Moral values in children

Values education is the process of teaching our children to become responsible citizens with concern and respect for others including the  environment.

With the kind of environment and influence that our children are exposed to everyday, it seems that teaching them right values is becoming a tall order specially for teachers and their parents.  It is evident that these youth need support in developing better values and morals.

Guiding children should really start inside our homes. However, there will be many instances where people who are most involved in a child’s  life, may not know or lack the knowledge on how to help these kids.

Families are crucial partners in promoting positive social skills. Parents and families have the most direct and lasting impact on children’s development of social competence. When parents are involved, students achieve more, exhibit positive behavior and feel more comfortable in new settings.

Some of the most important components  in teaching values education include:

Self-discipline: It includes self-control and at times self-deprivation and sense of responsibility. Students today are taught to develop good study habits through accomplishing assignments, projects and dated school activities.

 Respect: Respect for others, other people’s beliefs, culture, godly deeds, elders and parents, school officials, those in authority, the law, human rights, animal rights, God’s creation, respect for freedom.

Concern for others: To be sensitive to the feelings of others and to feel what they feel. Concern is an act of love.

Faith: This is the foundation of our beliefs and existence, whether it be Catholic, or Christian or Muslim or any other religion. It is the rock that makes people complete as a human being.

To be successful in teaching moral and social values and to be considered globally competent, we should demonstrate appreciation, patience, respect and a humane perspective to help children understand  themselves.