In an increasingly connected world, children have greater access to information and the potential to drive social change. Our role as parents is to educate them about environmental, social, and human rights issues on a global scale, enabling them to recognize their ability to contribute to solutions.

Why is global awareness important for kids?

Fostering global awareness in children is crucial if we want them to inherit a world where they can play a role in addressing issues and making a positive impact.

Furthermore, cultivating care for global issues is beneficial for children. “It fosters a society that is more respectful of individual rights and compassionate,” states Paula Gallo, senior education manager with UNICEF Canada’s Global Classroom program. “Additionally, it has personal benefits, enhancing well-being and cognitive abilities.”

Research indicates that children engaged in local and global communities tend to have increased self-esteem, improved social and psychological development, and adopt healthier lifestyle choices, all of which contribute to their likelihood of becoming active citizens in adulthood.

Here’s how we can bridge our children to the wider world.

Prioritize global awareness

Creating well-rounded children goes beyond academic tutoring, music lessons, and sports. Unfortunately, opportunities for teaching compassion and generosity aren’t easily found. “Our society doesn’t inherently provide those opportunities for families,” notes Craig Kielburger, co-founder of the international charitable organization Free the Children and the social enterprise Me to We. “Parents need to actively create such moments and approach them with the same intention they apply to academics, sports, or the arts.”

Engage in relevant conversations

Whenever issues such as climate change or child exploitation arise—be it through media, advertisements, or packaging—seize the moment to discuss them. Why is fair trade important to Auntie Grace? How does recycling benefit the environment? These discussions can be straightforward and concise.

Speak up

By not addressing these current issues, you send an implicit message to your child. Gallo highlights this point: “If you walk by homeless individuals without acknowledging them, it communicates discomfort with discussing such topics or implies indifference.”

Mother of two, Theresa Lemieux, wishes she had tackled global concerns more openly when her children, Kate, 12, and Benjamin, 14, were younger. “I worried about Ben, who tends to be anxious,” she reflects. “But now I realize my own anxiety might have amplified his. Allowing him to engage with these issues could have built his confidence.”

Lead by example

“Your purchasing choices carry significant weight,” emphasizes Judy Arnall, a certified family educator and speaker based in Calgary. “Money can influence.” Explain to your children your reasons for selecting organic products. Your children notice when you practice conservation or assist someone in need. Be mindful, though—Arnall’s 21-year-old son now checks if her coffee is fair trade before she brews it. “Once you instill these values, they’ll start encouraging you to change your habits!”

Engage in family acts of kindness

While Kielburger’s parents performed typical charitable acts like donating clothes, they included their sons in the process. Together, they would discuss which charities to support and personally deliver donations to shelters, allowing the children to connect with the recipients.

Seek informal volunteering opportunities

Many official volunteer programs have age restrictions, so consider organizing volunteer efforts on your own. Your child could assist a neighbor with yard work or befriend a new classmate. Draw inspiration from their interests. “Ask your kids what they would like to do and pay attention to their passions,” suggests Arnall. “Young children may lack resources, but an adult’s involvement can empower them to effect change.”

Focus on more than finances and time

“Many parents equate global citizenship with conventional charity, assuming it entails giving money or time,” remarks Kielburger. “Both are finite.” Kids can create awareness through classroom initiatives or promote environmental stewardship by biking to school. Fundraising can still be an option; children might enjoy setting up a lemonade stand or collecting coins—simple activities they can manage independently.

Avoid inducing guilt

We should give back not from a place of guilt but because we find joy in doing so! Kielburger advocates for campaigns that are engaging and uplifting, such as Halloween food drives or birthday parties honoring children without birth certificates. “Charity shouldn’t stem from guilt or feel burdensome. I understand the challenges parents face in navigating this, especially with young kids,” Kielburger adds.

Remember, children are more likely to stay connected to causes that they find enjoyable. Encourage them to participate in fun activities such as bake sales or car washes.

Support their empowerment

“When my children say, ‘It’s too far away, and there’s nothing I can do,’ it reflects disempowerment,” shares Lemieux. She teaches her kids to identify actionable steps. For instance, if it’s related to Canadian politics, Ben feels empowered knowing, “I can learn about this and one day, I can vote.” When children feel capable of making a difference, they grow up with hope and the readiness to act. “Most parents wish for their kids to be independent and contribute positively to others,” she concludes. “That’s a goal we can all aspire to.”

Guidance for tough conversations

Addressing issues like poverty, disease, and natural disasters can be challenging even for adults. Here are some strategies for discussing sensitive topics with children:

• It may be necessary to initiate conversations. Parents often feel inclined to shield children from negative news, but don’t assume they’re unaware simply because they haven’t mentioned it. Your involvement can shape their understanding.
• Don’t presume that discussing tough topics will upset them. Regularly incorporating these discussions can help normalize them. Approach these conversations with empathy and without judgment.
• Customize your conversations to match their age. Younger children need reassurance of safety. Use simple explanations to clarify events like tsunamis and describe preventative measures. By adolescence, children can grasp more nuanced discussions, such as the implications of consumer boycotts.
• Let your child guide the dialogue. If they seem reluctant to engage in conversation, respect their feelings and allow them space, while ensuring they know you are open to discussion whenever they’re ready.