Humanism for Kids

by Family of Humanists (1997, 2008)
P.O. Box 4153
Salem, Oregon 97302
Phone - 503/371-1255.

A brief  background of the Family of Humanists and summary of the book.

The Family of Humanists is a group of families and individuals from around the United States and abroad who are applying the Humanist philosophy of life to issues of interest to families and family members of all ages.  The Family of Humanists works to provide publications of interest to individuals and families, including a monthly newsletter, books Why Evolution? and Humanism for Kids, as well as pamphlets describing the philosophy.  For more information about the programs, additional resources and publications of this Humanist organization, see: http://www.familyofhumanists.org/

Humanism for Kids, a fabulous resource for Humanist families and children, is an illustrated booklet developed to teach and discuss Humanism for young readers. It is the result of efforts by several adults, youth, and children, growing with each new contribution.  The first part of this 38 page booklet (What us Humanism?) includes such topics as what Humanists believe, the Golden Rule, creation, evolution, how nature works by itself, the scientific method, democracy and freedom, and much, much more. The second part (Getting Along with People) includes sections on listening, being sensitive to others, forgiving, sharing, helping and working together (and, again, much more). This book belongs in every Humanist educational program for children as well as in every home where Humanists live. The current price of Humanism for Kids is $6 for a single copy and $20 for four copies - including postage in the United States.  Permission to quote portions of the book has been granted by the Family of Humanists, Inc., PO Box 4153, Salem, Oregon 97302.  The director of the Family of Humanists, Lloyd Kumley, can be reached at - lloydk@spiritone.com.

Objectives. As the authors state, "this books is for young people who want to learn more about humanism." The objective of the book and the lesson plan, therefore, is quite simple and direct: to understand the major concepts of Humanism and, as importantly, to practice the precepts of Humanism in one's daily life - at home, in school and in one's community.  The book would be a welcome addition to a library for children in the age range of 8 to 12.

Suggested procedures.  Read the book, of course, with your students or your children - paying particular attention to the questions at the end of practically each section.  There is enough information in each to stimulate students to want to learn more. Here, then, is a brief sampler of what you, as a teacher and/or parent, can examine with your "kids":

-- In the section on the Golden Rule, also be sure to check "Versions of the Golden Rule in 21 World Religions" at -- www.religioustolerance.org/reciproc.htm.

-- On the topic of creation myths, see how many you can find in other sources, e.g., see "A large group of links to Creation Myths from a variety of cultures from around the world" at: www.magictails.com/creationlinks.html

-- Have your students "google" the topic of Evolution and see how many children's books on evolution you can find, e.g., I found 100 items (check some of them out). 

-- Do the same with the topic of nature. Start with How Nature Works/100 Ways Parents and Kids Can Share the Secrets of Nature at:
www.bestwebbuys.com/How_Nature_Works/100_Ways_Parents_and_Kids_Can_Share_the_Secrets-ISBN_9780895773913.ht...

-- For the section on "What does ‘God" mean?", how many different concepts can one find?

-- "Making good things happen" (page 11) explores the idea of "Working to make things better is what humanists try to do."  It asks students to "make a plan and then get busy!"  That is a great thing to do.....

-- There is an excellent thought-provoking question on page 13: "When it comes to being good friends, how important is it to have the same beliefs?"

-- Try some experiments using the five steps in the Scientific Method on page 15.

-- On the topic of charity: "Or we can volunteer our time to help, too". (page 16)

-- The brief section on democracy and freedom (page 17) can surely be a springboard to more in-depth study of these two ideas.

-- "Be the best you can be" (page 18) is truly a Humanistic value. Discuss this with your "kids".

-- On honesty (page 20): "What have you done that makes people trust you?"

-- "What do you do to help our world and the living things in the world? What else can you do?" (page 21)

-- "Think of your best friends. What do they do that makes you know they're your friends?" (page 23)

-- Being sensitive to others, having "a happy attitude", working out disagreements without fighting, thinking of others, apologizing, and forgiving - all are other topics discussed that relate to a Humanistic life stance.  

-- What to do when people tease you, tattletales and good citizens, how jealousy hurts us, sharing, keeping things neat, and being on time are also important "kid" issues.  So is "Helping and working together." Near the end of the book, this question is raised: "What has someone done to help you? How did it make you feel?" Then turn back to the discussion of the Golden Rule....

To sum up: These are not abstract questions about Humanism. They are Humanism in practice. This is Humanism for kids. This is Humanism for all of us.

Feedback. Please let us know how this went... and please suggest any additional ideas for teaching the concepts in the Family of Humanist book.  I would be most grateful if you would send them to me at - rbhaerman@americanhumanist.org.    Many thanks in advance.    

Bob Bhaerman, Coordinator, Kochhar Humanist Education Center,

American Humanist Association