By
Bill Cirone, Santa Barbara County Superintendent of Schools
It’s
very clear that what sets America apart from other civilizations is our value
system. Our respect for life, liberty, democracy, and social equality, and our
tolerance for different religious views and lifestyles — these are all bedrock
principles on which this country was founded.
These
values are also the foundation of healthy communities, respectful workplaces,
and safe schools, so they must be passed on to each new generation.
A
child’s sense of morality and social conscience begins at home, and parents can
nurture it. They can discuss with their children values such as the importance
of each person’s life, respect for others’ property, compassion for the less
fortunate, tolerance for people who are different, and respect for rules and
laws.
It
is important to emphasize courtesy, honesty, and cooperation in everyday life.
Explain to children that money isn’t everything, and that helping others brings
personal satisfaction in many ways.
Learn
to disagree by using words. If a local school offers adults an opportunity to
take part in a conflict management program, sign up. You can learn techniques
and approaches that will work well with children and will help you pass along
those models at home and in the workplace. The most important skill is learning
how to turn feelings of anger and frustration into positive action
When
necessary, say no. Intervene when needed. It is difficult for parents to
acknowledge signs of antisocial behavior in their own children and to seek
professional guidance. But while most children develop appropriate social
skills as they mature, others may begin showing antisocial patterns as early as
the fourth grade. Some of these trouble signs include excessive use of
intimidation and force to get their own way, frequent and skillful lying, and
routine reliance on cheating or stealing.
Children
who exhibit these behaviors may need some professional help to redirect their
energies and anxieties. Parents are in the best position to sense when help is
needed, and early intervention can make a profound difference.
There
are no secret ingredients to making a healthy character or a good citizen or a
responsible employee. Parents, educators and all community members need to
teach, nurture, and model these bedrock principles on which our nation was
founded.
