Updated: Jan. 28, 2021
Originally Published: May 29, 2016
If we haven’t met, and you don’t know my children, yet you still feel comfortable enough to smile, wave, or engage with them, I want to express my gratitude. Thank you for not perceiving us as mere “strangers.” I see you as a part of our wider community, and I am raising my children to do the same. Even if you seem quirky or unconventional, we will still regard you as a fellow human being.
When you smile at my kids, it helps remind me that the little one racing towards the nearest puddle (with only one shoe, no less) while giggling uncontrollably is actually quite amusing, perhaps even charming. Your friendly gestures encourage me to appreciate these moments too, and they create a more inviting environment for my children.
I find joy in watching my kids respond to you, especially when our 4-year-old daughter initiates conversations with parents, grandparents, or even the slightly disheveled couple attempting to enjoy a nap in the shade while my daughter enthusiastically offers them carrot sticks. (I apologize for interrupting your rest, and I appreciate your patience while I chased after her brother, who was busy splashing in a puddle.)
Yes, there are dangers in the world, and while it’s possible that you might be one of them, I believe it’s essential for my children to learn how to navigate social interactions. That’s why, even at ages 4 and 2, they are still under close supervision. During this time, I am focusing on instilling in them the ability to trust their instincts. They need to understand that if someone makes them uncomfortable, they should not engage with that person, accept anything from them, or go anywhere with them. At this young age, I am right there, monitoring their interactions.
Moreover, I want to teach them by example. It’s important for my children to feel deserving of respect and a baseline of trust from others until proven otherwise. Yes, sometimes a person may evoke unease without a clear reason, and it’s crucial that my kids learn to discern their feelings while also examining them later. This requires a fine balance between trust and caution.
While I am deeply concerned about reports of child abduction, which, despite being statistically rare, are terrifying, I don’t believe the solution lies in retreating into our own little worlds and viewing every unfamiliar face as a threat. Such attitudes can fracture community bonds and breed hostility among neighbors, as illustrated by incidents where individuals confront others over perceived wrongdoings, such as using food stamps in public.
Fortunately, most people are good-hearted. Current crime statistics suggest that children are safer now than they have been in decades. While the data can vary by region, I have consistently found that treating others with trust and respect yields more positive outcomes than defaulting to suspicion.
I will not instruct my children to fear every unfamiliar person they encounter, as that would mean fearing nearly everyone in the world. This is particularly important in a diverse society where many individuals may appear different from us.
Of course, my children might occasionally feel a sense of mistrust for reasons that may not be fully clear to them, and they should pay attention to those instincts. Yet, being friendly does not mean they should always defer to others. I aspire for my children to grow into assertive and independent individuals.
In conclusion, teaching my children to embrace openness rather than suspicion is vital. Such a mindset prevents the cycle of fear leading to anger and ultimately to hate. As Yoda wisely indicated, we must be cautious of where our emotions lead us.
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Summary
Encouraging children to interact with strangers fosters community bonds and helps them develop essential social skills. While safety is a priority, teaching kids to trust their instincts while also respecting others can create a more open and accepting environment.
Keyphrase: Encouraging Children to Engage with Strangers
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