For some reason, academic preparation for kindergarten readiness seems to grab the spotlight and dominate the podium. There are other aspects, such as physical development and social and emotional growth too. Some aspects just don’t seem to get any air time at all. One of these is values.
Throughout the Olympics, there have been many news clips where athletes state that they have worked hard and overcome struggles to do their best. Another value is that of gratitude. The athletes have thanked families, coaches, teammates and communities for their support and help. The Olympic Games themselves are based on values.
Children younger than school age are not too young to learn values, but they are not easy to teach. Helping kids learn academics seems easier by comparison. Some basic values for kids are to be thankful, to share, to tell the truth, to use words, and to be kind. Every day will have moments when it’s appropriate to support your child to learn values. What are your family’s values and what are our scores as values teachers and coaches for out kids?