“It’s great to have him back, but I already run my class and raise my daughter according to his book.” — a KCS teacher
I knew it as soon as I heard Ron Morrish, speaker and author of Secrets of Effective Discipline and With All Due Respect, over 10 years ago. His message on how to develop self-discipline in children would transform my approach as both educator and mother of two young boys. Seven years ago he first spoke at KCS. This month he visited with faculty once again.
Many parents and visitors have remarked on the manners and behaviour of our students. Stand-out moments for visitors are how often they’re greeted by students and have the door held open for them. For a bustling community of 369 students, over 60 staff, and the many parents and others who join us each day, the atmosphere is happy, respectful and purposeful. While there are many good reasons for that, one is Ron Morrish and how KCS has incorporated his pointers into our day.
Ron is the first to say that much of his advice captures how many of us were raised. He says it’s the “common sense” that, unfortunately, is less common these days. So what’s included in this common sense on character? Here’s a small sample:
- Always model the behaviour you seek
- Teach the behaviour you seek; don’t assume children should know how to behave at all times
- Be clear and ensure follow-through on directions
- Make sure small things are done properly and consistently (manners, holding doors, routines)
- When mistakes happen, require a “do-over”; mistakes mean more practice doing things right
- Take proactive steps so children can be successful behaving as they’ve been taught
- This all takes persistent work
Parents, you’ll be glad to know that your children’s teachers spent an afternoon enjoying a refresher from Ron Morrish. And to the parents and educators seeking more self-discipline among the young in your midst, consider looking into Ron’s teachings. As it has for many of us, it could really make a difference for you too.
Assistant Head, Academics
You can follow Andrea on Twitter @afanjoy.