Summer of Service Empowers Kids to continue developing genuine Empathy by putting Empathy into action

Congratulations, you made it through Maycember! The month of May demands a lot of attention from both parents and students. And the month also stirs up emotions and chaos while we juggle EOG’s, finals (no pressure or anything kids, these grades only affect your future college applications), projects (they somehow always end up involving us and multiple trips to Michael’s), parties (hello family calendar), swim meets (and thunderstorm delays), graduations (plus trips to the mall for that suit jacket or dress), rehearsals, recitals, vacation planning (shoot, I forgot to make a dog boarding reservation and had to spend extra money to expedite passports that expire six months before the actual expiration date, so why not just state that date on the passport!), packing (now where is this and that?), and trying to remember to breathe.

Here is your virtual Certificate of Achievement that you seriously deserve:
Now you might think I am being comedic handing out that certificate, but I am actually being empathetic. I sincerely feel and relate to everything you have going on. It’s a lot. And I can step back from own self to recognize and feel what is going on outside of my own shadow.

Recently, I have had a few interactions with individuals who completely lack empathy. After interacting with these individuals and hearing the word “I” more than any other word, I found myself coming away frustrated. Even upset. I felt invisible, I felt unheard, even alone during the interaction. Innately, we have the expectation that others will empathize with us, comfort us, and see outside of themselves. It comes from a soul-deep yearning that we have when we take the brave step towards vulnerability.

So how can we help our children become more innately empathetic and contributing members of society, so that they grow up to be empathetic adults who want to actively help make the world a better place?

Get them involved with The Lunch Project’s Summer of Service program!
Studies show that empathy is a necessary component of a healthy child. The Lunch Project’s Summer of Service teaches empathy by providing elementary-aged kids with an attainable goal and a relatable way to help others. Through the SOS program, not only are children developing empathy by raising money and awareness for a good cause, they are tapping into their creativity and passions.

The Lunch Project understands how summer schedules can be challenging, so they designed the program to work on your own schedule. You and your children decide on the activity, including when and where. And the program is free! All you need to do is pick up your participation packet, free SOS t-shirt, and cool swag. The only caveat is the pickup locations are at Golden Cow Creamery, so you might have to indulge your child with a scrumptious, locally-made ice cream treat! And get one for yourself too. You deserve it!

There are two packet pick up dates:

Saturday, June 9: 12 PM to 2 PM
Golden Cow Creamery, Morrison Shopping Center
720 Gov Morrison Street
Charlotte, NC 28211

Saturday, June 16: 12 PM to 2 PM
Golden Cow Creamery, Morrison Shopping Center
720 Gov Morrison Street
Charlotte, NC 28211

Visit The Lunch Project to learn more and signup!
When your kids inevitably approach you with their summer boredom wails, know that Summer of Service has your back. Examples of past activities have included: movie nights, lemonade stands, pool parties, laps and hoops for hunger, bake sales, dog walking, handmade cards and headbands, and more. Let your child decide and empower their entrepreneurial spirit.

In July, guest Speaker Bea Moise Bea Moise, M.S., BCCS., Board Certified Cognitive Specialist, a respected Parent Coach at Southeast Psych, and creator of A Child Like Mine, LLC., will be speaking on cultivating empathy in our children at the Morrison Library. Save the date on your calendars and expect more information in the coming weeks.