Building Character; A Lesson From Six Children

Chores and later jobs outside the home taught responsibility and money management. They raked leaves and shoveled snow for people in the neighborhood; delivered newspapers as they got older, worked in restaurants, nursing homes, babysat other families.

My oldest son had these reflections: "Parental praise has had a lasting impact. I don't mean general statements like 'good job' or 'I'm proud of you.' Those mattered, of course, but I'm talking about thoughtful praise; hearing an observation about me, coupled with specific examples that showed how closely my parent was paying attention to who I was. Another kind of real praise was expressions of deep pride and delight over who I was as a person."

My youngest had this to say: "I remember being reprimanded when I didn't do something kind for a stranger and was taught a lesson; it was explained to me why it wasn't right to be mean or to steal something, etc. so I wouldn't do it again."

Of great significance was the love that surrounded the children. They knew they were loved, respected, treated with kindness and empathy. They learned to treat others the same.

These are the things that build character, coming straight from the children's mouths.

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Building Character; A Lesson From Six Children

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