Share this article
“We are what we repeatedly do,” said Aristotle. “Excellence, then, is not an act but a habit.”
We all know the power of habit to benefit or harm us. The beauty of good habits is that once formed, they operate like a second nature. At The Oaks Academy we consider habit formation as the foundation of character development. Small acts, done repeatedly, until they are second nature, free us up to focus on new learning and enjoy good relationships.
Students at The Oaks focus on the development of 12 important habits throughout their time at the school, with four introduced in Pre-K/Kindergarten, four added in 2nd grade and the final four added in middle school. The first four habits introduced to students are the habit of attention, obedience, respect, and responsibility; described below.
Habit of AttentionThe habit of attention requires that one fix mind and body steadily on the matter at hand. Habit of ObedienceObedience is demonstrated by responding immediately and completely to authority, as well as accepting consequences willingly. Habit of RespectShowing respect involves using good manners and self-control in words and actions. Habit of ResponsibilityResponsibility is shown when care is given to personal belongings and school property, and tasks are completed. |
 |
One of our school’s core values is relationships come first, and good habits support good relationships. For example, students are taught that the habit of responsibility includes taking care of the toys in the classroom which someone else is going to use in the future. This helps students understand that practicing responsibility is more than just a task or habit they learn, but a way to show care towards and take care of others.
As habits are trained, young children have the feeling of growing up, which is a delight to them. They no longer have lost their favorite toy because they practiced responsibility and put it away correctly or they have a more enjoyable play date because they practiced respect towards others, and others practiced it towards them. The emotional connection that students make while practicing habits and forming relationships also brings them a sense of happiness.
As parents and educators we sometimes confuse training in habit with teaching. Training is to do, teaching is to know. While most schools focus on teaching alone, at The Oaks we come alongside parents to support in training as well – developing good character along with knowledge.
Share this article
Explore the crucial link between third-grade reading proficiency and lifelong success and how The Oaks’ commitment to literacy fosters a path to achievement.
Through a blend of faith-based principles and scientific exploration, students engaged in lessons that instilled awe for the cosmos while fostering a deeper understanding of the rare astronomical event, leaving families and faculty alike in awe of their preparedness and knowledge.
Take a look back at the 2023-24 Winter Sports season and congratulate our talented student-athletes on their phenomenal seasons!
Change is always challenging, especially when it may effect your children. Please share any questions or comments you have using the form below, or by emailing me directly at ahart@theoaksacademy.org.
I’ll respond to your inquiry directly and as quickly as I can.