The moral development of children typically occurs slowly and in several stages, beginning in the preschool years and continuing until the adult years, and sometimes into the adult years. Each stage encourages a new idea of what is wrong and what is right as well as the various reasons why people must exhibit characteristics of morality such as honesty, trustworthiness, generousness, selflessness, loyalty, tolerance, respectfulness and ethical behavior.
Throughout the process of moral development, children will begin to develop a conscience. Generally, the term "conscience" refers to an individual's internal standards of right and wrong and if the individual will follow or violate those internal standards. Individuals with a developed conscience will typically feel guilt after committing a wrongdoing, along with the need to confess and make reparation. A conscience also encourages self-control, one of the foundational elements of moral development.
Empathy is another benefit of a child's moral development. Empathy is the emotional response to another's distress from an individual observing or imagining that distress. While empathy is somewhat of an innate and automatic reaction, such as a baby crying when another baby cries, moral development assists in global empathy, or the ability to see things from the perspective of others.
Teaching by example is a way to encourage moral reasoning and moral behavior in children. Teaching by example includes not only treating children with respect but also treating others and yourself with respect. Teach children to earn the respect of others with the correct behaviors and attitudes. While setting a good example is essential, it is also important to teach children how to think for themselves. Discuss moral issues with your children and encourage them to take the time to take into consideration the viewpoints of others.