Family Values

We hear talk all the time about family values and what families really hold near and dear to them, especially during election years. Have you ever sat down as a family and stated what your values as a family are? Our families who attended this week's Strengthening Families Program had the opportunity to illustrate their values and much more.

The youth started their session learning about rules and consequences. Each youth had the opportunity to earn their Strengthening Families drivers license, a really cool car, and the opportunity to drive around the town we developed. At each stop they received a car that told them about their driving habits. If they were following driving rules they were allowed to go to the next stop. If they had broken a driving law they missed a turn. At the end they were trying to see who would make it to our final stop, the pizza shop, first. Most importantly they walked away learning that breaking rules have consequences. They also worked through activities to show why it is important for adults to follow rules and the severe consequences that can occur if they do not.

Families came together to talk about the values that are important to them. The families made collage shields that show what is important to them and what they hold dear as they make decisions and set goals. Many of the families listed religion, trust, and helping others as goals. Other values included environment, helping the elderly, working with others, health and fitness as values as well.

This was week four of our six week program. If you would like more information about the Strengthening Families Program, please contact Christy Strickland, Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Agent, at (910) 671-3276 or Christy_Strickland@ncsu.edu.