The Role of Adults in Shaping a Better World
In a time of uncertainty and unrest, when communities face divisions and hostility, a critical issue looms even larger: the impact this chaos has on children. Young, impressionable minds are witnessing anger and destruction from the very individuals they rely on for love, guidance, and nurturing.
As adults, we hold unique opportunities and responsibilities. Through voting, running for office, and demonstrating leadership, we can shape the world for the better. Years of experience have taught us to manage emotions, resolve conflicts, and persevere through challenges—skills that we are called upon to exemplify, now more than ever.
When teaching children how to build meaningful relationships, it’s essential to remember that they observe everything we do. How we interact with those who look, think, or feel differently sends a powerful message. Our actions speak volumes, shaping their sense of responsibility and ethical behavior.
For those striving to create a safer and brighter future for children, I commend your commitment to rise above destructive patterns. By promoting freedom and the pursuit of happiness through thoughtful choices, rather than conflict, we can set a standard of integrity and peace.
Ultimately, we must hold ourselves accountable to higher standards. By modeling social and emotional awareness, practicing self-management, nurturing friendships, and making ethical, responsible decisions, we teach children the invaluable life lessons that will guide them.
In this effort, MTA supports programs like the Confident Life Program™ for young children in pre-K to 3rd grade. Social and emotional learning (SEL) curricula that are engaging, accessible, and impactful can benefit both children and society as a whole. Every school and youth organization can help raise a generation of future peacemakers—an investment that shapes the world for the better.
Award-Winning Curriculum to Help Children Thrive
The Confident Life Program™ aims to create a foundation for lifelong social-emotional competence, helping children navigate their world with confidence and empathy.
The program employs a diverse, multimodal approach—incorporating storytelling, films, role-playing, and various interactive activities—to aid children in gaining a deeper understanding of these four essential life skills.
Social and Emotional Awareness: Activities and lessons aimed at fostering children’s ability to understand their own emotions and identify them accurately. These activities also emphasize recognizing and empathizing with the emotions of others, helping children to appreciate different perspectives and build emotional intelligence. Examples include storytelling exercises where children discuss characters’ emotions, role-playing scenarios, and guided discussions about feelings and empathy.
Self-Management: Strategies and methods designed to help children cultivate the ability to regulate their emotions and behaviors effectively. This includes managing stress, resisting impulsive reactions, and maintaining determination in the face of difficulties. Activities may include using CLP feelings charts to assist teachers in setting up a calming space, journaling to encourage reflection on emotions, and establishing personal goals to foster perseverance and self-control.
Ethical and Responsible Decision-Making: Guidance to help children make thoughtful, ethical, and constructive choices regarding their personal and social behavior. This includes evaluating consequences of actions, considering others’ needs, and choosing the most positive and productive course of action. Activities might include analyzing case studies of moral dilemmas, discussing the outcomes of various choices, or participating in community service projects that highlight the importance of responsibility and ethical behavior.
Help Us Create More Peacemakers in Your Community
To learn more about this program or to bring it to your school, please visit The Confident Life Program. If you are a business or an individual passionate about making a difference, consider donating the Confident Life Program™ curriculum to a school or youth organization. Visit the Sponsorship Form to explore this fantastic opportunity to support children in your community.
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