What Children Must Be Taught About Decisions and Choices

Observe any child under seven during unstructured play. They’re making quick decisions with whatever they see right in front of them.

They keep things simple and don’t complicate things unnecessarily. They don’t even care about expensive toys as long as they have something to tinker with that engages their curiosity and wonder.

When decisions are constantly made for children, it takes away their power to choose. But the ability to weigh options, carefully consider consequences, and then decide between choices is an empowering act.

So, here’s the thing.

Unless it’s a matter of life and death, don’t decide everything for your children. Those who are given the chance to rescue themselves will also find ways to recover from the consequences later.

If we don’t allow our children to make small decisions now, especially when the risk is low, how can we expect them to have the confidence to make big decisions on their own later?

Instead of making decisions for our children, it’s important for us to enable them to arrive at their own conclusions about what they want to do.

After all, if kids make their own choices, they will also be more invested in following through with the outcomes.

Tell them three simple things about decision-making.

Listen to your head.
Follow your heart.
Trust what your gut tells you.

Responsible decision-making can be taught by helping children understand ethical standards, personal values, safety concerns, respect for others and, most importantly, the potential consequences of their actions.

Their choices today can have a long-term impact on their own lives and the well-being of their communities.

Real life is messy. And unpredictable.

We’re simply training our future generation for the long run.