Nurturing Compassion

Another piece recently found me, Nurturing Compassion in Boys, from the Doing Good Together Newsletter.

Jenny Freidman starts with:

“While girls are often applauded for pursuing math and science, playing traditional male sports and dressing in typical boy attire, boys who deviate from the historically ‘masculine’ conventions often face a much different reaction.

Although all gender stereotypes are becoming less rigid, girls are given more flexibility than boys. That concerns me, especially when it comes to developing the typically “feminine” traits of compassion and kindness. These qualities are critical to the healthy development of all our children. Below are ways to assure that your boys receive those essential lessons in empathy as they grow toward being caring, compassionate, charitable men.”

The suggestions they offer, not surprisingly, starts with helping your boys label their feelings. Sometimes, I feel like a broken record. Other suggestions include:

• Redefine courage.
• Find giving projects that fit your boy’s interests
• Emphasize empathy. Do “180s” with your son – often. How to foster empathy with reading.
• Expose your son to the right kind of heroes.

Definitely a piece to check out, determine how to incorporate in a way that’s right for your family, and to share.