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
Move Beyond Stereotypes (Grades 6-12)
Overview: This lesson explores the stories of real people to help students learn how to move beyond stereotypes. They’ll learn how accepting others’ authentic and unique selves demonstrates respect and fairness. Character Education Objectives: Students will: how sharing our individual
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
Making Assumptions and Respecting Others (Grades 6-12)
Overview: This lesson focuses on the importance of respecting the differences of others, the impact of making assumptions about others, and how respecting each other’s differences can make relationships stronger. Character Education Objectives: Students will: watch a video about respecting the
True Friends (Grades 6-12)
Overview: This lesson asks students to consider their current friendships. Having true friends is important and learning what healthy and trusting relationships feel like is imperative for a teen’s social development. Character Education Objectives: Students will: read a poem about
Fairness and Appearances (Grades 6-12)
This lesson explores injustice based on appearances. The lesson explores a group of children who could not live with the lack of fairness shown to one couple.
Responsibility Artwork (Grades 6-12)
Overview: Students will create responsibility artwork with a quote. Character Education Objectives: Students will: research quotes or proverbs about responsibility. share their favorite quote on responsibility. create a drawing featuring their quote. Materials: Paper Markers Colored pencils Access to the Internet
Disagreeing with Respect (Grades 6-12)
Overview: This lesson focuses on disagreeing with respect. Character Education Objectives: Students will: review a video about respecting others even when you disagree. discuss what it means to respect others through disagreement. reflect on their own level of respect during
Trust and Safety (Grades 6-12)
Overview: Students will reflect on their responsibility for trust and safety. Character Education Objectives: Students will: Read essays on trust and safety. Reflect on how they keep themselves safe. Consider ways they could protect themselves better. Essays: Tucker, A. 2011.