Teach it (i.e., give direct moral instruction). There are a number of component skills that are a part of being an honest person. Kids need to know how to give an honest opinion. They can also benefit from learning how to be diplomatic about speaking honestly. Honest people also need to know how to set limits on what they are …
Fostering Character Development in Teens: Honesty, pt 1
def. (noun) sincere, frank, genuine, truthful In addition to learning how to behave appropriately in different social situations, establish a foundation for future employment, and develop meaningful close relationships, teens also need to create a foundation of universal moral principles to guide decision making throughout their lives. Honesty is one of these fundamental values. Honest people are sincere, frank, genuine, …
Teen Pregnancy Rates, Sexual Decision Making and Intimate Relationships
I’ve been interviewed recently about changes in teen pregnancy rates across the last decade. In a recent survey by the Centers for Disease Control, the rate of teenage pregnancies has declined by 40% from what they were in 1995. This is one of the many indications of how well teenagers are doing these days. * You’d think that with all …
Helping Your Middle School Kid Grieve When A Teacher Dies
Jim Benton, a teacher at Grassland Middle School in Franklin, Tennessee, died unexpectedly of an undiagnosed medical condition while on a field trip with some of his students. Here are a couple of things to consider in helping your kid understand and deal with death when it comes to a teacher they and their friends knew in a setting like …
Fostering Character Development in Teens: Generosity (cont.)
Teach it. Generosity needs to be taught. There are a number of skills that lead to generosity. Manners are an important form of generosity. Good manners are about being considerate, patient, tolerant and generous. Opening doors for others, giving up your seat to someone older or physically challenged, waiting for everyone to be served before beginning to eat and politeness …
Fostering Character Development in Teens: Generosity
def. (noun) Liberal in giving and sharing Generosity is about giving when you don’t have to; of yourself and of your possessions. It is sharing; giving some of what you have to those who are without, in need or wanting. It can mean giving money for the poor but it can also mean offering candy to your brother or sister. …
Fostering Character Development in Teens: Courage, pt 2
Notice it. What you characterize as courageous is important. Who you consider to be heroic is important. Again, while heroism is the easiest to spot it is the least relevant to helping your kid be courageous in their everyday life. Heroism is rare by definition. Courage is all around you. It is on the news. It is in your house. …
Fostering Character Development in Teens: Courage, part 1
def: (noun) continues to pursue what is right regardless of threat, difficulty, danger, or pain Courage is one of the more dramatic Character-istics. One form, heroism, is immediately recognized by others. These are the instances of rescue and protection and sacrifice that rise above the normal events of our lives. While heroism is admirable, it is not achievable by most …
Fostering Character Development in Teens: Compassion, pt 2
Expect it. It is important to let your kid know that you expect them to be compassionate in word and deed. When you notice a situation that calls for compassion, give your kid a nudge. Help them see how they could show compassion. When you can anticipate the need for compassion, let your kid know what you will be expecting …
Fostering Character Development in Teens: Compassion, pt 1
def. (noun) feeling deep sympathy and concern for the welfare of others Compassion is a Character-istic valued by every major religion and most spiritual and philosophical traditions. It represents the impulse to tend to others when they are hurting and support them in times of difficulty. Compassion is a crucial component of family functioning, friendships and intimate relationships. With caring …