1. Plant a peace tree in honor of war veterans Talk about the significance of planting a sapling or seeds that will one day grow to be something beautiful. (Tip: for best results, choose a tree that is a species native to your area.) Together discuss how this gesture represents peace. Below, 10 tips to prepare your mind, body and wardrobe for the new school year, while helping other kids around the world get an education, too.
2. Explore a current conflict together Ask your child, “whose point of view is expressed in the story?” “What other voices or points of view are missing?” Ask your child what he thinks the other voices would say.
3. Talk about local heroes who promote peace How do these people play a part in the peace process? Examples can include police, firefighters, medical personnel, rescue workers and teachers.
4. Ask: "What do you have in common?" Ask what your child may have in common with a child from another conflict region. Do some research with your child to learn more about the culture, traditions and even the politics of the region.
5. Volunteer together at a center for new immigrants You’ll learn about different cultures, the hardships people face when they settle in a different country, and even make new friends you may not otherwise meet. What can you and your child teach them about your community? What can you learn from them about their world?
6. Celebrate International Day of Peace every September 21st The International Day of Peace was established in 1981 by the United Nations General Assembly. The day is designated as a time of non-violence and cease-fire around the world. Designate a family dinner to celebrating this day of peace and ask each family member to research and give a toast to specific act of peace. Learn more about this year’s theme here.