Responsibility

The reality of responsibility

Other

Educate your children about the proper use and care of their favourite items.

Discussion point: Responsibility means taking care of our possessions.

As parents we often make the mistake of assuming our kids know how to care for things. Then we end up dealing with a disappointed child who bent a badminton racquet using it as a hammer, or who left an electronic device outdoors in the rain.

Ideally, each time your children are given something, spend some time educating them on how to care for it. The message your children need to get is, We take care of the things we own so they remain in good condition and last longer.

Use these sample questions or similar ones to review proper care of possessions with your children.

Questions for discussion
  • Is this a toy or a tool?
  • How was this designed to be used?
  • How could this ________ get ruined or damaged?
  • Where will you store this ________ to keep it safe?
  • What are the instructions for care that came with this ________?
  • Is this meant to be used / worn outdoors or indoors?
  • What kind of fabric is this ________ (article of clothing) made from?
  • Is this ________ (article of clothing) for play or for dress-up?
  • How do you want this ________ to look in five years?
Relevant Scripture

Proverbs 12:27 “Whoever is slothful will not roast his game, but the diligent man will get precious wealth.

Ecclesiastes 10:18 “Through sloth the roof sinks in, and through indolence the house leaks.