One of the most important things we can teach our children is to serve and help others. This basic concept can be taught from a young age. You can begin to teach your children to consider others feelings by teaching them to share with others. It is important that you work with your children on address each situation in a positive manner. Good sharing habits come when the children realize how their actions can make other people happy and sad.
As children get older the focus will then move to including others in their games and play. It is important to teach your children to never isolate or pick on other children. This is a natural extension of sharing. Again it is important to talk about feelings and actions with your children.
As your child becomes older you can then begin to talk about helping others. You may use the scriptures to illustrate the importance of serving others. The story of the Good Samaritan is an excellent example. The story of Ammon serving king Lamoni is another good example. Then you need to extend it to those around them. Sometimes serving someone you know will help your children to realize the blessings that come as a result of service.
One of the most difficult characteristics to develop and hold on to is that of a pure Christ like love. Focusing on the needs of others can make a big difference in developing these characteristics. Your example in this area will do more than any stories or lessons on it. Make your life one of service and your children will follow suit.
It is also important to teach your children to show and express gratitude and love for others. There are fewer and fewer people who are willing to take the time to say thank you and to show love to others. You can teach your children to do this, by taking the time to express your love and gratitude for them on a daily basis.
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