10 Tips to Raise Children with Character

1. Although it can be difficult when there are so many demands on your time, devote time to being a parent. Parenting and developing your child's character should be a top priority.

2. Consider how you can incorporate your child into your daily life so that they are aware that they are a priority.

3. People in general, but children specifically, model themselves after people they admire. Set yourself up as someone your child can admire and make sure that your actions are desirable for them to duplicate.

4. Monitor the information that your child absorbs through media, books and other examples that may be set for them, such as grandparents and teachers.

5. Children cannot determine right from wrong unless the language you use is specifically filtered to emphasize the difference.

6. Punishment is necessary. Use reasonable punishment to show your children that they will lose privileges for ignoring boundaries. For example, a child who stays out past curfew may not be allowed to go out for a week.

7. Listen to what your child is saying. This lets you know what is going on inside their head and convinces them that they are worth your time because you love them.

8. Help your child in their school life. School is a large factor in developing a child's moral character. Being aware of what occurs during their day in school can help you to encourage or discourage certain aspects of that environment.

9. Eating dinner as a family can give you the opportunity to discuss concerns and moral lessons that arise through the years.

10. Create an environment where a child can develop a good character. Such an environment will improve your own character as well.