Restitution provides a way for children to “pay back” their mistakes. It can be a helpful way to teach children the importance of treating others and property with respect. When children make mistakes, they should acknowledge their wrong choice and think of a way to fix it. The restitution should be directly related to their incorrect behavior. The focus should be on fixing the damaged property or relationship rather than punishment.
Below you will find resources you can use at home to help teach this important skill to your child.
Resources for Young Children:
Information:
Use Restitution to Discipline Your Child
https://www.verywellfamily.com/how-to-use-restitution-to-discipline-your-child-1094755
What to do When Your Child is Not Kind
https://www.readbrightly.com/what-to-do-when-your-child-is-not-kind/
How to Help Your Kids Make Amends for Mistakes
Activities:
Making Amends for Kids
https://ggia.berkeley.edu/practice/making_amends_for_kids
Videos:
It’s Okay to Make Mistakes
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aLVYtfqSsK0
What to Do After Making a Mistake pt. 7
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HqjXLXfkS6Q
Resources for Adolescents:
Information:
Restitution for Parents
https://realrestitution.com/restitution-for-parents/
Activities:
Restitution Script for Parents
Videos:
What to Do After Making a Mistake pt. 7
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HqjXLXfkS6Q
The Most Effective Form of Discipline