At Moorelands, our Habits & Qualities shape a lot of what we learn in our after-school programs and at Moorelands Camp. But the best part about the HQs is that we can use them all the time – at home, in school, with friends and family, and in our communities.
As we approach the end of 2022, there is no better time to put our HQs into practise. We can use them to help spread some joy over the holidays and prepare our skills toolkit for the year ahead.
Here are some ways you can use the HQs over the holidays.
How can you show RESPECT?
It is important to remember that not everybody celebrates the holidays the same way. Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or just enjoy the wintertime festivities, you should respect how others celebrate, too. What does respect look like?
- Listen to the ideas and opinions of others, even if they are different.
- Give others time to speak and talk about their experiences. We can learn so much by listening!
- Remember that it is okay to ask questions as long as we ask them nicely.
How can you be RESPONSIBLE?
The holidays can be a busy time! Parents, guardians, siblings and other family members might feel like there is lots to do. Offering to help tidy up, shovel snow or cook supper can be helpful to others and show responsibility.
How can you show others you CARE?
The best way to show others we care about them is to tell them! Write a letter to a family member, make a homemade gift, or give a card to a role model in your life. Don’t know where to start? Here are some prompts:
- Thank you for being a role model. You have taught me…
- I admire you because…
- I care about you because…
How can you demonstrate TRUSTWORTHINESS?
A trustworthy person is somebody who is dependable and honest. When someone asks something of us, it is important that they know they can trust us with it. For example, if a parent asks you to do an important task like cleaning up after dinner or feeding or walking a pet, let them know that you will do it and they can depend on you next time. Here are three steps to do this:
- When asked to do something, give a response. Say “Yes, I can do that,” so you don’t leave them wondering.
- Do the task and do it responsibly. For example, if you are asked to wash dishes, don’t leave any behind in the sink.
- Follow up – let them know the task is complete.
By following these steps, you will not only show responsibility, but that you can be trusted to help out and follow through.
How can you be a good CITIZEN?
Being a good citizen means being kind to others,being kind to ourselves, and trying to improve our communities. Think about people in your community who might need extra kindness. Here are some ideas:
- If you’re at school or playing outside and you see someone who is left out, invite them to join you.
- Try to reduce your waste this holiday season! If you are giving any gifts, consider wrapping them in newsprint or re-use old wrapping paper.
- Spend time in your community! Ask your parent or guardian if you can volunteer together this December.