The parents I come across want to raise children wholl fight injustice.
They take their kids to rallies.
They starttalking about race, gender, sexual orientation and physical ability early and often.
They introduce books that explorethe fight for equality.
And kids do get itthey have aremarkable concern for fairnessand capacity for critical thinking.
Will they stick up for their marginalized peers?
Will they step in even if their friends sit in uncomfortable silence?
Will they beupstanders instead of bystanders?
Unless theyre wildly outspoken by nature, probably not without some coaching.
In these stressful moments, its easier to hang back and say nothing.
They need to teach them what to say in response, and how to say it.
At home, they talked about it.
Amy says, I asked her, How did that make you feel?
Does that feel right to you?
Do you think anyone in your class was hurt by that comment?
How would you feel if your parents were sent away?
Children naturally understand fairness and equitylittle kids are obsessed with the concept.
They know when theyre facing injustice, even if they dont yet have the words to explain it.
But empathy for others is something that needs to be learned, Hickel says.
And that means constantly guiding them to step into other peoples shoes.
They need to knowwhatto say, and as with any skill, they need to practice it.
Why is that funny?something her parents have taught her.
I was just making a joke.
And then Lily will say, It wasnt very funny.
Kids can also say, You sound like a bully, Hickel suggests.
The terminology around bullying is something they understand.
you might also role-play different scenarios with your children.
Adding your body to the numbers increases the probability that an aggressor is going to back off.
To add to the line of defense, the child can round a couple friends to come along.
However, if the situation looks like it could escalate into physical violence, she should flag an adult.
Ultimately, you have to know that what youre doing is important.
Keep letting them know youre on their side.
