Keys to Character

JANUARY—RESPONSIBILITY

Being dependable in carrying out obligations and duties.

FEBRUARY—COMPASSION

Feeling for another person’s sorrow or hardship.

MARCH—TOLERANCE

Recognizing and respecting differences, values and beliefs of other people.

APRIL—CITIZENSHIP

Carrying out the duties and responsibilities to one’s country.

MAY—PATRIOTISM

Good citizenship, displaying high regard for laws, government and the heritage of

one’s country.

AUGUST—RESPECT

Showing high regard for authority, other people, self, property and country.

SEPTEMBER—HONESTY

Being truthful, trustworthy and sincere.

OCTOBER—SELF-CONTROL

Having discipline over one’s behavior or actions.

NOVEMBER—CO-OPERATION

Working with others to accomplish a common purpose.

DECEMBER—KINDNESS

Being helpful, thoughtful, caring, compassionate and considerate.

Revised 12-03

 

Twenty-two Strategies for Parents

Parents, Kids & Character, Dr. Helen R. Legette

Adapted for Polk County School Board

1. Model good character at home.

2. Be clear about your values and beliefs. Tell your children where you stand on important issues.

3. Show respect for your spouse, your children and other family members.

4. Model and teach your children good manners. Insist that all family members use good manners at home.

5. Have family meals together without television as often as possible.

6. Plan as many family activities as possible. Involve your children in the planning.

7. Share devotional time as a family.

8. Model appropriate behavior regarding alcohol and drugs. Avoid providing your children access to alcohol or drugs.

9. Plan family service projects or civic activities.

10. Read to your children and keep good literature in the home.

11. Teach your children to manage and save their spending money or allowance.

12. Discuss holidays and their meanings. Have family celebrations and establish family traditions.

13. Capitalize on the “teachable moment”. Use situations to spark family discussions on important issues.

14. Assign home responsibilities/chores to all family members.

15. Set clear expectations for your children and hold them accountable for their behaviors.

16. Keep your children busy with positive activities.

17. Learn to say no and consistently follow through.

18. Know where your children are, what they are doing and with whom.

19. Don’t cover for your children or make excuses for their inappropriate behavior.

20. Monitor your children’s TV shows, videos, DVDs, movies and music.

21. Remember, YOU are the adult!

22. Support your child’s teacher and other school staff in teaching character traits to your children. (PCSB)