Family Values Statement

What is Family Values Statement?

Research from the Search Institute's 'Developmental Assets' framework shows that families with clearly articulated shared values raise children with stronger identity, better decision-making, and greater resilience. A family values statement — co-created and regularly referenced — gives children an internal compass for making choices when parents aren't present. It transforms 'because I said so' into 'because this is who we are as a family.'

Is there evidence for it?

How do you do Family Values Statement?

1. 1.Hold a special family session: ask each member (including young children) to share what they think your family stands for
2. 2.Identify 3-5 core values that resonate with everyone (e.g., 'We are kind,' 'We try hard things,' 'We tell the truth,' 'We take care of each other,' 'We have fun')
3. 3.Write or create the values statement together — let children help with wording and artwork. Make it theirs, not yours imposed on them
4. 4.Display it prominently in your home. Reference it in daily life: 'In our family, we tell the truth — what really happened?'
5. 5.Revisit annually — let children add or modify values as they mature. The conversation itself is as valuable as the document

How long does it take?

1-2 hours initial creation, brief ongoing references.

Is it hard to start?

easy.

This is one entry from the library Shift matches against. It is general information, not advice about you, and nothing on this page came from anyone's conversation.