modern interpretation of Benjamin Franklin’s 13 Virtues, followed by kid-friendly reflections
1. Temperance
Modern Meaning: Don’t overdo eating or drinking. Stay balanced.
For Kids: Eat enough to feel good, not too much to feel sleepy or sick.
Try This: “Today I’ll stop eating when I’m full, not when my plate is empty.”
2. Silence
Modern Meaning: Only say things that help, teach, or are kind. Don’t gossip or argue for no reason.
For Kids: Think before you speak—does it help or hurt?
Try This: “Before I speak, I’ll ask: Is it true? Is it kind? Is it helpful?”
3. Order
Modern Meaning: Keep your space tidy and your time organized.
For Kids: Clean your room and make a to-do list for your homework or chores.
Try This: “I’ll put my backpack, books, and shoes in the right place today.”
4. Resolution
Modern Meaning: Set goals and stick to them.
For Kids: If you say you’ll do something—do it!
Try This: “I will finish the story I started writing before I do something else.”
5. Frugality
Modern Meaning: Don’t waste money or things. Be careful and thoughtful.
For Kids: Don’t waste snacks, toys, or electricity.
Try This: “Instead of asking for a new toy, I’ll fix or use the one I already have.”
6. Industry
Modern Meaning: Use your time wisely. Do things that help you grow.
For Kids: Less scrolling or TV—more learning, reading, helping.
Try This: “I’ll spend 30 minutes today reading or creating instead of just watching videos.”
7. Sincerity
Modern Meaning: Be honest and kind. Don’t lie or pretend.
For Kids: Say what you really mean, kindly and truthfully.
Try This: “If I mess up, I’ll tell the truth and say I’m sorry.”
8. Justice
Modern Meaning: Be fair. Do what’s right even if it’s hard.
For Kids: If you see someone being left out or treated badly, speak up.
Try This: “I’ll include someone who seems lonely at school today.”
9. Moderation
Modern Meaning: Don’t go to extremes. Stay calm and balanced.
For Kids: It’s okay to be mad, but don’t stay mad too long or over small things.
Try This: “If I get upset today, I’ll take a deep breath and talk it out.”
10. Cleanliness
Modern Meaning: Keep yourself, your things, and your space clean.
For Kids: Brush your teeth, wash your hands, and help keep the house tidy.
Try This: “Tonight I’ll clean up my desk before bed.”
11. Tranquillity
Modern Meaning: Don’t let little things bother you. Stay peaceful.
For Kids: Don’t freak out if something small goes wrong—stay calm.
Try This: “If I lose a game or make a mistake, I’ll say, ‘It’s okay. I’ll try again.’”
12. Chastity
Modern Meaning (for kids): Respect your body and others’. Choose healthy friendships and safe boundaries.
For Kids: Treat your body kindly. Don’t let others treat you badly.
Try This: “I’ll stand up for myself if someone is unkind or unfair to me or others.”
13. Humility
Modern Meaning: Be modest. Learn from others. Don’t brag.
For Kids: Don’t say “I’m better.” Say “I’m learning.”
Try This: “I’ll ask for help today when I don’t know something instead of pretending I do.”
