Children make GOOD decisions for varied reasons depending on their developmental stage. Young children generally act favorably to receive validation and praise or to avoid a negative consequence. In time, this construct is replaced by an internal desire to do what is right balanced against a strong personal need to avoid loss or ensure gain. Later, ongoing maturation results in an increased determination to make good decisions based more so on “justness” and less on subjective drives.
We want our children to make good decisions for the right reasons. Are we willing to ACTIVELY engage them to teach the skills they need?
Wishing your success,
Dr. Mark