Tolerance is the ability to accept and respect ideas, opinions, beliefs or cultural forms that differ from one’s own. Being tolerant is being sensitive to the diversity in the world and responding to the needs of others.

It is a value that must be taught to children from a very early age, starting with learning “frustration tolerance.” As we all know, little ones – some more than others – are impulsive and seek immediate satisfaction of their needs. If we leave this aspect uneducated, it is very likely that they will become adults with relationship problems. Therefore, we must teach them to be patient, persevere and strive for what they pursue until they achieve it. It is necessary not to give in to tantrums or give them everything-they-ask for at the moment.

When children are of school age they also learn to be tolerant by working as a team and playing with different classmates and not always with the same friends. This should be encouraged from home by encouraging children to expand their group of friends and share with different boys and girls. At this stage, comments like “So-and-so or Menganito don’t like me” often arise. It is necessary to investigate why they think this way. If it is a prejudice, then attempts at exclusion or segregation may arise. For this reason, they must be encouraged to be more open, overcoming differences for the sake of good school coexistence.

When children are older, they must be taught to debate and defend their points of view without fighting, offending or imposing criteria; Invite them to participate and enjoy social activities with varied groups and not just with school friends. And since the cultural heritage is very rich and vast, why not learn to listen to and dance to different types of music from Peru and the world…

The example we set as parents is very important by addressing others with respect and kindness by listening to others attentively and without interrupting, by teaching them that “it is better to laugh with others than to laugh (make fun) of others”, as this will help us. that in the future they will be empathetic, supportive and reflective people, increasing our capacity to have better leaders to build a culture of peace, mutual respect and harmony.

Gloria Elena Gurmendi, C.Ps.P 625

Psychologist