As a school counselor, I used bibliotherapy to teach character education. I found using books or stories a powerful tool to teach values and life lessons at any age. When kids relate to the message and characters in a book, learning takes place and moral lessons can be applied to their life. Using stories to develop a child of character is an effective way to connect with your child on their level and then move them forward where you want them to be.
When choosing a story to teach a character lesson, determine if it is age-appropriate in content and comprehension. If you know a story is above your child’s ability, find ways to tone down the content, focus on the message you are trying to convey, and help your child relate to the characters. If a story is below your child’s ability, don’t shy away from using it to teach a lesson. Kids will learn regardless of the reading level if they relate to the plot and characters.
There are great stories and books parents can use for developing tolerance, compassion, and kindness to others. When reading with your child or discussing books with your teen, try the following conversation starters to reinforce the message in the book:
- Have you ever…
- Do you know someone…
- Have you seen your friends…
- Can you think of a time when…
- How does our community compare to…
For more information on bibliotherapy and books that teach values, look into these resources:
- http://freestoriesforkids.com/tales-for-kids/values-and-virtues
- http://www.teachingvalues.com/whystorytelling.html
- http://www.carnegielibrary.org/research/parentseducators/parents/bibliotherapy/
- http://www.values.com
- http://www.scholastic.com/teachers/top-teaching/2012/11/teaching-character-traits-readers-workshop
At Families on the Home Front, we’re in this together raising children of character! If you have a book you love that teaches values or a resource about character development you have found helpful, please share with us.
Leave a Reply