Make sure your child knows that vandalism is wrong
When you hear the phrase “school vandalism,” do you think of
major offenses like smashed windows or broken desks? If so, you’re forgetting
that vandalism includes so-called minor offenses, too, from doodling in textbooks
to sticking gum under a chair. In other words, school vandalism is any behavior
that damages property.
Here are some ways to keep your child from committing acts of vandalism—and
to deal with him if he already has:
- Explain all the behaviors that are considered vandalism. If you don’t
think gum under the seat or scribbles in a book are vandalism, he won’t
either. Together, review your child’s school handbook and the policy
on vandalism.
- Talk about respect for property. Explain that he must be a responsible
member of the school community. Discuss the expense vandalism costs the
school system.
- Enforce a consequence. When your child vandalizes something, have him
make amends. If his teacher says he wrote on his desk, suggest to her that
he clean all the desks.
If his offense is more serious and requires something to be replaced or
repaired, make him pay for it. If he doesn’t have the money, pay for
it yourself. Afterward, have him work off his debt by doing extra chores
around the house.
Reprinted with permission from the March 2005 issue of Parents Still
make the difference!® (Middle School Edition) newsletter. Copyright
© 2005 The Parent Institute®, a division of NIS, Inc. Source: Dr.
Kenneth Shore, “Dealing with School Vandalism,” Education World,
www.educationworld.com/a_curr/shore/shore037.shtml.