Morality and Parenting
Part of our education as we grow and develop as human-beings is to establish a set of beliefs. Many of our beliefs and character traits pivot around our moral values. One of the benefits of raising children is not only passing on our family history and cultural beliefs, but moral beliefs, as well. Children, as early as the age of two, begin to understand the concepts of right and wrong. This article will help you, the parent, with some beginning talking points to begin discussing moral values with your child.
Possible Topics to Discuss:
- Your child sees cheating occurring at school.
- Your child witnesses drugs being sold at school.
- Your child finds some money or a valuable item sitting on the floor at school.
- Your child hears another student talking about hurting him or herself.
- Your child hears another student talking about hurting someone else.
- Your child knows that a fight is going to take place at school.
- Your child sees a student bullying another student.
- Your child sees a students stealing in the lunchroom.
Possible Solutions to Discuss:
Have a discussion with your child and let him or her know that discussing right and wrong, good and bad, or “moral issues” 
is important part of growing up. Congratulate your child for participating in this type of discussion.
When your child see something occurring that he or she feels is wrong, encourage your child to discuss the matter with you, a teacher, a school counselor, a school administrator, school police officer, coach, or any other trusted adult. You, as a parent, may have to go with your child if he or she needs support in doing this.
School officials will most often follow up on anonymous tips. For example: If your child is afraid to report something that they know is wrong, encourage your child to leave a note or letter with a trusted adult that describes what your child is seeing.
If your child shares information with you regarding an emergency issue for a student or person (suicide plan, assault, weapon, drug use), contact the school immediately. If the school is closed or you are unable to reach a school official, contact the police or dial 911.
