The Fourth “R” for School Success is Responsibility

Every parent knows the importance of the three “Rs”: reading, writing and arithmetic. Some call them the basics of a good education. But there’s a fourth “R” –Responsibility—and it’s also basic to learning.

Well-disciplined students take responsibility for their own learning and behavior at home and at school. They don’t have to be nagged about their homework or attending school—because they are self-motivated and self-directed.

Well-disciplined students don’t make excuses and blame others for their problems. They make good choices about what to do and when to do it. They are conscientious and resourceful….and they don’t quit easily.

But none of this is inborn. Students taking responsibility for their actions is an important step in becoming self-disciplined – and it must be learned. Because parents are a child’s most influential teachers, the very best place for children to learn to take responsibility for their own learning and behavior is right at home.