Our world today seems to be filled with violence. It is no wonder why parents are so concerned that their kids might grow into uncaring and aggressive adults.

Parents' concern however, is not unfounded. Parent's can only do so much for their kids. Besides, children spend time away from home where they are exposed to inconsiderate or even cruel acts. Apart from these, children also have their own personalities that parents cannot control.

According to the article What Makes Kids Care?: Teaching Gentleness in a Violent World, published on the APA Help Center Website, there are things parents can do to inspire their children to become caring and responsible individuals,

How you can encourage kids to become caring

Researchers used to believe that the sense of caring only manifests when kids reach adulthood. However, more recent studies show that "children van show signs of empathy and concern from a very early age."

And one study found that "teenagers who were involved in helping others felt very positive about their lives and had high hopes for their own futures."

The most important thing you, as a parent, can do is to let your children know how much it means to you that they behave with kindness and responsibility. When you see your child doing something mean or thoughtless, let them know that you don't want them to do that.

Talk to your child honestly and firmly. Explain to your child why you disapprove of his/her thoughtless behavior. Keep in mind that you disapprove of the act, not the child. Let your child know how deeply you feel about their behavior towards others. If they see that it's important to you, it will become important to them as well. Remember though, that you are there to teach and not make your child feel guilty.

Teaching kids kindness through words and actions

According to one study, there are two parental modeling roles that help teach kids to become caring: "kindness to others and kindness to the child."

Children look to their parents for ideas on how to behave. If your child sees that you are consistently caring, they are more likely to become caring as well.

Do not say one something and act contrary to it. Your child will notice what you did more than what you said.

Let your child be surrounded by loving and caring people so he/she will have more people to look up to.

Treating your kids with dignity and concern is that best way to teach them to treat all things with dignity and concern too.

Pay attention to and praise your child's achievements

What parents can do to counteract outside influences

Parents naturally do the best they can for their kids. But, since they can not be around all the time, they worry that outside influences will undermine their teachings. Experts suggest that parents take the following course of action:

• Encourage them to read books about kindness and compassion.

• Limit their TV time to reduce the amount of violence they watch. Encourage them to watch programs that promote caring and helping.

• Watch programs and movies that your kids want to see.

• Teach your children about altruism and well-known altruists.

Source: APA Help Center