Children turn to their parents and educators to learn how to navigate the world. The values we consider important would be the same values they will consider important. They learn by example, which is why it’s commonly said that one should not do bad practices in front of a child.
Now that you know what you should not do in front of a child, let’s focus on what you should teach them instead. In schools, particularly environmentally friendly schools, these should be highlighted:
Resourcefulness
There is no single solution to a problem. A child who is resourceful can look at different ways to arrive at the same answer, given what is currently available to them. Teach a child this skill and they will be able to survive no matter what setting they are in.
Inquisitiveness
Problem-solving does not happen instantaneously. One does not simply look at a problem and suddenly know how to tackle it. Being inquisitive teaches children to gather as much information about the situation so that they know all the facts before creating their solution. Being inquisitive also teaches them to think outside the box. The complexity or effectiveness of their solution can only be limited by the questions they ask. The more they ask, the wider their understanding of the problem will become.
Innovation
After gathering all the information they need to solve a problem, they now innovate their solution. It is important that children are encouraged to come up with a solution that has not been done before so that their ideas can bear fruit. When we teach children to just do as we’ve always done, we stifle their individual growth and our societal growth. Remember, these are the children who will lead our country in the future.
Perseverance
A solution may not be perfect from the get-go, but we should teach our children to persevere. Only then can they learn from their mistakes and try again. If we show them that there is nothing to fear in failing, they will be encouraged to try more of their ideas.
Children are like sponges that absorb everything they see and hear around them. Be more particular about the kinds of lessons you are teaching them.