World Listening Day: Teach Your Child to Listen to the Environment
“Making your ear attentive to wisdom and inclining your heart to understand,” is from Proverbs 2:2. On July 18, we celebrate National Listening Day, a global community event organized by the nonprofit, the World Listening Project (WLP). Use this day to teach your child how to understand the natural world through listening. Because words consume our lives, this gives her the opportunity to slow down and listen for a day so she can connect with the world.
Go for a Walk
Take your child on a walk, either in your neighborhood, a nature trail, or the beach. While you are walking, have your child really tune in to the ecological sounds around her. Pay attention to the trees blowing in the wind, the birds chirping, and the waves crashing. Have your child identify what each of the sounds are, and log in it in a journal!
Listen to Music
Music is a great way to appreciate sound from home and take time to be mindful. We recommend classical, prayer, meditation, and instrumental types of music. Really focus on the instruments and the sounds being played without words. Watch your child feel relaxed and inspired by what she hears. Pair it with a yoga or meditation session to really feel grounded.
Attend a Speaking Engagement
Attend a speaking engagement where your child will simply listen. From an artist to her favorite author, find someone engaging that she will feel connected to. This can be done remotely right from your home. She will walk away not only learning something new but understand the power of listening.
Create an Audio Postcard
After everything she heard, she’s likely feeling inspired to make her own sounds. This one might be tricky, but a fun DIY experience that will teach your child how to make her own audio art. The piece can be anything she wants it to be — from recording the sounds of nature outside or playing an instrument. Use just a cellphone or computer to record the audio. This is a beautiful way to add a personal touch to a card that your child can send to a friend, a favorite teacher, or a relative, so they can participate in World Listening Day, too.
With over 57 years of academic excellence, St. Teresa Catholic School, a top Catholic school in Titusville, provides a quality education that challenges and empowers students to develop to their full potential. Students foster qualities that are essential for lifelong learning and are equipped for future success. To learn more about why St. Teresa is the perfect fit for you and your student, contact us today.