The Benefits and Challenges of (Reasonably) Risky Play

(Reasonably) risky play is thrilling and exciting and incredibly important for kids. So why aren't kids getting enough of it these days? Well, the main answer is US - we're often the ones holding kids back from engaging in risky play. Let's be honest - it can be SO hard to watch those little people we love so dearly do something that might cause hurt. So. Very. Hard.  

Unselfie: Why Empathetic Kids Succeed in Our All-About-Me World

This book is powerful. It rests on the premise that today's teens are measurably 40% less empathetic than they were 30 years ago and that today's culture values "me" more than "we." As long as you can look past the excessive usage of acronyms, I HIGHLY recommend it. I discovered concrete explanations for why developing empathy in children is so important...

"Empathy is the root of humanity and the foundation that helps our children become good caring people, but the empathy advantage also gives them a huge edge on happiness and success."

I also discovered that empathy is highly teachable...

"Empathy can be instilled, and it is composed of teachable habits that can be developed, practiced, and lived."

So here are my 5 take-aways...