Downloadable Resources to Build Self-Discipline
How to Use the Resources to Teach Self-Discipline
For a fun and structured way to build character in your kids all year long, download the calendar and stickers.
Each calendar month focuses on a unique character trait. And each character trait has a unique printable teaching resource to help you build character in your child. You can download it below.
The resource includes:
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- definition card – to build an understanding of self-discipline.
- verse card – to memorize why self-discipline is important.
- question/challenge – to discuss or practice self-discipline.
- character certificate – to recognize monthly progress in acquiring self-discipline.
- reward coupon – to have fun and show your child how proud you are of them!
Use some or all of the resources to build self-discipline in your child all month. You can also use the printable sticker sheet to cut out and place stickers on dates you see your child showing the trait you’re working on that month. You just need one 8.5″ x 11″ sheet of sticker paper.
Self-discipline is just one of the 12 character traits we want to help you build in your kids. Here are more.
Why Self-Discipline Is Important for Kids
My daughter is a perfectionist-in-training. She’s the kind of kid who craves being good at everything and is never satisfied with failure. When she told us she was determined to learn to play piano, we knew it meant she had just signed herself up for countless hours seated at the instrument with her fingers dancing on the keys. The piano is not something you can master in a few minutes, and she is the kind of child who won’t be happy until she masters the music.
To be great, she will have to show a lot of self-discipline.
Self-discipline is training yourself, usually for improvement. Concert pianists will play music for 3-4 hours per day. Professional golfers want to win tournaments, so they hit 500 golf balls during practice. Successful bodybuilders want big muscles and no fat, so they lift weights and lay off the cheesecake. Achieving a goal requires self-discipline.
Parents who want their children to thrive in their chosen passions much teach them the importance of self-discipline. Those lessons will set them on the path to success. Your daughter will not become a great ballet dancer while sitting on the couch. Your son will be less likely to score highly on the ACT if he does not study. Self-discipline is the fuel for achievement.
How to Teach Self-Discipline to Kids
Talk about goals.
Make a list of your child’s passions, hopes, and dreams. Put together an action plan to cross the finish line on those goals. Talk about what kind of self-discipline it will take to make it happen.
Look for like-minded kids.
Find kids who also enjoy your child’s favorite activities. Challenge them to work hard together to become the best they can be.
Take breaks.
Avoid burnout by urging your children to take breaks. Even the most dedicated aspiring pianists need to give their fingers and minds a rest. Encourage your kids, but don’t allow them to push themselves too hard.
Give examples of sacrifice.
Self-discipline requires sacrifice. Point out when you see people making sacrifices because of a greater goal, like a friend who misses a birthday party because she has rehearsal for a big recital.
