Character education for home schools is the heart of a home school curriculum. One reason for home school is our desire that the children's education embodies our beliefs, and for most of us, that includes moral values. Some parents want values that lead to scholastic attainment. Others want education to embody values associated with religious beliefs. In either case, character education is of great importance to the father or mother who chooses home schooling.

Character education for home schools continues as we impart to our children what we have mastered. It is a part of nurturing the whole child. A second reason we home school is to supply aspects of education that we believe our children would not get outside the home. Some contend that they get character education in the schools, but for us, it is not enough. Our home schools can individualize character education. We can meet specifically the need of a daughter who lacks responsibility or a son who has not mastered self-control. We can weave moral strength into the fiber of their individual lives.

Finding materials to teach character is not difficult. Look for publishers who have strong character themselves. It will shape every product they offer. Look for materials that are specifically created for the purpose, not those that force character education. Seek out materials that will not lecture your child, materials that do not stop with a single lesson, but can be woven throughout your school day. Pay a little more, if need be, to get quality products. This sends a subtle message to your children that character is more important than many other courses of study. Look, too, for products that can be used repeatedly.