Responsibility – such an important word, and probably one of the most important family values we can teach our children because of the impact it has on each family member’s individual happiness as well as how we relate to each other. There are three parts to responsibility:

  • Being responsible for ourselves
  • Being responsible for our part in the family unit
  • Being responsible for our choices, our behavior ad our happiness

Teaching our children responsibility is really easy once you understand a few basic guidelines. It’s not about forcing kids to do things, its about giving them choices and helping them understand that they are ultimately responsible for making their own choices. The Five Keys to Teaching Responsibility are:
Praise, praise, praise their efforts whether they are successful or not. The most effective praise is not direct, but indirect compliments delivered within earshot of your child. Share the success with Dad as he arrives home or with Grandma on the phone.
Don’t expect perfection and let them know in advance not to expect success the first couple of times. Show excitement with regard to their efforts and let them know how proud you are that they are learning something new and growing up.
Make sure that the tasks are age-appropriate, and that the child has the skills, the judgement, and the knowledge to take on a particular responsibility.
Provide clear choices, and give them the freedom to choose. Responsibility can be rewarded with stickers, treats, or other privileges. If you do a good job selecting and presenting choices for your children the consequences will do the work for you.
Share openly with your children your own mistakes and how they affect your life. When children see their parents admit to their own mistakes, assume responsibility and accept the consequences, they become more responsible for their own behavior.
Ultimately, it is our responsibility to make good choices, to be honest, kind, loving, cheerful, and respectful… to be decent human beings, and to make the world a better place.