(NC) Setting children up for success goes beyond academic achievements and providing material things. It also involves instilling values of compassion, empathy and community engagement that lay the foundation for a fulfilling and purposeful life. Here are three key strategies to guide parents in nurturing well-rounded and successful individuals, with a focus on giving back to the community:

1. Education as empowerment: Education is a powerful tool that equips children with the knowledge, skills and confidence to think critically and navigate the complexities of the modern world. Encouraging a love for learning, fostering curiosity and supporting academic pursuits are essential in preparing children for future success. For many families, however, the rising costs of food and goods mean many essential school supplies are simply not within their means. Luckily, there are programs out there to help, including Telus’s Kits for Kids, that provide essential school supplies to children from families in need. Each backpack is filled with a pencil case, colouring pencils, HB pencils, blue pens, erasers, a flexible ruler, exercise books, loose-leaf papers and a colouring book. By prioritizing education as a gateway to opportunity, parents can empower their children to reach their full potential and make meaningful contributions to society.
2. Cultivating resilience and grit: Resilience and grit are invaluable qualities that enable children to overcome challenges, persevere in the face of adversity and bounce back from setbacks. Teaching children the importance of resilience through encouragement, support and positive reinforcement builds their capacity to tackle obstacles with determination and optimism. By fostering a growth mindset and resilience, parents can set the stage for their children to thrive in the face of life’s inevitable ups and downs.
3. Giving back to the community: Instilling a sense of social responsibility and empathy in children is a cornerstone of setting them up for success. Engaging in acts of kindness, volunteering and giving back to the community not only cultivates compassion and empathy but also fosters a deeper understanding of social issues and the importance of making a positive impact. One example of this is Telus Days of Giving. Now entering its 19th year, team members, retirees, family and friends are encouraged to come together to make a meaningful difference in their communities. In 2023, they collectively provided close to $100 million in cash, in-kind contributions, time and programs to global communities. By involving children in community service projects, charitable initiatives and volunteer opportunities, parents nurture a spirit of generosity and civic engagement that helps to shape their children into compassionate and socially conscious individuals.

By fostering a holistic approach to success that encompasses personal growth, social responsibility and a commitment to making a difference, parents empower their children to thrive in all aspects of life and contribute positively to the world around them.