Dec 2012
It is never too early to teach your child proper values and help them build character. While some parents may question about whether their children are able to understand, memorize and perform what they are taught to do, character education expert points out that it is never too young for character education as the ability of young children should never be underestimated and lists out ten tips of character education suitable for children as young as three years old.
To greet people
Parents can demonstrate how to greet people properly by looking them in the eye and address them politely, and encourage the children to do so.
To have manners
Children should learn to say “please” and “thank you” when they ask for something or receive help from others. To help them build the habit, parents should require their children to say “please” and “thank you” before giving the things they want.
To tidy up
Even three-year-olds can manage to complete simple tasks such as tidying up. Parents can start by asking their children to clean up after playing and using things without asking for help. If the children refuse to do so, parents may reduce their play time unless they are willing to tidy up.
To be responsible
Let the child understand that it is his/her responsibility to pack and carry his/her school bags and to put on his/her own shoes. Parents should give them opportunities to experience. Even if they fail to do it properly, they can learn from trial and error.
To have perseverance
To enhance the Adversity Quotient (AQ) of their children, parents are asked to stop solving problems for their kids right away but encourage their children to keep trying even though they think it is difficult. Praise the children for their effort – it will motivate them to try even harder.
To help and care for others
Compassion for others is one very important element that will contribute not only to oneself and others, but the whole society. Teach children from a young age to observe other people’s needs and offer help whenever possible. The children will soon understand the happiness of helping others, even by just moving a chair or passing a piece of tissue paper.
To be patient
Waiting is difficult, but children have to learn to be patient. Parents can start from home education, for example, by teaching their children that they have to wait for their turn when they want to play toys.
To listen and to follow
Children should learn to listen and follow rules. The rules should be simple yet straightforward and parents should explain them to their children clearly.
To be independent
Offer your children opportunities and sufficient time to do things by themselves. They have the ability to be independent, such as going to the toilet and washing their hands.
To share with others
Sharing is one of the most important elements in character education. A shared happiness, no matter feelings or things, is a double happiness.
Expert stated that to instill confidence, to give responsibility, to encourage perseverance, to teach manners and to develop compassion equip children with values and character education and all of the above should be started at a young age. do not underestimate your child. There is a lot he/she can do, even before going to kindergarten. The mot effective way to train a child is to be your child's role model.
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