Helping Children Build Character, from Toddlers to Teens

No doubt you’ve heard people praise someone for being a “person of character.” But what does that mean to you? And how does someone become a person of character?   Todd Otis, this week’s Mom Enough guest, has pondered these questions for a long time, as a state legislator, father and grandfather, and as a dedicated early childhood advocate for more than twenty years. Serving now on the board of the Minnesota Character Council, Todd joins Marti & Erin for a thoughtful conversation about what parents can do to help children of any age become trustworthy, empathic, respectful, honest, self-aware – embracing all the qualities that define character. Todd emphasizes that parents matter most, starting early to focus on character, both through the example they set and the direct lessons they teach. He also urges parents to seek out “Schools of Character” – or speak to the principal of their child’s school to encourage the school to go through the process of becoming a school of character. With both schools and parents choosing to focus on character-building, what a change we could make in our communities! Don’t miss this important conversation.   WHAT STEPS CAN YOU TAKE TO SUPPORT CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT IN YOUR CHILDREN? Listen to this week’s podcast and check out the “Eleven Principles of Behavior” handout, provided by the Minnesota Character Council (link provided at momenough.com). In what ways are you teaching your children these important principles, both by example and through specific teaching and discussion? What more could you do to promote character development in your children?   WANT TO LEARN MORE? ❉ THE 11 PRINCIPLES OF CHARACTER. Check out this helpful resources to learn about the 11 Principles Framework that can serve as a guide to creating a culture of character in schools.   ❉ CHARACTER.ORG. Collaborating with schools, organizations, communities, and families, Character.org supports character development for people of all ages. Learn how your child's school could become a National School of Character and get resources to help you empower your children to be people of character.