The Littlest World Changers

When we give our first aid/CPR classes to students, we sometimes ask each other what the cutoff age should be. Is there an age that is “too young”? We can teach them all the skills and show them each step, but when it comes down to it, will they remember what to do, let alone be strong enough to perform chest compressions when the need arises? For the littlest students, the truth is, probably not… but if we start building the foundation now and repeat it over the years, something will stick in those little, growing minds. Then, if and when the time comes, they will have it in their bodies and know what to do.

This month we did just that. We taught the course to 6- to 10-year-olds. As we went through the information, they repeated the steps back to us. They practiced each skill. They got a bit distracted but came right back around. We told them, “Maybe you aren’t strong enough to give chest compressions YET, but you can learn and remember the steps and then tell an adult how to do it”. And you know what? I believe they will.

During the class, the daughter of the director arrived and wanted to learn too. She’s 3 years old. One of the students immediately showed her each step, starting with scene safety. Then how to check responsiveness in an infant. Then how to check the airway. Next, how to give compressions and lastly, how to give breaths. And this sweet little one followed every step.

Our vision for this ministry isn’t just to teach one person and hope their lives improve. Our vision is to teach one person (no matter the age) and encourage them to take what they learn home to their families. Then the family can share with other families. And before you know it, the whole community is empowered, and ultimately we’re not needed. We can’t be everywhere at once. And we’re not meant to be. But one life changed can change the world around them. No matter how little they are.

In the Gospels, Jesus says just that. Let the children come. They are the future. They are the world changers…Love them. Teach them. Invest in them. And watch them fly.

But Jesus called them to him, saying,

“Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them,

for to such belongs the kingdom of God."

Luke 18:16