PW invited parents of Greenwood High, Bengaluru to share their insights on how they teach their children to be compassionate towards others

“Compassion is a fundamental virtue essential for humanity’s survival and growth.  We have nurtured our son Yuvaan (class III) from youngest age in a compassionate environment. Children learn by example, internalizing kindness through the actions and attitudes of adults. Empathy can be taught by helping them understand their own feelings and those of others. Simple acts like sharing, helping classmates, or caring for a pet develop this quality. By encouraging and appreciating acts of kindness, and providing opportunities for them to practice compassion, we show children that tenderness is a form of strength. Ultimately, children learn compassion by living it” – Sonia Abrol, Advocate and Founder, Sarvaya Legal

“Our daughter Samhita (class IV) is a voracious reader who has learned compassion through her reading habit. Books help develop empathy by simulating social experiences and allowing readers to step into characters’ minds. As parents we have taught Samhita these virtues in the context of daily life by modeling empathetic behaviour, discussing feelings openly, encouraging perspectives-sharing. Also by creating opportunities for kindness. Consistent, small moments at home, at the playground, or when reading together has helped Samhita build this important skill” — Shruti Aditya Kulkarni, homemaker

“Compassion is a vital trait that enhances emotional intelligence and fosters empathy in children. It helps them nurture relationships and understand the feelings of others. We always encourage our son Atrij (class VI) to speak with kindness and show empathy towards others. We also teach him to accept his mistakes. apologize and ensure he doesn’t repeat them. Likewise we have also taught him to forgive people for their mistakes and avoid making a big fuss about them. We also make it a point to appreciate Atrij for his acts of kindness by treating him with ice cream/pizza, so he feels rewarded” — Animesh Khare, Director Tonbo Imaging Pvt Ltd.

“I believe compassion is best taught at home by simple acts of kindness. Which is why parents must model compassionate behaviour in their homes, in front of their children. Our daughter Kaelyn (class VI) has seen her father feed stray dogs and has wanted to do the same since. She has seen me give away my old clothes and her baby brother’s clothes to the nanny and her child. For Kaelyn, it is common to give away her clothes to someone in need. I have a friend who works with an orphanage and often collects our children’s clothes, which both our children happily hand over for the children there. Kaelyn feels very happy when she sees the joy on the faces of the children she shares her old clothes with. And that’s a huge takeaway” — Mokshada Tandon, Content Writer, Yourstory Media Pvt Ltd