How to Raise a Compassionate Child

Compassion is a value that all of us should learn to appreciate. It’s something that will change the way your child will experience the many interactions and appreciations they’ll have of the world. It also helps them build relationships and make people more likely to trust you.

In this guide from an independent school in Harrow, we take a look at the ways you can help your child learn to be compassionate.

Be the ideal role model

Guide your child through the elements of being compassionate that can help them understand what it means to be kind and respectful. Give them the same level of compassion you would like to receive back – this helps them visualise what your child needs to do to help them learn.

Give them positive reminders

A world full of happiness naturally builds your child’s awareness of how they can be compassionate. Show that you’re proud of their progress by giving them regular praise, rewards for their good effort and regular reminders that they’re doing as well as they can do. It’s also not just about the performance they do, but also the effort they put into everything they do. Aiming for perfection can give your child unrealistic expectations and you should be proud of all that they try and do.

Shut down bad behaviour

Poor behaviour that isn’t controlled means your child will fall into bad habits. It can also shape your child’s progress in school and in ways that hinder their development with others. Ensure you keep an eye on your child’s progress – curb the poor behaviour early on and remind them of the consequences they could face if they continue. These kinds of issues can carry on well into adulthood if they’re not shown from a young age how to be compassionate.