I have two thoughts this week and here they are…
First, What to tell your kiddos about the activity in Iran? I like to start discussion on current events such as this with a map. A map of Iran with the surrounding area, as well as a world map. First I would show kids how far Iran is in relationship to the United States and from your home town. Explain to them how long of a plane ride this would be-this may comfort children who hear about a war or bombs going off when you show them the distance. Then I would show them a map of Iran and the surrounding areas. A vocabulary list below with the neighboring countries, water and points of significance. Photos of what Iran looks like, gives them a picture in their mind of how the country looks. Lastly, listen carefully to their questions and only answer what they ask. Keep answers age appropriate and don’t get too complicated. Kids can only assimilate so much information, mostly what they need is comfort that you will keep them safe. Reassure them of that.
Images give your children a ‘picture’ in their mind when they hear these words.
Vocabulary Words
-Operation Epic Fury
-General Dan Caine (nickname “Razin” Caine)
-Iran
-Tehran
-Ali Kahamenei
-The Shah of Iran
-Bahrain
-Qatar
-UAE
-Dubai
-Iraq
-Israel
-Turkey
-Saudi Arabia
-Persian Gulf
-Gulf of Oman
-Strait of Hormuz
-Burqa
-Hijabi
You may have other words to add…
A Lesson on Service
This week’s second topic is “To Give Or Serve With A Willing Heart.”Teach your kids that when they do something to help someone, they are to do it with a “happy heart.” That means without complaining, or letting the person know how they have inconvenienced you. For example, don’t offer to help a brother or sister with homework then complain that it is taking their time away from playing with their friends or they could be doing something else. In my mind this sort of erases all the good feelings that come from being the person ‘giving’ of themselves and makes the person ‘receiving the service/help’ feel as if they are a burden. When teaching this lesson-and so many other, it often goes back to, “How would you feel?”Continue to instill in your children to “Treat others the way they wish to be treated,” in other words, The Golden Rule, Matthew 7:12.
In closing, you are your children’s first and most important teacher. Utilize the time you have with them to teach and explain what is on their mind and the lessons you feel are important for them to know to prepare them for life. Maybe you have a list going on your phone or in a journal titled “Good Lessons To Teach My Kids/Grandkids.” Teaching your kids to be informed and life long learners will keep them curious and eager to read, in my opinion and it could lead to several…Great Days 🍎
