If we are to help children develop character, we have to go beyond offering a character education class once or twice each month. We actually have to validate character when we see it or hear about it happening. Through the use of a new strategy called "focused invitations," counselors and teachers can focus on the 36 core components of character.…

Each year more children come to school unprepared to relate appropriately to others and to contribute to a positive school climate. These children seem to have more problems and less ability to cope with the structural environment of the school. Educators tend to agree that many children lack the character traits necessary for healthy, positive…