Cast Your Vote for Good Social Skills
As any educator will tell you, there is a great deal of academic content kids need to learn in school. But just as important is the need for them to develop good behavioral skills. Intelligence alone can be dangerous if it is not coupled with healthy emotional expression and respectful social interaction. If you need convincing of this, check out the latest news, advertisement, or social media post on the election.
To say I’m concerned about our toxic political climate is an understatement, but what worries me more is what children are absorbing based on the words and actions adults are currently modeling. 100% of the time kids are watching, listening, and thus, learning. So, keep in mind some lessons many candidates and others are remiss in practicing:
• Treat others the way you want to be treated.
• Disagree when needed – but do so respectfully.
• Control your anger.
• Take the high road.
• Respect differences.
• Think before you speak.
When I was growing up, I remember learning how to behave from Gallant and Goofus who were characters in the Highlights magazine. Gallant showed us the right way to do things and Goofus provided the opposite. As election day approaches, I pray we all do a better job of modeling Gallant behaviors so we can balance out the exponential number of Goofus ones that will surely be on display.