In a column published on 9/11 in Law.com, Rebecca Palmer, the firm’s managing partner, offers ways for parents to discuss 9/11 with their children and volunteer in the community. Because Sept. 11, 2001, is not within living memory of so many young people today, you can share your own recollections of that day with your children, watch documentaries, or collectively read books about the event.

“Beyond personal stories, take the time to discuss the broader implications of 9/11,” Palmer said. “Explain how the world changed after that day—how security measures were heightened, how travel became more restricted, and how the event reshaped global relationships. Discussing these changes can help your children understand why certain aspects of their everyday lives are the way they are.”

Palmer advises discussing with your children the root causes of extremism, and how this may have given rise to the 9/11 terror attacks. Couch these discussions around tolerance and a push for global peace. This will help your children develop more of an understanding of the importance of diversity, respect for different cultures, and standing up against prejudice and violence. From there, you can get them more involved in helping their community.

“The most powerful way to honor the legacy of 9/11 is by modeling the shared spirit that emerged in the aftermath,” Palmer writes. “Encourage your family to engage in acts of kindness and community service. … Use the anniversary of 9/11 as a day of service, showing your children that out of tragedy can come compassion and a commitment to improving the world.”

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