character

Self-control

Build a fort, play the giggle game, or shake a pop bottle into a volcano of fizz. Who would have thought learning self-discipline could be so much fun?

Children live “in the moment,” spontaneously acting on their emotions in ways that can be whimsical and charming one minute, then suddenly hurtful or destructive the next. The ideas suggested here will help you teach your children not to merely hide negative emotions, but to handle them – to manage them constructively in dependence on God and the Holy Spirit. Don’t lose heart: your child can learn not to overreact, or lash out by shouting or hitting. Instead, they’ll learn to be patient, respectful and considerate of the feelings of others.