The touchstones theme in July is FREEDOM AND RESPONSIBILITY
Inspiration for UU parents:
Do you have 5 minutes to watch this sweet video by Danny Glover about Responsibility? I bet it will change your day.
It was inspired by Liberty Mutual’s Responsibility Project as explained in this short video.
The story this week:
Conversation starters:
Watch the Lorax (here is the trailer). The original children’s book was written by Dr. Seuss and published in 1971. This is a wonderful way to encourage children to think about how valuable our resources are and how we need to act responsibly to promote sustainability. Check this out for some great discussion questions related to The Lorax.
Extending the theme:
It is easy for people of any age to feel powerless against so many big problems in the world. It is important to help your child to remember all of the ways that they already help to make a difference in the world. Look at the list on the “I Make a Difference” handout with your child and add to it more ways that they help around the house, and helps friends, neighbors and relatives. This can include things like cleaning up their toys so people don’t trip on them, helping with recycling, sharing with siblings, talking to a grandparent on the phone. Think of “helping” as broadly as possible! Then talk about all the ways as a family that you take responsibility for making the world a better place. This can include things like obeying laws, voting, recycling, charitable donations or whatever any of your family members do to help in your community, at your congregation or at work.
Look at the “I Make a Difference” grid and handout and talk about the problem that your child identified and the ways they can make a difference. If you can, add to the list or help your child visualize the identified acts with more detail and clarity.
Magic wand. When your family shares a meal together, pass a pretend magic wand around the table letting each person name a problem they wish they could swish away. Then talk about small ways that you can, or do, make a difference, and how these actions contribute to a lasting effect more valuable than “magic,” because of the love and caring you put into them.
Let me know if I can be supportive to you in any other way! I am here for you.
All my best with blessings,
Amy