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Parenting playbook » Loving forward – the driving force of love

Loving forward – the driving force of love

    The term "loving forward" can perhaps best be translated in Hungarian as "to move forward with love" or "to pass on love". This term encompasses the principle of looking to the future with a loving and positive attitude, helping to create a better, happier and more loving world through our actions and decisions. 

    Why is the "loving forward" principle important?

    • Positive outlook : The "loving forward" attitude helps us look at the future optimistically and positively, which can be motivating and inspiring.
    • Empathy and Compassion : Our children learn how to be empathetic and compassionate towards others, which improves their human relationships.
    • Mental health : A positive and loving attitude contributes to maintaining and improving mental health.
    • Social responsibility : The principle of "loving forward" helps our children to be responsible and caring members of society.
    • Conflict management : A loving attitude helps to resolve conflicts peacefully and constructively.

    10 tips to teach our children about "loving forward".

    • Positive Communication : Teach them how to express themselves positively and encouragingly to others. Let's set an example by communicating kindly and supportively ourselves.
    • Practicing Gratitude : Encourage them to find something to be grateful for every day. This helps them notice the positive things in their lives and strengthens their positive outlook.
    • Helpfulness : Teach them to help others whenever they have the opportunity. They can even contribute to the happiness of others with small things, such as a kind word or a small gesture.
    • Empathy Development : Show them how to empathize with others and how to be compassionate. Talk to them about other people's feelings and experiences.
    • Conflict Management : Teach them how to handle conflicts with love and understanding. Let's set an example of how to resolve disputes calmly and respectfully.
    • Self-acceptance : Help them to accept and love themselves. Talk to them about the importance of self-esteem and how they can handle criticism positively.
    • Environmental awareness : Let's encourage them to love and protect the environment. Let's show them how they can live environmentally conscious and how they can contribute to protecting the planet. 
    • Creativity and self-expression : Support them to express themselves creatively. Let's help them find their own voice and dare to create.
    • Openness and tolerance : Teach them to be open to other people's opinions and lifestyles. Talk to them about the importance of tolerance and acceptance.
    • Bringing joy to others : Encourage them to do good to others and find joy in making others happy. Let's talk about how love and kindness affects us. 

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    As we already wrote in the introduction, the "loving forward" approach encourages us to live our lives with love and a positive attitude, and to pass this attitude on to our children. But how can we talk about this with our children of different ages? Here are some arguments and advice to help you do this. 

    Toddlers (3-6 years old)

    • Arguments:
      • At this age, children are still very open and curious. Talking about loving attitudes can help them learn positive and compassionate behavior.
      • Understanding the importance of emotional safety and love at this age lays the foundation for their later empathic and social skills.
    • Tips:
      • Use simple language : Explain the importance of love and compassion in simple words and examples.
      • Fables and stories : Use fables and stories that demonstrate the power of love and kindness.
      • Role-plays : Play role-plays where children can practice kindness and empathy.

    Elementary school children (ages 7-12)

    • Arguments:
      • At this age, children have a better understanding of the world and human relationships. The principle of "loving forward" helps them to become positive and supportive community members.
      • Teaching a loving attitude can help develop social skills and manage conflict.
    • Tips:
      • Initiate conversations : Talk to them about how they feel and behave towards others.
      • Positive examples : Show them positive examples of expressions of love and kindness in everyday life.
      • Shared Activities : Engage in shared activities that help practice love and empathy, such as charity events or community service.

    Teenagers (13-18 years old)

    • Arguments:
      • Teenagers are already capable of deeper thinking and understanding abstract concepts. The principle of "loving forward" helps them to become responsible and caring adults.
      • Teaching a loving attitude helps maintain mental health and develop a positive outlook on life.
    • Tips:
      • Open dialogue : Initiate open and honest conversations about the importance of love and empathy.
      • Volunteerism and Community Service : Encourage them to participate in volunteer work and community service where they can practice the principles of love and kindness.
      • Supportive environment : Create a supportive and loving home environment where they can freely talk about their feelings and thoughts.

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