In my experience, teaching my children “Values” began with me living out my own values. Kids learn more by watching how we live than what we say, “more is caught than taught”.
Next, they needed a basic start to values that they could wrap their heads around at a young age. We began with the words Kind, Gentle, and Generous. When they made mistakes, I would ask them, “Was that Kind, Gentle, or Generous?” Those values became a filter and a way to teach them to be critical thinkers early in life without needing a long list of rules.
I also wanted them to understand who they were as individuals. I wanted to help them understand what was purpose for their lives and spend time guiding and affirming their identity. There are no perfect people, but my daughters have grown into amazing young women that know who they are, know what they believe in, and have the strength to live it out. Hopefully this helps the parents out there who are working hard to raise a values-based family as well.
Check out our “Define Your Family Workbook" in the SHOP tab if you need help getting started on this process with your own family. The downloadable PDF allows you to start right away.
Keep Coming Forward,
Jimmy Hensel
