children from young

The disappearance of Flight MH370, the sinking of the Korean ferry, the fighting and bloodshed in the Middle East, the crash of Flight MH17 — we keep reading about disasters, destruction and deaths around the world.

Follow TODAY on WhatsApp
Samantha Chin, Content Manager, Focus on the Family Singapore

The disappearance of Flight MH370, the sinking of the Korean ferry, the fighting and bloodshed in the Middle East, the crash of Flight MH17 — we keep reading about disasters, destruction and deaths around the world.

Children in Singapore are sheltered from the cries of those facing these crises. Though it is a blessing that Singaporeans experience general peace and stability, it is easy for children to become complacent and apathetic to the needs of others.

Parents should do their best to ensure this does not happen. When news of disasters comes, let us refrain from thinking that children are too young to feel for the victims or do any­thing about it.

They can sometimes surprise us with their amazing capacity for compassion, so let us engage them in age-appropriate conversations about the frailty of life, the suffering that occurs in this world and the need to help others.

Let them share their feelings about the situation and think about the kinds of difficulties the victims might be facing. Challenge them to think of ways to help, such as saying a prayer for those affected or contributing to fund-raising efforts. If possible, they can even write notes of encouragement to the victims and their families.

Of course, parents should also set a good example by showing genuine empathy for people in need.

In fact, being kind to others should begin close to home. Children can donate their toys to children’s homes and be taught to befriend fellow classmates who are constantly alone.

Recently, Focus on the Family Sing­apore invited more than 800 students from mainstream and special needs schools to watch a screening of The Senior Prank. Through this anti-bullying film, students learnt that people with special needs are equally valua­ble and should not be discriminated against. Such messages of inclusivity and empathy are what children should hear and act upon.

As Singapore celebrates 49 years of growing prosperity and efficiency, may our nation be known also as one that shows increasing compassion for others in need. This must start from the young, our future generation.

Read more of the latest in

Advertisement

Advertisement

Stay in the know. Anytime. Anywhere.

Subscribe to get daily news updates, insights and must reads delivered straight to your inbox.

By clicking subscribe, I agree for my personal data to be used to send me TODAY newsletters, promotional offers and for research and analysis.