From the first moment you looked into their eyes, you dreamed big dreams for your child. Maybe they would become a doctor, an astronaut, or an author. Maybe they’d design their own clothing line, start their own business, or discover a cure for cancer. But, perhaps, the biggest dream we have for them is the hope they’ll live a content life filled with purpose.
Purposeful living doesn’t wait for adulthood to start—the stage for a life of purpose is set during childhood. We can help our kids discover what purpose is, even when they’re still learning basic life skills. Here are seven meaningful ways to help your kids find purpose in the world around them:
1. Create a family tree.
It’s so important for kids to understand the legacy they were born into. So, gather the family photos, pop some popcorn, and make a family craft night out of creating a family tree. Make it fun by sharing stories of the good memories, the lessons learned from the not-so-good memories, and inviting your kids to shape their own branches of the family tree.
2. Write a purpose statement.
A great way to initiate this activity is to first write a family purpose statement that represents what’s important to your family. Once the family purpose statement is written, paint it on a canvas together or frame it. Then, encourage your kids to develop their own purpose statement for what's important to them.
3. Teach them the importance of everyone.
Talk to your kids about how every person has a role to play and a purpose to fulfill. Talk about what role each family member plays in your family. Expand that to the roles outside of your family, including people in your community, church, and work.
4. Establish a list of strengths.
It’s easy to assume your kids know how much you love them. But as their parent, you need to dive a little bit deeper into the love pool and put some words around your affection. Make a habit of talking specifically about your kids’ strengths to them. Then, sit with your kid to create a list of their strengths, using the words you’ve already been using.
5. Construct a collage of interests.
Be curious about what brings your kid joy. Then, work with them to find pictures of things they’re interested in to create a collage of their favorite things. This is a great way for kids to associate their interests or passions with their purpose, and it’s a fun activity to do together.
6. Give them something to oversee.
Give your kids specific tasks to complete to help the family. Create a chore chart, and allow them to experience not only the responsibility of hard work, but the joys that come with a job well done.
7. Live an inspirational life.
There is no better way to teach your kid about purpose than by living your own life with intention. Share your journey, goals, inspiration, and dreams with them. Facilitating these open, vulnerable conversations with your kid at an early age will only prompt them to have these intimate and open conversations with you as they grow and mature.
Living with purpose may be a big concept for a kid to grasp, but accept the challenge to engage in the conversation, acknowledge their strengths, affirm who they are and how important they are, and lead by example. Your kid is watching every step you take: we hope you model what it looks like to live a life of happiness and purpose.