The goal is to help children think in such a way that their actions demonstrate respect for the rights, safety, and learning of others. In many instances, people do things to get what they want but often pay little attention to whom it hurts or what may happen due to their actions. By asking the children a series of questions, they are taught to think responsibly about what they have done and their choices. Through this questioning process, children are not told how to act but instead taught how to think.
The Responsible Thinking Concept is not based on rewards and punishment because that places responsibility for the actions on the person with authority instead of the child, where it belongs. Mutual respect is fostered through the questioning process. Children learn, with assistance, how to make a plan to help them deal with future situations. Confidence is built when students make their own choices to obey the rules and, by doing that, experience success.
