How to Raise Good Children: 10 Strategies to Build Character

The word "Character" means "the mental and

 moral qualities distinctive to an individual". 

Unfortunately in our society character is related to the feeling of love between the opposite gender.

 Infact character has a vast meaning nd is built over time. 

The most important time of character building is childhood and the persons who play the most of the role in over all process of character building are parents and teachers. 
Now what character actually is?
character applies to the aggregate of moral qualities by which a person is judged apart from intelligence, competence, or special talents. personality applies to an aggregate of qualities that distinguish one as a person.

Raising children with good character is a goal that every parent strives for. In today's rapidly changing world, where moral values seem to be on the decline, it is essential for parents to be intentional in their efforts to instill strong moral values in their children. This article presents 10 strategies for parents to build character in their children, drawing insights from multiple reputable sources.

1. Be a Role Model

Children learn by observing their parents and imitating their behavior. Therefore, it is crucial for parents to model appropriate and ethical behavior. Whether it's honesty, compassion, or fairness, parents must embody the values they want to instill in their children. By consistently demonstrating these qualities in their everyday actions and choices, parents can effectively transmit their values to their children. As Dr. Michele Borba, a renowned parenting expert, emphasizes, empathy is the first step towards building character. When children feel deeply understood and cared for by their parents, they become more receptive to learning about love and character.

2. Encourage Empathy and Perspective Taking

Empathy is a fundamental aspect of good character. Parents can foster empathy in their children by helping them understand and appreciate the experiences and feelings of others. Encouraging children to imagine themselves in someone else's shoes promotes empathy and perspective taking. By cultivating empathy, children develop a greater sense of compassion and understanding towards others.

3. Teach Gratitude and Appreciation

Expressing gratitude and appreciation is an essential component of good character. Parents should teach their children to say thank you when someone helps them and to recognize and acknowledge acts of kindness. By instilling the value of gratitude, parents can help their children develop a positive and appreciative mindset.

4. Help Children Understand Consequences

Understanding the consequences of their actions is crucial for children's moral development. Parents should help their children comprehend the impact of their behavior and the importance of taking responsibility for their actions. By implementing fair and dignified consequences, parents can teach children valuable lessons about accountability and the importance of making amends when they make mistakes.

5. Support Volunteerism

Encouraging children to engage in community service and volunteer work is an excellent way to instill values of compassion and altruism. Participating in acts of service not only benefits others but also helps children develop a sense of fulfillment and a deeper understanding of the needs of those around them.

6. Emphasize Good Sportsmanship

Sports provide an opportunity for children to learn valuable lessons about teamwork, effort, and good sportsmanship. Parents should emphasize the importance of fair play, positive communication, and respect for opponents. By recognizing and highlighting instances of good sportsmanship, parents can reinforce the values of integrity and fairness in their children.

7. Share Character-Rich Stories

Stories have long been used to teach moral lessons, and parents can utilize this powerful tool to instill character values in their children. By sharing stories from literature and real-life experiences, parents can convey important values and ethics. Discussing stories from various sources, such as books, movies, and the media, allows parents to reinforce their values and engage their children in meaningful conversations about right and wrong.

8. Provide Opportunities to Practice Character

Children need hands-on experience to truly understand and internalize the meaning of character. Parents should create opportunities for their children to make ethical decisions and witness the positive impact of their actions. Whether it's choosing between friends or engaging in social and community action, these experiences help children practice and develop their character.

9. Monitor Language and Online Behavior

Language and online behavior play a significant role in shaping a child's character. Parents should ensure that their children use appropriate language and engage in positive online interactions. By setting boundaries and modeling respectful behavior in both offline and online environments, parents can guide their children towards responsible and ethical digital citizenship.

10. Encourage Dedication and Practice

Children need to understand that success and personal growth require dedication and practice. Parents should help their children recognize the value of perseverance and the importance of effort in achieving their goals. By teaching children the significance of hard work and the rewards that come from it, parents can instill a strong work ethic and a sense of appreciation for fairness and achievement.

Conclusion

Building good character in children is a shared responsibility between parents, schools, and communities. By implementing these strategies, parents can play a significant role in shaping their children's moral development. Being a positive role model, fostering empathy, teaching gratitude, and providing opportunities for practice are just a few ways parents can instill good character in their children. With consistent effort and dedication, parents can raise children who embody the values of integrity, compassion, and responsibility, ensuring a brighter future for the next generation.