We Can Be Superheroes
February 9, 2021The Power of Kindness
February 23, 2021
In commemoration of Random Acts of Kindness Day, Amanda and I am proud to announce the release of our audio book on Audible.
The Kindness Advantage: Cultivating Compassionate and Connected Children by Dr. Dale Atkins & Amanda Salzhauer, MSW, is a practical guide for parents to teach kids empathy, to inspire a culture of compassion and connection in them, to cultivate what matters most, and to empower them to make a difference in their community.
Summary
In homes and school communities nationwide, there is re-energized interest in the values of community, compassion, and tolerance, and in finding our way to a kinder culture – a culture that starts with our families. Headlines speak of hate crimes, intolerance, and us-versus-them divisiveness.
Recent political events have left many Americans yearning for unity, respect, and compassion in our national discourse. In our schools, bullying continues to be a pervasive problem, and in our homes, “screen-time” poses a constant threat to “family time.” Research indicates that connection and social engagement are key to successful, fulfilling lives, and yet we have never been less connected than we are now.
Perhaps more than any other group, parents recognize the potential damage of this trend. Children who are raised in a culture where giving and compassion are valued become happier and more positively engaged with those around them. They are less likely to treat others disrespectfully. With increased concern about meanness and bullying, you may be among the many parents who see the need for more civil, respectful, and considerate behavior among our children.
We all benefit when children are raised with the understanding that they can impact and influence others by making conscious choices. It’s never too early to start your child on a path of fulfillment through meaningful connection with others. Designed to be read with children as young as 4 years, Dale Atkins and Amanda Salzhauer offer 10 fundamental concepts to weave into your family’s daily life. Using text, quotes, questions and real life stories, The Kindness Advantage is the first compassion book parents need to think about when teaching the necessary skills to be a kind, and yes, compassionate person. Each idea on its own is simple and unintimidating, yet together they form the powerful foundation that parents need – extending beyond teaching “please” and “thank you” – to teach empathy and kindness habits to their children that will last a lifetime.
About Dr. Dale Atkins
Dr. Dale Atkins is a licensed psychologist and author of seven books. She has over forty years of experience as a relationship expert focusing on families, wellness, managing stress, and living a balanced, meaningful life. Dr. Dale appears regularly on NBC’s TODAY. She has two children, six grandchildren, and lives in Connecticut.
About Amanda R. Salzhauer, MSW
Amanda R. Salzhauer, MSW, has worked as a social worker in clinics and private practice. She has been a member of several nonprofit boards, including Riverdale Neighborhood House and the Board of Overseers for the Dartmouth Center for Social Impact. She has three children and lives in New York City.
