As a parent, you want the best for your child - and that includes their happiness. And it really is important.

We are talking true happiness and fulfillment here, not instant gratification. 

Numerous studies have been done that demonstrate the positive effects of happiness and fulfillment on childhood development and growth.

• Children who are happier have higher self-esteem and are more resilient. Research has shown that happiness is a predictor of future success in life.

• Kids who have a sense of purpose and meaning in life are more likely to have better academic performance and engage in fewer risky behaviors.

• Children who have a positive outlook on life are more likely to have better mental health and social skills.

• Happiness and fulfillment even impact physical health. Children who are happier have been found to have stronger immune systems and fewer instances of illness.

Happiness and fulfillment is really important in childhood development and growth. As parents it's important that we prioritize these values in the lives of our children to help them to thrive and reach their full potential.

But what does it mean to cultivate happiness in childhood?

One way to cultivate happiness in kids is to help them practice The Eight Pillars of Happiness and build those eight skills needed to create happiness and fulfillment in their lives. 

Today we are focusing on helping kids practice the pillars of curiosity and compassion. Curiosity encourages children to explore and discover the world around them, while compassion helps them to connect with others and understand their feelings.

Here are some simple ways to practice these pillars with your kids:

• Foster Curiosity: Encourage your child to ask questions and be curious about the world. Take them on nature walks, visit museums or try out new recipes together. These experiences will help them learn new things and broaden their perspective.
• Cultivate Compassion: Teach your child empathy by modeling kindness and understanding. Encourage them to consider the feelings of others. Show them the importance of being compassionate and supportive of others, even when they may not understand them.
• Embrace Mistakes: Encourage your child to take risks and make mistakes. Help them understand that it's okay to fail and that mistakes are an opportunity to learn and grow.

By practicing curiosity and compassion with your child, you can help them develop a sense of joy and fulfillment in their daily lives.

Happiness is not a destination - it's a journey that we all must choose to embark on together.

Sources:
University of California, Berkeley, "The Science of Happiness"
Greater Good Magazine, "Why Purpose Matters for Children"
American Academy of Pediatrics, "Promoting Positive Adolescent Health Behaviors and Outcomes: Thriving in the 21st Century"
University of California, Riverside, "Happiness and Health: An Overview of Current Research"