Raising children with good character

I believe, an important factor in raising a well-rounded child is that at some early point in his life you need to empower him to choose, even if he should fail. Failure is the seed for growth and success.

At about twelve months of age, infants begin to think about choices. At two years of age, they start making behavioral choices, which are brand-marked as the ‘terrible twos’. Four-year-olds are beginning to develop a good sense of reasoning and can use their negotiation skills to solve problems. At five children are becoming more conscious of decision making, and you will need to give him increased opportunities so he can demonstrate his ability to choose.

Do not get me wrong, you should always set parameters, but you should give him as much autonomy as possible. Wisdom comes from experience, and experience comes from making bad choices.

To make certain he makes better choices, bonding with him plays an extremely important factor in his upbringing. He will emulate you and your behavior – even emulate your choices.

To set a good example, read to him, as often as you can, multiple books a day, whenever possible. Reading is more important than watching TV. If you can buy it, or have it, a big armchair where both of you will snuggly fit in is ideal.  Through reading books with him, you will widen his dimension by letting him wonder into and understand different worlds, stimulating his imagination and strengthening his social, emotional, and character development.

Reading builds good character and children with good character will make better choices.

Follow my hashtag #ReadToKids on social media.

It is important for kids to see themselves in the books they read.