Teach Responsibility

Starting from a very young age, it's important to teach kids responsibility.  Responsibility for themselves, their actions, and also setting reasonable expectations for them to be participating members of the family and community.  When we establish household guidelines, encourage kids to join in chores and pick up after themselves, and allow them to make decisions, we inspire independence and accountability.

Having kids participate in household duties, discussions and self-care demonstrates our trust in them and helps to build confidence.  As kids mature we want to increase responsibilities and ensure that everyone is assigned jobs regardless of age or ability.  One of my favorite lessons learned when working with special needs kids and their families, was sitting at an IEP meeting with a mom who was lamenting the lack of independence with her son due not to his disability, but to the family doing for him what he could have easily done for himself.  Without reasonable expectations and responsibilities kids can become dependent, self-centered or unable to problem solve. 

Taking on responsibility and accomplishing something has a powerful impact on a child's development.  Taking care of a pet, looking after a sibling or keeping track of their own homework assignments teaches kids responsibility for both themselves and others.  Giving kids the opportunity to make money decisions, encouraging them to finish what they start, and letting them deal with the consequences of their actions, all boosts ownership and maturity.

We are their guides, teachers and coaches, and we are entrusted with helping them to grow healthy and independent.  Being personally responsible usually transfers into being thoughtful of others and hopefully translates into global responsibility.