Parents Play An Important Role in Building Children’s Character
If parents are committed to developing their child’s good character, they’ll get results. It takes dedication and constant watchfulness to raise a child with good morals. But it’s worth it. Your child will grow up with a strong moral compass that will serve him well in school and in life.
To build your child’s character:
• Keep a strong focus on good morals in daily activities. Incorporate the ideals of honesty and respect into dinner and car conversations with your child.
• Explain to your child why you make certain decisions. Talk about the values—such as tolerance and generosity—that guide your decisions.
• Watch TV with your child. When a character does something wrong, ask why it’s wrong. When the character makes a good moral decision—such as returning something lost—discuss why that’s the right thing to do.
• Catch your child showing good character. Tell him you-re proud of him for telling the truth or working hard to finish a task.
• Evaluate how your efforts are working. If you need help, turn to friends, family, and books about character and morals.
Source: M. Berkowitz, “Character Must Matter to Parents First,” Topeka: City of Character, The Topeka Capital-Journal, http://find-articles.com/p/articles/mi_qn417/is_20010812/ai_n11768486/.