Building Self-Compassion in Children: Keys to Kindness, Gratitude and Compassion for Others

We’ve all heard the question, “What kind of world are we leaving for our children?” But Dr. Shilagh Mirgain, a health and sport psychologist at the University of Wisconsin, turns that question on its head and asks, “What kind of children are we leaving for our world?”   Whatever the ages of your children, don’t miss this inspiring and practical discussion of how to help your children develop compassion for themselves and others, recognizing the common humanity, vulnerability and imperfection we all share. Learn concrete steps you can take today to help your children be more grateful, kind and mindful in their daily lives.     WHAT STEPS WILL YOU TAKE TO HELP YOUR CHILDREN DEVELOP SELF-COMPASSION? This week’s Mom Enough guest talks about the importance of “showing up for yourself as you would for a dear friend.” Give examples of what that would look like in your life. What concrete steps could you take to help your children treat themselves with such compassion?   WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT SELF-COMPASSION? ❉ WHY SELF-COMPASSION IS ESSENTIAL TO SENSITIVE PARENTING. Emmy Reilly, doctoral candidate at the Institute of Child Development at the University of Minnesota, joins Marti and Erin to discuss research on the important connection between self-compassion and parenting. She shares insights and tips on using self-compassion to support our parenting, and includes a good dose of research to back up her findings. You won’t want to miss her wisdom on the value of turning the dial of compassion inward.   ❉ SELF-COMPASSION IN KIDS. Read Dr. Mirgain's article on self-compassion.   ❉ FOSTERING COMPASSIONATE CHILDREN. Check out this tip sheet on fostering compassion in children to learn more.