By Dr. Diana Yu, MD, MSPH, Health Officer for Thurston and Mason Counties
Violence takes up so much of our front page news. As the saying goes – “violence begets violence.” Maybe if we show kids that we care, it can make a difference.
- Notice them
- Smile a lot
- Learn their names
- Seek them out
- Remember their birthday
- Ask them about themselves
- Look into their eyes when you talk to them
- Listen to them
- Play with them
- Read aloud together
- Giggle together
- Be nice
- Say yes a lot
- Tell them their feelings are okay
- Set boundaries that keep them safe
- Be honest
- Listen to their stories
- Hug them
- Forget your worries sometimes and concentrate only on them
- Notice when they are acting differently
- Present options when they seek your counsel
- Play outside together
- Stay with them when they are afraid
- Share a meal with them
- Suggest better behaviors when they act out
- Delight in their discoveries
- Send them a letter or postcard
- Follow them when they lead
- Notice when they are absent
- Laugh at their jokes
- Keep the promises you make
- Give them space when they need it
- Discuss their dreams and nightmares
- Find a common interest
- Let them solve most of their own problems
- Love them
Materials adapted from 150 Ways to Show Kids You Care, The Search Institute, Minneapolis, Minnesota 1996
