- A lot of parents are tired of being told how technology is screwing up their kids.
- Moms and dads of the digital age are well aware of the growing competition for their children’s attention, and they’re bombarded at each turn of the page or click of the mouse with both cutting-edge ideas and newfound worries for raising great kids.
- Help unlock your child’s best self with a few tried-and-true strategies.
Introduction
Every parent’s dream is to raise children who are kind, responsible, and emotionally resilient. Harvard psychologists have examined what it takes to nurture these qualities, offering insights for parents everywhere. Their findings reveal six powerful strategies to help guide children toward becoming compassionate and capable individuals. Let’s dive into these research-backed principles and see how they can shape the next generation.
1. Spend Quality Time Together
One of the simplest yet most powerful ways to influence your child’s growth is by spending time with them. Harvard psychologists recommend regular family time as it builds trust, strengthens communication, and instills values naturally. Whether it’s a weekly movie night, a weekend hike, or simply chatting over dinner, being present fosters security and reinforces that family time matters.
2. Speak Your Values Out Loud
Children learn not only by watching but also by hearing their parents’ thoughts and values. If something is important, verbalize it. Share your values, beliefs, and life lessons out loud. When kids hear about the principles you live by—whether it’s kindness, respect, or honesty—they’re more likely to internalize and adopt them as their own.
3. Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills
Challenges are inevitable, and parents who model effective problem-solving teach kids to “work it out” constructively. Harvard researchers suggest showing kids how to approach obstacles calmly, break down solutions, and collaborate if needed. Children who see their parents handling stress and setbacks learn valuable coping skills and understand that problems are part of life’s journey.
4. Make Helpfulness and Gratitude Part of Daily Life
Instilling gratitude and helpfulness as daily routines cultivates a positive mindset and empathy. Harvard studies highlight that kids who practice gratitude regularly are more content and connected with those around them. Simple routines like thanking each other, discussing things they’re grateful for, or involving them in acts of kindness help build these values naturally.
5. Address Destructive Emotions
Children sometimes struggle with emotions like anger, jealousy, or frustration. Teaching them to recognize and manage these feelings can significantly impact their social and emotional well-being. Harvard psychologists recommend validating their feelings while guiding them toward healthier responses. Through open conversations and calming techniques, children learn to manage emotions, fostering resilience and emotional intelligence.
6. Encourage a Broader Perspective
Kids who understand the “bigger picture” are more empathetic and open-minded. Parents can broaden their child’s view by discussing current events, community issues, or even other people’s experiences. Harvard researchers suggest this approach helps children appreciate diversity, develop empathy, and understand their place in the world.
Conclusion
Raising kids who are kind, responsible, and resilient requires intention and everyday actions. By following these Harvard-backed tips—spending quality time, speaking values out loud, modeling problem-solving, fostering gratitude, addressing emotions, and expanding perspectives—parents can help their children grow into well-rounded, compassionate adults. Each of these small steps contributes to a foundation of character and resilience, empowering kids to thrive in the world. A detailed study on a similar topic from Harvard’s Ronald Fergus can be found here.