Bringing the Virtues Home

So, school is in full swing, the virtues lessons have started. Observation time and conferences are coming up. One of the things we hear a lot is that the children are not doing the same things at home that they are doing at school. Specifically, the very independent young people we see daily are becoming helpless as soon as they reach home! So how can we bridge the gap and make sure the independent, orderly, respectful children we see daily are making the same great choices at home?

Well, to some degree we expect a different demeanor at home. It's a space to be relaxed. But that doesn't mean that all these great virtues goes out the window. The first step in bridging the gap is to have some reasonable expectations. Your children should be respectful most of the time. They can be expected to know how to clean up their own areas, and keep them tidy. We expect helpful attitudes most of the time. Notice the "most of the time". I'm sure you have days where you just don't want to do all the things expected of you. Kids are the same. So really, it's about respecting that your child is a person first and foremost.

Make sure you are using the language of the virtues. When children are rude, be firm " That was not respectful, I don't like being spoken to that way". Expect apologies, and give them in return when you make mistakes.

Have time scheduled for cleaning, chores, and other responsibilities. And remember, we are here to help. If you aren't sure what is age appropriate, please ask!