Character development seems to be a complex mix of temperament, cultural expectations and nurture, but a parent’s role is significant. In this blog, we explore simple ideas for raising children to have integrity.
How to Teach Children Integrity & Good Character
- Lead by example by acting with integrity. Children might not always understand the complexities of adult life, but they have a sweet, simple understanding of right and wrong. This inner compass makes them keenly aware of hypocrisy. The best way to teach your child character is to live a life of integrity yourself as much as possible. Be honest. Avoid gossip. Work hard and look for the good in others. Treat those around you with respect and kindness. When you mess up, admit it and try again. More than anything else you do, your example will remain with your child throughout their life.
- Be specific with your reasoning. You ask your child to be patient, kind, or polite and get nothing but a mystified stare in response. What’s going on here? Remember, children are concrete thinkers. Abstract words describing character traits are ambiguous and confusing to young children. Instead, tell your child specifically how to behave in a given situation. For example, when your child has a difficult homework assignment, say, “This is really tough but we’re going to keep working. You can look in this book for answers or ask me for help. You’re being persistent.” Be sure to comment when your child gets it right: “You said thank you when Abbey shared her toy. You were polite. Excellent work!”
- Offer examples of positive moral behaviors. Use real-life examples, books, and movies to help children develop character. Point out positive behaviors and give an explanation to your child. For example, if you see a young person offer a seat to an older person, explain, “It’s kind and polite to offer a chair to someone who needs it.” Children’s literature provides rich opportunities to teach character. Thoughtfully-chosen movies can spark conversation about positive—and sometimes negative—character traits.
- Understand that outside influences will affect character development. During the preschool years, your child’s social circle remains small and your influence is large. As children enter the elementary and middle school years, they begin to focus more on peer relations. For better or worse, the influence of peers and media increases. Set logical and safe boundaries about media for your child. Get to know your child’s friends. Encourage him/her to choose friends who are honest, kind, and uplifting. It’s okay to say “We are friendly to everyone, but we choose our best friends carefully.”
In spite of your best efforts, you might wonder if your child is learning anything about character. Relax. The adult world is a big, overwhelming place with lots of complicated social rules and traditions. Children need time and experience to develop character. They will make mistakes but you should view those mistakes as opportunities to learn. Talk gently with your child about a mistaken choice, but don’t let them off the hook. Instead, help your child make amends or fix the problem. If your child has been dishonest, use encouraging statement, such as, “Taking the candy from the store was dishonest, but you can fix this. Let’s go back to the store and pay for it. I will help you.” Follow up by discussing what to do next time. Small teachable moments will pay off over time as your child becomes an adult with integrity