Rules in Character Building
In conclusion, the rules that may be safely followed in character-building may be summed up thus:
(1) Recognize that the object of your training is to help the child to love righteousness. Command little and then use positive commands rather than prohibitions. Use "do" rather than "don't."
(2) Make right-doing delightful.
(3) Establish Fichte's doctrine of right, see page 64.
(4) Teach by example rather than precept. Therefore respect the child's rights as you wish him to respect yours.
(5) Use a low voice, especially in commanding or rebuking.
(6) In chiding, remember Richter's rule and rebuke the sin and not the sinner.
(7) Confess your own misdeeds, by this means and others securing the confidence of your children.