March 15, 2006

Teaching children to be responsible

It is a shared goal that children grow up to be responsible adults. It’s what we all want—parents, business leaders, and educators alike. It’s also a goal that children should feel, think, and act with respect for others and for themselves. These are acquired skills and adults can help.

According to the publication “It Starts on the Frontline,” learning to be responsible includes the following actions:

• showing respect and compassion for others
• practicing honesty
• showing courage by standing up for what is believed
• developing self-control out of consideration for others
• maintaining self-respect.

It’s always a good idea to watch for the chance to teach children responsible behavior through everyday situations. All adults should be sure to share universal values with them. Show compassion and concern about what others are suffering. Be aware that children copy what they see. Adults are always a role model for children, whether they try to be or not, when they are displaying model behavior and when they are not.

Read stories with children or grandchildren that teach lessons. The Little Engine That Could is a good example. Also, talk about complicated decisions. Help children understand how the choices they make can affect others.

Parents should talk with parents of their children’s friends and agree on acceptable behavior for play and at parties. Adults should take turns supervising to show children that all the parents agree on the standards of behavior.

Always make clear to children that prejudice is wrong and that all of us are equal, no matter what our color, gender, ethnicity, or background. Show an interest in learning about others—neighbors and relatives, and also from books about our own culture and other civilizations.

Most of all, listen carefully when children want to tell you things they have discovered about history, geography, religions, art, and ways of life. Reinforce all their good instincts and actions. Together, we can all help nurture a community of responsible adults.