Thursday, March 14, 2013

Can You Teach Joy to Troubled Kids?





We love to share other great blogs with our friends here, and the True Aim Education blog has a lot of really useful posts that can help inspire parents who might struggle with creative ways to educate their kids.

Recently, we came across their post on Values for Children: Joy.

Joy can be an especially tricky concept to explain to children with troubled or abusive pasts. Cynical and jaded at such early ages, teaching something that should be innate, such as the concept of "joy" and fostering the idea that it is a desirable thing and something of which they are worthy, takes time.

In the True Aim post, the author lists some terrific games that help kids understand that they can choose to live more joyful lives and make changes in their attitudes.  Check it out. (with permission from Trueaimeducation.com)

Values for Children: Joy

Looking to teach your children values?
Below, you will find tips, tools, and resources to teach them about Joy.

Definition

Joy is the expression of inner happiness and contentment.
Joyous people look for the good in every situation.
Choose to be positive and content and you will be a source of joy to others.

Verse


"My lips will shout for joy when I sing praise to you- I whom you have delivered."
Psalm 71:23

"The Lord has done great things for us and we are filled with joy." Psalms 126:3


Activities

Let's Talk About Joy


  • Joy comes from God: Remind your children that the purpose of life is to please God and tell others about Him.  When they understand what has been done for them through Jesus, they can be joyful no matter the circumstance.  Also see "Values for Children: Faith".
  • Healthy Habits:  Well rested, well fed, and active children are more joyful.  Help your children establish healthy bedtime routines so they get plenty of sleep.  Make them eat their vegetables, and teach them to take care of themselves. 
  • Joy is a Habit of the Heart: Joy is a choice.  Make it easier for your children to choose it by teaching them to control their emotions.  This Values for Children series is a good place to start.
  • Just Smile:  As always, set the example for your children.  It is easy to get caught in the drudgery of menial tasks.  Remember to smile.  Leave notes for yourself around the house if need be.  Also, singing is a great way to bring joy to your home.  If you struggle with this, here are some great songs to help you bring the joy of music to your home.   
  • Spread the Joy Bean Bag Toss 
 Read the rest of the article and get the rest of the games and links at: http://www.trueaimeducation.com/2013/02/values-for-children-joy.html?showComment=1362684151227#c3389598205458202302






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