Grown Up Children Share 30 Things They Are Proud Their Parents Taught Them

Another way to foster empathy in your kids is to display it yourself. Seems self-explanatory enough, but with today’s culture of rushing through everything, it can be easy to forget. But being mindful about exhibiting empathy in any situation can go a long way in teaching your kids. “Stay calm when you encounter a frustrating parenting moment. Take the time to process your emotions and triggers before you react to model emotional regulation to your kids,” Katie writes. “Consider their triggers before you respond in anger. Demonstrating empathy in our day-to-day lives helps kids develop an internal sense of right and wrong.” 

Katie goes on to write that taking action can be another way to demonstrate empathy in front of your kids. It does not need to be anything huge or time consuming, though. “Think small. Help carry groceries or rake leaves for an elderly neighbor, for example,” Katie writes. “Building community connections and providing first person help encourages kids to become change-makers.” The more often your kids see you going out of your way to help others or acknowledge their feelings, the more your children will want to do the same.  

We hope this list is reminding you of all of the great things your parents instilled in you. Whether you have kids of your own or not, remember that leading by example is a powerful thing. The next time you’re around a friend or family member’s kid, see if you can do something to be a great role model. Even a small encounter can be meaningful for them. Remember to upvote all of your favorite replies on this list, and then feel free to share in the comments what the most impactful thing your parents taught you was.