This article was originally published in the February 2023 edition of Story Monsters.® For over 30 years, CHARACTER COUNTS! has worked with parents, educators, and coaches around the world to help them instill the Six Pillars of Character— trustworthiness, respect,
What is the Content of Your Character?
This article was originally published in the January 2023 edition of Story Monsters.® Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. may have stated it best when he wrote, “Intelligence plus character—that is the goal of true education.” That’s what we’re chasing as
Giving Compliments (Grades K-5)
Overview: Compliments are most meaningful when they are heartfelt and specific. In this activity, students practice giving compliments that are specific and kind. Students will also explore the right way to respond to compliments. Character Education Objectives: Students will: brainstorm
Following Directions and Playing by the Rules (Grades K-5)
Objective: Playing by the rules is an important part of fairness. Students will learn that in order to play by the rules, we need to listen carefully and follow directions. We can only play fair when we understand the rules.
Social-Emotional Learning Funded by ESSER
Social-Emotional Learning and Character Education can be funded by ESSER! An intentional focus on social-emotional learning and character skills has never been more important. Fortunately, the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) Fund (I and II) provides funding for
Our Differences Make Us Stronger (Grades K-5)
Overview: Our differences are our greatest strengths. Learning about what we have in common gives us a sense of belonging, but embracing and respecting our differences makes us a stronger community. Objectives: Students will: explore the similarities and differences of their
Trustworthy Friends (Grades K-5)
Overview: This activity will demonstrate ways that reliable and trustworthy friends can help you achieve things that feel impossible. Knowing how to identify traits of a trustworthy friend and the benefits of being one will help students as they develop
Finding Common Ground (Grades K-5)
Overview: Students will explore the benefits of finding common ground with others in their community. This lesson promotes good citizenship. Character Education Objectives: Students will: experience finding common ground with others. discuss how collaboration and community are impacted by citizens finding
Fairness (Grades K-5)
This lesson explores how an unfair situation can lead to frustration or anger and how to resolve it. It also allows students to demonstrate their understanding of fairness by recreating the rules to make a game fair for all participants.
Working with a Team (Grades K-5)
Overview: This lesson highlights the importance of bringing our best selves when working with a team. Character Education Objectives: Students will: determine roles for each team member practice bringing their best self to a group task through their defined role reflect