Character is a difficult concept for some kids to discuss because the vocabulary we use to talk about character is attached to ideas that are invisible rather than objects we can see. When developing new vocabulary, early readers have better luck with concrete objects. This is one reason it helps to talk about these ideas through story and actions. What heroes “do” is much easier for little ones to describe than what kind of people heroes “are.”
This is super important for a lot of reasons, but developing a positive self-image is one of them. All kids deserve to believe in themselves and value their friends. Seeing themselves and their friends in a positive light is one way we can help them develop character. What are some ways you can do this at home?
- Read books about heroic people from different backgrounds and pause to say things like “That was a brave thing to do”. This is a great list
- Watch some shows in which kids are doing great things and pause to say things like “That was a kind thing to do.” Some favorites: Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, Nella the Princess Knight, Kid President, and Molly of Denali
- Dress up as community helpers and see if your kid understands what people do to help others. If they’re not sure how to act like a firefighter, show them by pretending to be a firefighter.
- Pay attention to your community and point out the community helpers you see as you drive down the road. “Look there’s a fire station.”
- Encourage your kiddos to draw, paint, or use their blocks and toys to create representations of the heroes they admire. Ask them things like “What does this person do?” and “Why do you think they do these things?” and then “Are they a hero?”
- Snap a photo and submit it to the “A Hero is…” art contest sponsored by Future First Education and Moms Against Racism. It’s listed under the “Project of the Month” section.
