Now that you are confident to  teach and train the kids lets dive  a bit deeper on each of the basic 10 principles of Sanathana Dharma along with some specific activities for the young toddlers

1. AHIMSA (Non-Violence):

Parents and teachers must work regularly in teaching children about ahimsa, or non-violence, during the kids’ very early years as well.

• Teach children to be kind and gentle with their words and actions.
• Use stories and role-playing to show the importance of being kind to animals and friends.

This teaching and training will go a long-way in your kids’ life that fosters human feelings and emotions of happy living with co-operation and co-existence eco-system like

• Empathy
• kindness, and
• peaceful conflict resolution.

These foundational socio-emotional skills help the young toddlers form

• positive relationships
• reduce aggression
• build a strong sense of compassion and
• respect for others.

By internalizing ahimsa, the toddlers within their pure innocent hearts develop a caring & nurturing attitude towards all living beings, nature, mother earth contributing to a more harmonious and cooperative environment as they grow.

This early exposure to non-violence, ahimsa, promotes emotional regulation and a lifelong commitment to peaceful interactions.

Go to top ↑ :  10 Principles to be practiced by Parents and Teachers 

2. SATYA (Truthfulness):

Practicing ‘Satya’ (truthfulness) by young toddlers can have several benefits for their development and overall character formation

• Encourage children to always tell the truth.
• Use simple stories and examples to illustrate why honesty is important.

Practical Ways to Encourage Satya or Truthfulness in Toddlers

1. Modelling Behaviour: Parents and Teacher should model honest behaviour, as children learn by observing adults.

1. Positive Reinforcement: Praise and reward honesty to encourage the behaviour.
2. Open Communication: Create an environment where children feel safe to tell the truth without fear of punishment.
3. Storytelling and Role-Playing: Use stories and role-playing to illustrate the value of truthfulness.

Practicing ‘Satya’ (Truthfulness), as explained in Itihasa such as Ramayana ,  not only benefits toddlers in their immediate environment but also sets the stage for them to grow into responsible, ethical, and well-adjusted adults.

Go to top ↑ :  10 Principles to be practiced by Parents and Teachers 

3. DHARMA (Righteousness):

Dharma, often associated with moral and ethical duties, helps shape children’s character and behaviour in positive ways.

1. • Explain the concept of doing the right thing and helping others.
   • Use games and activities that promote sharing and taking turns.

Activities to Foster Dharma (Righteousness)

1. Games and Activities: Engage in games and activities that emphasize fair play, sharing, and helping others.
2. Community Service: Involve children in simple acts of community service, teaching them the importance of contributing positively to society.
3. Discussions and Reflections: Have age-appropriate discussions and reflections on the importance of making righteous choices in everyday situations.

Teaching and training young toddlers in Dharma (Righteousness) can have profound benefits for their holistic development.

You may want to refer to the ‘Bhagavad Gita’ of Mahabharata where the various aspects of Dharma as explained there-in

Integrating the principles of Dharma into the early education and upbringing of toddlers, will help nurture well-versed, ethical, and responsible individuals who contribute positively to society.

Go to top ↑ :  10 Principles to be practiced by Parents and Teachers 

4. SHRADDHA (Faith and Respect for Self and Others):

Shraddha encompasses both faith and respect, guiding children to trust, believe, and show reverence in various aspects of life.

1. • Teach children to respect their parents, teachers, and elders.
   • Use activities that involve showing gratitude and appreciation.
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Teaching and training young toddlers in Shraddha (Faith and Respect) can significantly impact their development and overall character.

Activities to Foster Shraddha (Faith and Respect for Self and Others)

1. Prayer and Meditation: Introduce simple prayer and meditation practices to instill a sense of faith and calm.
2. Respectful Communication: Teach and practice respectful communication, emphasizing polite language and active listening.
3. Cultural and Religious Education: Expose children to various cultural and various religious practices, fostering respect for diversity.
4. Community Involvement: Involve children in community activities that promote respect and faith, such as volunteer work or attending cultural events.

By introducing the principles of Shraddha (faith and respect to self and others )  into the early education and upbringing of toddlers, the educational eco-system can help nurture well-rounded, respectful, and confident individuals who contribute positively  not only to their self and others but also to the society at large.

Go to top ↑ :  10 Principles to be practiced by Parents and Teachers 

5. KARUNA (Compassion):

Teaching and training young toddlers in Karuna (Compassion) can have thoughtful benefits on their emotional, social, and cognitive development.

Compassion is the ability to understand and feel for others, leading to kindness and empathy

1. • Encourage children to care for others and be empathetic.
   • Use storybooks and activities that involve helping friends in need.

Activities to Foster ‘Karuna’ or Compassion

1. Helping at Home: Involve children in simple chores and tasks that help family members, teaching them the importance of contributing and caring for others.
2. Volunteer Work: Participate in community service or volunteer activities as a family, showing children the impact of helping others.
3. Caring for Animals: Teach children to care for pets or animals, fostering a sense of responsibility and kindness.
4. Group Activities: Engage in group activities that require teamwork and cooperation, emphasizing the importance of supporting one another.
5. Discussion and Reflection: Have age-appropriate discussions about feelings and the importance of kindness, encouraging children to reflect on their actions.

The principles of Karuna into the early education and upbringing of toddlers, parents and caregivers can help nurture kind, empathetic, and socially responsible individuals who contribute positively to society.

Go to top ↑ :  10 Principles to be practiced by Parents and Teachers 

6.  SHANTI  (Peace):

Shanti or peace encompasses inner calmness, harmony, and the ability to handle conflicts and stress peacefully.

1. • Teach children to stay calm and peaceful.
   • Use simple breathing exercises or quiet time to help them understand relaxation.

Activities to Foster Shanti or Peace in young toddlers:

1. Quiet Time: Establish regular quiet times during the day for children to relax and unwind.
2. Nature Walks: Take children on nature walks to help them connect with the peacefulness of the natural environment.
3. Art and Music: Engage in art and music activities that promote calmness and creativity.
4. Group Activities: Participate in group activities that emphasize cooperation and peaceful interactions.
5. Conflict Resolution Exercises: Use role-playing to teach and practice peaceful conflict resolution strategies.

By integrating the principles of Shanti into the early education and upbringing of toddlers, parents and caregivers can help nurture calm, resilient, strong and emotionally balanced individuals who contribute positively to society.

Go to top ↑ :  10 Principles to be practiced by Parents and Teachers 

7. SANTHOSHA  (Contentment):

Santhosha, which means contentment or satisfaction, helps children appreciate what they have and find joy in the present moment.

1. • Help children appreciate what they have and be happy with it.
   • Use gratitude exercises, like saying thank you for the things they have.

Activities to Foster Santhosha or Contentment

1. Gratitude Journals: Keep a simple gratitude journal where children can draw or write about things they are thankful for.
2. Mindful Breathing: Practice mindful breathing exercises to help children focus on the present moment.
3. Nature Exploration: Spend time in nature, encouraging children to appreciate its beauty and tranquility.
4. Creative Activities: Engage in creative activities like drawing, painting, or crafting, which help children find joy in the process rather than the outcome.
5. Simple Living: Teach the value of simple living by focusing on experiences rather than material possessions.

Integrating the principles of Santosha into the early education and upbringing of toddlers, can help nurture happy and emotionally balanced children who find joy in the present moment and appreciate the simple pleasures in life.

Go to top ↑ :  10 Principles to be practiced by Parents and Teachers 

8. SVADHYAYA  (Self-Study and Reflection):

Svadhyaya involves self-awareness, self-reflection, and the continuous pursuit of knowledge coupled with wisdom

1. • Encourage self-awareness and understanding of their feelings.
   • Use activities that involve talking about emotions and how to handle them.

Activities to Foster Svadyaya or Self-Study and Reflection

1. Reflective Reading: Read books together and discuss the characters, plot, and lessons learned, encouraging children to reflect on the story.
2. Nature Walks: Take nature walks and encourage children to observe and reflect on their surroundings, fostering mindfulness and self-awareness.
3. Art and Creativity: Engage in creative activities like drawing, painting, or crafting, allowing children to express and reflect on their emotions and experiences.
4. Daily Reflections: Establish a routine of daily reflections where children share something they learned or experienced each day.
5. Self-Assessment: Create opportunities for self-assessment, helping children reflect on their achievements and areas for growth.

By integrating the principles of Svadhyaya into the early education and upbringing of toddlers will help nurture and become self-aware, self-observant , reflective, and lifelong learners who are equipped to navigate the complexities of life with confidence and resilience.

Go to top ↑ :  10 Principles to be practiced by Parents and Teachers 

9.  LOKA SAMGRAHA  (Welfare of All):

Loka Samgraha or ‘welfare of all’ emphasizes the importance of working for the welfare of all beings, promoting altruism, community spirit, and social responsibility.

1. • Teach children to care for their environment and community.
   • Involve them in simple activities like picking up litter or helping plant a garden.

Activities to Foster Loka Samgraha the Welfare of All

1. Volunteer Together: Participate in family volunteer activities, such as planting trees, visiting elderly homes, or helping at local shelters.
2. Create Care Packages: Make care packages for those in need, involving children in the process of selecting and packing items.
3. Environmental Projects: Engage in environmental projects, such as recycling, gardening, or cleaning local parks, to teach children about caring for the planet.
4. Cultural Exchange: Introduce children to different cultures and communities, fostering respect and appreciation for diversity.
5. Gratitude Practice: Encourage children to express gratitude and recognize the efforts of others, reinforcing the value of community support.

By integrating the principles of Loka Samgraha into the early education and upbringing of toddlers, parents and caregivers can help nurture compassionate, responsible, and community-minded individuals who are committed to making a positive impact on the world.

Go to top ↑ :  10 Principles to be practiced by Parents and Teachers 

10. APARIGRAHA  (non-possessiveness):

Aparigraha , the non-possessiveness , encourages minimalism, contentment, and the practice of letting go of unnecessary desires and attachments.

1. • Teach children the value of sharing and not being overly attached to possessions.
   • Use activities that involve sharing toys and taking turns.

Here are some activities designed to foster Aparigraha (non-possessiveness) in young toddlers:

1. Sharing Circle

• Activity: Sit in a circle with a small group of children and pass around a favorite toy or item. Encourage each child to share a turn playing with it for a short time before passing it to the next person.

• Benefit: This activity teaches children the joy of sharing and taking turns.

2. Storytelling

• Activity: Read stories that highlight themes of generosity, sharing, and the importance of relationships over possessions. Stories like “The Rainbow Fish” by Marcus Pfister can be very effective.

• Benefit: Stories can help children understand complex concepts through relatable narratives and characters.

3. Toy Rotation

• Activity: Set up a toy rotation system where children exchange toys with one another regularly. This can be done weekly or monthly.

• Benefit: Rotating toys helps children appreciate different toys without the need to own them permanently.

4. Gratitude Journal

• Activity: Help children create a simple gratitude journal where they can draw or paste pictures of things they are thankful for.

• Benefit: Focusing on gratitude helps children appreciate what they have and reduces the desire for more.

5. Clean-Up Game

• Activity: Turn clean-up time into a fun game by setting a timer and challenging children to see how quickly they can tidy up their toys.

• Benefit: This activity promotes organization and the idea of taking care of shared spaces.

6. Donation Drive

• Activity: Organize a small donation drive where children can choose a few of their toys to donate to less fortunate kids. Explain the purpose and importance of helping others.

• Benefit: This teaches generosity and the joy of giving.

7. Mindfulness Activities

• Activity: Introduce simple mindfulness exercises, such as deep breathing or nature walks, to help children focus on the present moment and appreciate their surroundings.

• Benefit: Mindfulness practices encourage children to find joy and satisfaction in experiences rather than possessions.

8. Role-Playing

• Activity: Engage children in role-playing scenarios where they act out situations involving sharing and caring for others, such as a tea party or a pretend play store.

• Benefit: Role-playing helps children practice social skills and understand the value of non-possessiveness in various contexts.

9. Art and Craft Sharing

• Activity: Organize art and craft sessions where children use communal supplies to create projects together. Encourage them to share materials and collaborate.

• Benefit: Sharing art supplies fosters creativity and teamwork.

10. Nature Exploration

• Activity: Take children on nature walks and teach them to appreciate the beauty of the natural world. Discuss how nature provides for everyone and the importance of taking only what is needed.

• Benefit: Nature exploration helps children develop a sense of wonder and respect for the environment, reinforcing the concept of non-possessiveness.

Go to top ↑ :  10 Principles to be practiced by Parents and Teachers 

These activities can be integrated into a preschool setting or at home to help YOUNG TODDLERS ( in the age group of 2 years to 5 years children)  internalize the values of SANATHANA DHARMA, that refers to the timeless wisdom of universal principles

Introducing the principles of Sanathana Dharma to preschool children is not only beneficial to building a strong moral and ethical character of the child but also building of a way of life-style thus furthering the construction of a strong Bharat as a Country, bring it to International Standards of Happy co-existing Lifestyle with other Humans and Natural Environments.

In this context teaching and training the principles of ‘Sanathana Dharma’ becomes immediately imperative, of vital importance and crucial in these fast changing nuclear family scenarios, increased rates of crime, terrorism, increased rates of living relationships and divorce rates , decreasing rates of tolerances of person-to-person transactions fast paced life etc…  .

Build You Kids early on during their formative skills development in lines with Sanathana Dharma principles as a Way of living Life filled with  Happiness and Courage of being a Loving Nurturing Innovative Self-Aware and Caring Human-being who could build and be a part of a better society , evolved Country and a great eco-system to Live in Peace and World of  Harmony with Nature.

===== AUM TAT SAT ====

Disclaimer : This is a compilation from sources including various books , discussions , self-experiences and AI internet sources. The intention of the Author is only to give the glimpse of the indicative benefits for interested parents and teachers to get hands-on  " What and Why of Sanathana Dharma for toddlers" along with a few indicative activities that parents and teachers can work towards introducing the concepts of 'Sanathana Dharma' to the toddlers in the age of 2 year to 5 years