Character Education Principles
Character development is the foundation of successful social interaction. The sooner character values are learned, the more natural they become to children. Developing character is often seen as the responsibility of parents. However, this task can also be shared by schools and the whole community.
Character education is the deliberate effort to develop values that are good for the individual and good for society. Dr. Thomas Lickona (1991) defined these values as good because they:
- Affirm our human dignity
- Serve the common good
- Promote the well-being and happiness of the individual
- Define our rights and obligations
- Answer the question: “Would you want to be treated this way?”
- Answer the question: “Would you want everyone to act this way in a similar situation?”
The Kimochis Early Childhood and Elementary curriculums integrate five character values or principles into the lessons. These core values reflect the Kimochis Way, and children learn tools and strategies that help them live these values and principles daily.
Be Respectful
- Use considerate voice, face, and words
- Listen to others and be open-minded
- Demonstrate tolerance and acceptance of differences
- Show consideration for others’ feelings
- Cooperate with others
Be Responsible
- Speak up for self and others
- Know the difference between right and wrong
- Admit and own mistakes
- Be in control of words and actions
- Align words and actions
- Choose to be truthful
Be Resilient
- Bounce back from disappointments and challenges
- Work through difficult emotions
- Turn adversity into something positive
Be Compassionate and Kind
- Have empathy and concern for others
- Look for moments to be kind to self and others
- Be open-minded
- Forgive others
- Express gratitude
Be Brave
- Do the right thing, even if it is unpopular or inconvenient
- Try new things
- Persevere with difficult tasks and actions
