Values and the Child: Best Bent While Young
Values are the shared foundations that hold a society together. We explore the role of family and school in instilling values, and the scope of values education.
We all know the proverb "the tree is best bent while young." A person develops from the moment they are born; even after completing their biological maturity, they continue to develop their character. This very development is the most crucial point of education. In this article we examine the role of family and school in instilling values in a child.
What Is a Value?
A value is the sum of shared thoughts, feelings and beliefs held by the members of a society, holding that society together and ensuring its continuity. These values are of vital importance for individuals to live in harmony and for unity and togetherness to endure. At school, the most important environment a child encounters after their family, instilling these social values matters greatly so that the child can develop a sense of belonging.
On a person’s growth journey full of critical stages, the school is rich with the means to educate them rightly "while the tree is young."
The Scope of Values Education
As stated in the relevant circular of the Ministry of National Education, education is the most important factor in instilling in individuals the moral, human, social and spiritual values that form social life, bind people to one another and provide happiness. Passing these gains on to students is what constitutes values education.
In brief
- Values are the shared foundations that hold a society together.
- After the family, the school is the most important institution in instilling values in a child.
- Values education aims to turn virtues into behaviour.
For our approach to education grounded in our values, you can explore our guidance unit or get in touch with us.
Frequently Asked Questions
At what age should values education begin?
The foundation of values is laid in early childhood. The tree is best bent while young; for this reason family and school should serve as role models together from an early age.
Does the school take on the family’s role in values education?
The school complements the family. It reinforces social values in order to develop the child’s sense of belonging and ability to live in harmony.
Gökkuşağı Koleji · A child who grows with values.