Children learn about strong character when parents and other adults in their daily lives

· set a good example through their own behavior and actions,

· set and communicate high standards and clear expectations,

· coach them on how to be responsible and kind, and

· use literature to reinforce values of strong character.

Set a Good Example

We are always teaching our children something by our words and our actions.

They learn from seeing. They learn from hearing and from overhearing. They learn from us, from each other, from other adults in community and by themselves.

Children share values of their parents about most important things in life. Our priorities and principles and our examples of good behavior can teach our children to take high road when other roads look tempting.

Remember that children do not learn values that make up strong character simply by being told about them. They learn by seeing people around them act on and uphold those values in their daily lives.

Show your child that you care about him and that you are dependable.

Children who feel loved are more likely to be confident. Your child must believe that, no matter what, someone will look out for him. Give your baby or toddler plenty of attention, encouragement, hugs and lap time.

Set a good example.

Children imitate whatthey see others do and what they hear others say. When you exercise and eat nourishing food, your child is more likely to do so as well. When you treat others with respect, your child probably will, too.

If you share things with others, your child also will learn to be thoughtful of others' feelings.

Provide opportunities for repetition. It takes practice for a child to crawl, pronounce new words or drink from a cup.

Your child doesn't get bored when she repeats things. Instead, by repeating things until she learns them, your child builds confidence she needs to try new things.