Teach your kids to stand up for the underdog and protect their friends when they’re down. Remind them that it’s okay to not always be the cool kid and that being different is a gift. Instill in them that being kind is always better than being cool.
Not long ago, I was part of a moment that shattered my mama heart. My nephew and my son were on a hammock together. Without hesitation, my nephew asked me, “Is he stupid?” and let me tell you–even as a 38 year old mom of two–those words felt like a gut-punch. When I asked why he would ask that, I was met with another blow: “He’s weird and doesn’t talk to us.” While I held my composure in the moment and did my best to teach him about autism, human differences, and kindness, those words from a family member felt almost more hurtful than they would from a stranger; not just because of what was said, but because those words were also spoken right in front of my son. Moments like these are difficult reminders that kids notice differences, and if we don’t guide them, they may not always respond with kindness– instead unintentionally weaponizing them. That’s why it’s so important to talk to our children about empathy, acceptance, and the power of words. No child should feel small for being exactly who they are and none of us should stay silent when unkindness happens.
Within the last few weeks, our boys have finally started playing together; wanting to be around one another. Our youngest is such a sweet, inclusive little boy. He always asks his big brother’s permission for things—”Can I give you a hug?” “Do you want to play with me?” “Do you want to go outside?” And every time, his big brother says yes. He says yes because his little brother has learned to be patient with his needs. He says yes because he has learned that his little brother is a safe space for him, and that he will always be kind and look out for him. Little brother has boundaries; he explains them and for the most part, his big brother respects them—and if in the rare chance he doesn’t, he speaks up and tells us.
The important part here is that our youngest has learned to be inclusive, kind, and patient to those who may be different than him–all by learning through his relationship with his brother. We talk about autism, disabilities, people who are different from us and what makes them special and unique. It’s important to say those words and bring awareness and acceptance to our children. Our boys are learning inclusivity because it’s important to us as a family, and because it’s important to their relationship—one relies on others to feel accepted, welcome, and loved.
Submitted to “The Common Thread” Magazine anonymously by a local parent and Huntington Matters Community Forum member.
First Day of School Dates:
Tuesday, September 2, 2025:
Cold Spring Harbor Central School District – School Calendar
Commack Union Free School District – School Calendar
Half Hollow Hills Central School District – School Calendar
Huntington Union Free School District – School Calendar
South Huntington Union Free School District – School Calendar
St. Anthony’s High School – Seniors – School Calendar
Wednesday, September 3, 2025:
Elwood Union Free School District – School Calendar
Harborfields Central School District – School Calendar
St. Anthony’s High School – Juniors – School Calendar
Thursday, September 4, 2025:
Northport-East Northport Union Free School District – School Calendar
St. Anthony’s High School – Sophomores – School Calendar
Friday, September 5, 2025:
St. Anthony’s High School – Freshman – School Calendar
Huntington Matters wishes all students a great first day of school!
