How Kids Are Learning Peace Before the World Teaches Fear with Jill McManigal

About this episode

In this episode of Shaping Freedom, Lisane Basquiat is joined by Jill McManigal, co-founder of Kids for Peace, for a heartfelt conversation about kindness, emotional responsibility, and what becomes possible when we teach peace early enough to shape future generations.

Together, they explore how children naturally lead with compassion when given the opportunity, and why creating spaces rooted in empathy, curiosity, and connection can change the way young people see themselves and the world around them. Jill shares the story of how Kids for Peace began in her backyard after 9/11 and grew into a global movement reaching millions of children through acts of kindness, leadership, and community action.

The conversation also touches on parenting, gratitude, joy, and the ripple effect that even small acts of kindness can have within families, schools, and communities. They discuss why joy is something we must actively practice, and how helping children stay connected to their humanity may be one of the most important forms of peacebuilding we have.

This episode is about more than kindness. It’s about raising children who believe in themselves, care for others, and understand the power they have to shape a better world.

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