|

What Do You Stand For?

by Carleton Kendrick

What does your family stand for? I don't mean whether you vote Republican or Democrat. I'm asking about what character traits define who your family is. What virtues do you embrace? What principles guide your behavior? Do your children know -- and more importantly see in action -- what you feel about integrity, compassion, tolerance, equality, and forgiveness? When asked to describe your family, would your children mention proudly that you stood for honesty, courage, and faith? Your children need to know the reasons behind what you stand for. Your family of origin's values? Life-changing events in your past? Your religious beliefs? They also need to know what you won't stand for and why, like racism and bigotry.

Before you engage your children in a discussion of what your family stands for, you might ask them what they think are your family's most important beliefs and values. How have they come to those conclusions? What have they observed in your actions and in what ways have they lived their lives to prove what you all stand for? Their answers will give you a child-centered focus to begin your talk.

Simply listing the character traits of your family -- "We stand for honesty, empathy, and tolerance" -- isn't enough. Here are some examples of what your family might stand for, and some questions that will deepen your discussion.

Empathy

  • What do you think this Native American proverb means: "You can't understand another person until you walk a few miles in their moccasins"?
  • What's the difference between pity and empathy? Give family members an opportunity to think about another person's feelings. For example, what do they think Grandma is feeling now that she has had to move into a nursing home? What is she most worried about? What would make her most happy? Or, have them consider how volunteering at a food pantry teaches empathy.

    • Loyalty

  • Can you strongly disagree about something with your parents or your friends and still be loyal to them?
  • Would it be disloyal to tell a friend's parents that she has a problem with stealing? Should a loyal friend ever say anything that could get his friend in trouble?
  • Do you have to obey everything your coach tells you to do in order to be a loyal team member?

    • Courage

  • Does having courage mean that you'll try anything?
  • What's the best example of courage that you've personally seen, heard, and read about?
  • When have you had to show the most courage?

    • Read Carleton Kendrick's bio.

    More on: Values and Responsibilities

    |

    you might also like:

    from our community:


    what’s hot

    1. Top 10 End-of-the-Year Gifts for Teachers
    2. 10 Gender-Predicting Old Wives' Tales
    3. Top 12 Fundraising Ideas
    4. VIEW ALL

    stay connected

    Sign up for our free email newsletters and receive the latest advice and information on all things parenting.

    Enter your email address to sign up or manage your account.

    Facebook icon Twitter icon Follow Us on Pinterest

    editor’s picks

    highlights

    8 Printable Thank-You Cards for Teachers
    As the end of the school year approaches, it's nice to thank your favorite educators for all their hard work. Print any of these free printable teacher appreciation cards to show your gratitude in a cute and simple way.

    Great Gift Ideas for Dad's First Father's Day
    Every dad's first Father's Day is a special one. Honor Daddy's important new role with a fun and heartfelt gift from you and your baby.

    Safest Sunscreens for Kids
    Wondering what the best sunscreens are to use on your child? Check out these natural sunscreens for kids. They're chemical-free and will keep your child safe from the sun’s harmful rays.

    11 Succulent Vegetarian Recipes for the Grill
    Barbecue season isn't just for meat-lovers! These vegetarian recipes for the grill are a healthy and delicious alternative to typical barbecue fare.