Benefits of Community Involvement for Children
The old saying that it takes a village to raise a child still applies. Children and adults alike benefit from the presence of others. Communities help us connect with one another and feel included. This is crucial for developing children who are learning about the world around them and their place in it. Here’s how being involved in the community helps children thrive.
Sense of Belonging
People do best when they feel like they’re part of something bigger than themselves. Children especially rely on this sense of belonging to figure out who they are. It allows them to see where they fit in and what makes them stand out. Children also need to know there are people around that can be counted on when they need help.
Building Relationships
Our relationships with others help build our individual worlds. Knowing how to build strong friendships is important for children. By being involved in a community, children meet people they wouldn’t meet by going to school. This can lead to unexpected connections and expand their horizons. Learning how to build these connections early leads to more success in networking as an adult.
Improved Self-Esteem
Working toward a cause among others with common goals makes children feel truly needed. Some children become insecure when they see people older than themselves making more of a difference in the world. Knowing they’re appreciated and contributing to something meaningful can make them feel important. This confidence may even empower them to accomplish great things with small actions like helping to make care packages for homeless veterans.
Increased Empathy
Interacting with people from all walks of life will help your child understand that people aren’t all that different. It’s difficult for some to put others’ problems into perspective unless they see them firsthand. Helping out in the community will make your child more aware of problems the community faces and how he/she can make a difference in the world.
Educational Opportunities
Community and family engagement help children achieve more. Students do best when they have a strong support system. Being involved in school clubs, groups, and sports teams makes school more fun, which can also be a motivating factor. Children learn to believe in themselves, and this confidence leads to improved performance in school and beyond.
Our Brevard Catholic schools are more than educational institutions; each school is its own Christ-centered community where care and concern for others is daily practice. We encourage students to become involved and serve those in need. Students learn to be creative and critical thinkers who integrate faith, moral leadership, and compassionate service to make a better world. Through a low student-teacher ratio, classroom technology, and a variety of enrichment activities, we strive to inspire excellence in our students. Contact us at Brevard County Catholic Schools (brevardcatholicschools.org) to learn more!