Nowadays, boys and girls are completely exposed to a wide variety of models and lifestyles. In that amalgam of messages, values such as authenticity, respect, or effort sometimes become confused. It is in this environment of screens and social networks where books, stories, and literature in general stand as a true legion of heroes and heroines capable of bringing universal and fundamental values closer to the little ones, helping them to build themselves as people and navigate through life.
The importance of values in early childhood education
Value-based education is fundamental to the integral development of children. These values guide their behavior, influence their decisions, and form the basis of an ethical and moral life. Therefore, teaching them from an early age helps children understand the difference between right and wrong, develop empathy, and build healthy relationships. After all, values are principles that govern conduct and determine priorities in life. In the context of childhood, values such as honesty, responsibility, respect, empathy, solidarity, and perseverance are essential for balanced development and the formation of responsible and conscious citizens. Their instillation not only benefits children in their personal and academic lives but also contributes to the construction of a more just and harmonious society. It benefits us all.
Why use books to teach values?
Children’s books are an ideal tool for teaching values for several reasons:
Captivating stories
Well-constructed narratives capture children’s attention and make lessons more memorable. Stories have the power to transport readers to different worlds, allowing them to experience diverse situations and emotions. This facilitates the understanding and internalization of the values presented.
Role models
Characters in books can serve as models of positive behavior. Children tend to identify with characters and imitate them, which makes the teachings more effective. Well-designed characters with aspirational traits can inspire children to adopt positive behaviors and attitudes.
Varied contexts
Books can present diverse situations in which values are applied, helping children understand how to apply them in real life. This diversity of contexts allows children to see how values are relevant in different situations, from daily life to extraordinary circumstances.
Emotional development
Through identification with characters, children can explore and understand their own emotions and those of others. This fosters empathy and emotional intelligence, essential skills for social interaction and personal well-being. There are many classic books that teach values, such as “The Little Prince” by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry or “Elmer” by David McKee. The former is a classic of children’s literature that addresses deep themes such as friendship, love, and responsibility. Through the adventures of the little prince and his relationship with various characters on different planets, children learn about the importance of looking beyond appearances and valuing what is truly essential. This book teaches how to appreciate the small things in life and understand the value of emotional bonds. On the other hand, “Elmer” is the story of a multicolored elephant who feels different from the others. This book teaches children about acceptance and diversity, showing that our differences make us special. Through Elmer’s adventures, children learn to value individuality and understand that being different is a positive thing. There are more books and stories with modern themes and fascinating approaches capable of transmitting fundamental values. Stories like “Luna” and “Burricornio,” published by nöpp. “Luna” is an ideal story for the youngest children. Written and illustrated by Christian Roux, this story-game helps identify words and concepts thanks to the successful combination of educational text and delicately dreamlike illustration. Furthermore, the story is also a song to imagination and empowerment. Finally, “Burricornio” (Donkeycorn), written and illustrated by José Fragoso, is the funniest comic for children ages 6 and up. Through witty dialogue and hilarious illustrations, its funny protagonist—”99% donkey, 1% unicorn”—leaves the farm to become a circus star. However, he will soon learn that, in life, it is basic to accept yourself and value what you have.
How to choose books that teach values
Know your child’s interests
It is important to select books that align with the child’s interests and age. A book that does not capture their attention will hardly transmit its values effectively. A child’s interests can vary widely, from animals and adventures to fantasy and science. Identifying these interests can make the reading experience more attractive and educational.
Check reviews and recommendations
Reviews from other parents and educators can be very useful for identifying books that have been effective in teaching values. Recommendations based on personal experiences can provide valuable insight into how books have positively impacted other children.
Value the quality of the illustrations
Books with attractive, high-quality illustrations tend to better capture children’s attention and make the stories more memorable. Vivid and detailed images can enrich the reading experience, helping children visualize the stories and connect emotionally with the characters.
Look for diversity
It is beneficial to expose children to a variety of cultures, perspectives, and experiences through literature. This not only enriches their understanding of the world but also promotes empathy and the acceptance of diversity. Books that represent different cultures and contexts can broaden the child’s vision and foster greater respect for differences.
Consider the repetition of themes
The repetition of themes and values in different contexts can help reinforce lessons learned. Do not hesitate to select several books that address the same value from different angles. Repeated exposure to the same values in different narratives can consolidate the understanding and application of these principles in daily life.
How to maximize the educational impact of books
Read together with your child
Shared reading not only strengthens the bond between parents and children but also allows for discussing and reflecting on the values presented in the book. This shared time can be an opportunity for parents to model positive behaviors and discuss how values apply in real life.
Ask open-ended questions
Involve your child in the story by asking open-ended questions that promote reflection and dialogue. For example: “What do you think made the character act that way?” or “How would you feel if you were in their place?”. These questions can stimulate critical thinking and help children analyze the actions and decisions of characters from different perspectives.
Relate stories to personal experiences
Help your child connect the lessons from the books with situations in their own life. This can make the values taught more relevant and applicable. For example, after reading a story about honesty, you can discuss a situation where the child had to be honest and how they felt about it.
Reinforce values through activities
Complement the reading with practical activities that reinforce the values learned. For example, after reading a book about generosity, you can organize a toy or clothing donation activity. These practical experiences can consolidate values and allow children to see the tangible benefits of applying them in their daily lives. Thus, fostering reading from an early age not only improves children’s linguistic and cognitive skills but also provides them with a deeper understanding of the values and principles that will guide their lives. The combination of captivating stories, inspiring characters, and moral lessons can have a lasting impact on children’s personal and emotional development, preparing them to face life’s challenges with integrity and empathy.