The Virtue of Consideration: Stories for Children

The Virtue of Consideration: Stories for Children

A Magical Journey Awaits

The Tale of Cora and the Caring Creatures

Cora Learns from the Caring Creatures

Once upon a time, a young girl named Cora lived in a vibrant village between rolling hills and whispering woods. Cora was known for her sparkling eyes and a heart full of curiosity. Every day, she explored the meadows, played by the stream, and talked to the friendly animals that called the village home.

One sunny afternoon, as Cora picked wildflowers by the forest’s edge, she heard a soft, sorrowful sound. It was a small bird with a broken wing, chirping weakly for help. Without hesitation, Cora gently picked up the bird and carried it home. She cleaned its wound, crafted a tiny splint from twigs, and placed it in a cozy nest made of soft cotton.

Days turned into weeks, and the bird began to heal under Cora’s loving care. One morning, the bird flapped its wings joyfully and took flight, singing a melody of gratitude. Cora felt a warm glow in her heart, knowing she had made a difference.

Word of Cora’s kindness spread through the forest, reaching the ears of the wise old owl, Orlin. Seeing Cora’s compassion and knowing of her kindness, Orlin guided her further about the virtue of consideration.

“Consideration,” Orlin explained, “is thinking about others’ needs and feelings before our own. It’s about making choices that bring joy and comfort to others.”

One evening, Orlin led Cora to a hidden clearing deep in the forest. In this magical place, the trees glowed with a gentle light, and the air hummed with the whispers of ancient tales. There, Orlin introduced Cora to the Caring Creatures—mystical beings who dedicated their lives to helping others.

There was Lumi, the gentle deer who guided lost travelers back to their paths; Neri, the playful squirrel who gathered extra nuts for those who couldn’t collect their own; and Bella, the wise tortoise who shared stories of wisdom and kindness with anyone willing to listen.

Cora spent many days listening to and learning from the Caring Creatures. She learned to listen with her heart, to understand the unspoken needs of those around her, and to act with thoughtfulness and empathy.

One day, the village faced a terrible storm. The river swelled, and the strong winds threatened to destroy homes. Remembering what she had learned, Cora quickly gathered the villagers and organized a plan. They built barriers to protect their homes, shared food and warmth, and ensured everyone was safe and cared for.

As the storm passed and the sun broke through the clouds, the village celebrated their survival. They praised Cora for her leadership, but she humbly attributed their success to the virtue of consideration she had learned from the Caring Creatures.

From that day on, the village flourished with a new spirit of togetherness. Cora continued to spread the lessons of consideration, showing that by thinking of others, they could create a world filled with kindness and understanding.

And so, the village thrived, surrounded by the whispering woods, the rolling hills, and the enduring spirit of consideration. Whenever someone needed a reminder of the power of kindness, they would visit the meadow, listen to the tales of the Caring Creatures, and remember the story of Cora and her compassionate heart.

Thus, the virtue of consideration became the guiding light for all who lived in the village, proving that even the smallest act of kindness can create ripples of love and joy.

Family Conversation Starters:

1.   What do you think made Cora decide to help the injured bird, and how did her actions show consideration?

2.  Can you remember the different Caring Creatures Cora met in the forest? What did each one teach her?

3.  How did the Caring Creatures teach Cora about consideration, and can you think of a time when you were considerate like them?

4.  When the storm hit the village, how did Cora use what she learned from the Caring Creatures to help her community?

A Magical Journey Awaits

Cora and the Heart of the Home

Cora Applied Consideration at Home

Cora lived in a cozy cottage with her parents and little brother, Milo, in the same vibrant village nestled between rolling hills and whispering woods. Their home was always filled with laughter, love, and the aroma of delicious meals that Cora’s mother, Elara, cooked with great care.

One chilly autumn morning, as the leaves turned golden and the air grew crisp, Cora noticed her mother seemed tired. Elara worked tirelessly, tending to the house, preparing meals, and caring for the family. Despite her weariness, she never complained and always greeted everyone with a warm smile.

Cora remembered the lessons from Orlin and the Caring Creatures about the virtue of consideration. She decided it was time to practice those lessons in her home.

That evening, after dinner, Cora gathered her family in the cozy living room. “I’ve noticed how hard Mom works every day,” she began. “I think it’s time we show her some extra appreciation and give her a well-deserved break.”

Her father, Aric, nodded in agreement, and Milo’s eyes sparkled with excitement. They all agreed to make the next day a special one for Elara.

Cora woke up early the following morning and quietly slipped into the kitchen. She prepared a breakfast tray with her mother’s favorite foods—freshly baked bread, sweet honey, and a pot of steaming herbal tea. With Milo’s help, they decorated the tray with wildflowers and a hand-drawn card.

As Elara came downstairs, she was greeted by her loving family, who held the breakfast tray. Tears of joy filled her eyes as she realized the thoughtful gesture. “Thank you, my darlings,” she said, her voice choked with emotion. “This means the world to me.”

While Elara enjoyed breakfast in bed, Cora and her family took over the household chores. Aric tended the garden, Milo dusted and tidied up the living room, and Cora tackled the laundry. They worked together with cheerful hearts, humming songs and sharing stories as they went about their tasks.

Later in the day, Cora suggested a family picnic by the stream. They packed a basket with snacks, blankets, and games and set off to their favorite spot. Elara, now fully rested and reenergized, joined them with a heart full of gratitude.

Elara looked at Cora with pride as they sat by the babbling brook, enjoying the beauty of nature and each other’s company. “You’ve truly understood the meaning of consideration, my dear,” she said. “It’s about recognizing the needs of others and acting with kindness and thoughtfulness.”

That evening, as the family gathered around the fireplace, Elara shared stories from her childhood, filled with lessons of love and empathy. Cora listened intently, knowing that the virtue of consideration had brought joy to her mother and strengthened the bond within their family.

From that day on, Cora made it a point to be mindful of her family’s needs and feelings. She noticed when her father had a long day at work and offered to help with dinner. She played games with Milo when he felt lonely and needed a friend. She continued to spread the spirit of consideration, creating a home filled with love, understanding, and mutual care.

And so, in their cozy cottage, nestled between rolling hills and whispering woods, Cora’s family thrived, bound together by the simple yet profound virtue of consideration. Their home became a haven of warmth and compassion, a testament to the power of thinking about others and acting with a kind heart.

Thus, the virtue of consideration strengthened the bonds within Cora’s family and served as a shining example for all who knew them. In their small, loving home, they showed that even the smallest acts of thoughtfulness could create a world of difference.

Family Conversation Starters:

1. Why do you think Cora decided to help her mother when she noticed she was tired?

2. How did Cora and her family show consideration for Elara? What did they do to make her feel appreciated?

3. How did Cora’s actions, inspired by the lessons from the Caring Creatures, bring her family closer together?

4. Can you think of a time when you helped someone in our family? How did it make you feel and how did it make them feel?

5. How can we show consideration to each other in our family every day?

A Magical Journey Awaits

Cora and the Classroom of Consideration

Cora Uses Consideration in the Classroom

Once upon a time, in the vibrant village nestled between rolling hills and whispering woods, there lived a young girl named Cora. Known for her sparkling eyes and a heart full of curiosity, Cora spent her days learning from nature, her family, and the friendly animals of the village.

After a great storm, Cora learned the virtue of consideration from the wise old owl, Orlin, and the Caring Creatures—Lumi the deer, Neri the squirrel, and Bella the tortoise. She applied these lessons at home, making her family’s life warmer and more loving. Now, Cora was ready to spread this virtue beyond her home into her school.

Cora attended the village school, a charming building filled with the laughter and energy of children. Her teacher, Miss Elenor, was kind and patient, but lately, she had seemed a bit overwhelmed. The students often talked out of turn, left their desks untidy, and didn’t always listen during lessons.

One morning, Cora noticed Miss Elenor rubbing her temples, clearly stressed. Remembering the lessons from the Caring Creatures, Cora decided it was time to show consideration in her classroom. She gathered a few classmates during recess to share her ideas.

“Miss Elenor works really hard for us,” Cora said. “I think we should show her some consideration and make our classroom a happier place for everyone.”

Her friends nodded eagerly, excited to help. Together, they came up with a plan to bring consideration into their daily routine. Cora led the way by creating a “Consideration Chart,” where students could write down acts of kindness they had done or witnessed.

The next day, Cora and her friends presented their ideas to the class. “Let’s try to think about others’ feelings and needs,” Cora explained. “We can start by listening when someone is talking, keeping our desks tidy, and helping each other with schoolwork.”

At first, not everyone was enthusiastic, but Cora’s enthusiasm was infectious. Slowly but surely, the atmosphere in the classroom began to change. Students started listening attentively, helping each other with challenging tasks, and keeping their classroom neat and cheerful.

One day, a new student named Ben joined the class. He was shy and felt out of place. Cora remembered how the Caring Creatures always made her feel welcome and included, so she decided to show Ben the same kindness. She introduced herself, invited him to sit with her at lunch, and helped him catch up with the lessons.

Seeing Cora’s example, other students soon followed. They took turns helping Ben, making him feel part of the class. Miss Elenor noticed the change too. With the students being more considerate, she felt less stressed and more able to teach effectively.

To celebrate their progress, Miss Elenor organized a special “Consideration Day.” The students shared stories about how they had helped each other and learned from their acts of kindness. Cora was proud to see how her small idea had blossomed into a caring and supportive classroom environment.

During the celebration, Miss Elenor thanked the class, her eyes shining with gratitude. “You have all shown that by thinking of others, we can create a wonderful place to learn and grow,” she said. “Cora, thank you for reminding us of the importance of consideration.”

Cora felt a warm glow in her heart, knowing she had made a difference. The lessons she had learned from the Caring Creatures had not only helped her family but had also transformed her school into a place where everyone felt valued and supported.

And so, in the vibrant village nestled between rolling hills and whispering woods, Cora’s virtue of consideration continued to spread, creating ripples of kindness and understanding in her school. Her story inspired others, showing that even the smallest acts of thoughtfulness could create a world of difference.

Thus, the wisdom of the forest and the lessons from the Caring Creatures not only brought joy to Cora’s family but also transformed her classroom. By thinking of others and acting with a kind heart, Cora showed that the virtue of consideration could create a nurturing and harmonious environment for everyone.

Family Conversation Starters:

1. Why did Cora decide to bring the virtue of consideration into her classroom? How did she notice that Miss Elenor needed help?

2. What ideas did Cora and her friends come up with to make their classroom happier? How did these ideas help everyone?

3. How did Cora and her classmates help the new student, Ben, feel welcome and included?

4. What changes did Miss Elenor notice in the classroom after the students showed more consideration?

5. Can you think of ways we can show consideration at home and school, just like Cora and her friends did?

Join the Adventure

Get new stories to bring out the best in your children and yourself!

Consideration

Consideration

Description

Consideration is the art of thoughtful awareness. It encompasses the kindness and care we extend to others, recognizing their needs, emotions, and experiences as significant and worthy of our respect. To be considerate means approaching each action, choice, and interaction with gentle mindfulness, understanding that even small acts of kindness can uplift those around us and deepen our connections.

In practice, consideration shows up as a quiet, steady presence. It’s reflected in choosing our words carefully, ensuring they convey support and encouragement, and pausing before acting to consider how our choices might affect others. It involves not only recognizing someone’s preferences but actively seeking ways to meet them, showing that we truly value their comfort and joy.

At its heart, consideration is love in action, woven into the fabric of our daily lives through thoughtful gestures that brighten the world for others.

Affirmations for Consideration

1. I pause and listen fully before I respond.
This practice fosters empathy, allowing others to feel heard and understood before we share our thoughts.

2. I look for small ways to make someone’s day brighter.
Actively seeking to help lifts others’ spirits and reminds us of the impact of small, thoughtful gestures.

3. I consider how my actions affect those around me.
Reflecting on the impact of our actions reminds us to be mindful and respectful in our choices.

4. I choose my words carefully to be kind and respectful.
This helps us build trust and positive connections, ensuring our words uplift rather than harm.

5. I notice and appreciate what others do for me.
Expressing gratitude shows others they are valued, creating a culture of mutual appreciation.

6. I practice patience, allowing others the time they need.
Patience helps us respect each person’s pace and needs, reducing frustration and increasing harmony.

7. I honor others’ preferences and boundaries.
Respecting boundaries demonstrates true consideration, showing others we value their comfort and autonomy.

8. I offer help when I see someone in need.
This practice cultivates a proactive approach to kindness, helping us contribute positively to others’ lives.

9. I make an effort to see things from another’s perspective.
Empathy is at the heart of consideration, deepening our understanding and appreciation for others’ experiences.

10. I give others the benefit of the doubt and assume good intentions.
This helps us approach situations with an open heart, fostering positive relationships and reducing misunderstandings.

Quotes

“Do to others as you would have them do to you.” Luke 6:31, The Bible

“The true meaning of life is to plant trees, under whose shade you do not expect to sit.” Nelson Henderson

“A moment of consideration often prevents a thousand apologies.” Kevin J. Anderson.” Kevin J. Anderson

Consideration In Family Life

Consideration in family life is a conscious and loving awareness of each other’s needs, feelings, and perspectives. It’s practiced by both parents and children in small, everyday gestures, creating a home where each person feels valued, understood, and respected. When families make consideration a central value, they cultivate an atmosphere of empathy, kindness, and support that strengthens their bond and builds a foundation for healthy relationships.

For Parents
Parents can nurture consideration by modeling empathy and attentiveness in their interactions. This can be as simple as listening without interrupting when a child expresses their feelings, or as thoughtful as respecting each child’s unique way of experiencing and understanding the world. By showing genuine interest in their children’s thoughts and preferences, parents demonstrate that each member of the family is seen and heard.

Parents also express consideration by responding with patience and care, even in challenging moments. When a parent calmly and thoughtfully addresses conflicts or sets boundaries, it shows children how to manage emotions while respecting others. This teaches that being considerate doesn’t mean ignoring one’s own needs but finding ways to honor both oneself and others.

For Children
Children can practice consideration by learning to recognize and respect the feelings of others, such as by noticing when a sibling is upset or a parent is busy, and choosing actions that show care and respect for those circumstances. Simple acts like sharing, helping with household tasks, or using kind words go a long way in showing consideration. Parents can guide children to express their needs and preferences in ways that also acknowledge others’ needs.

In Daily Interactions
Consideration in family life flourishes when it’s embedded in daily routines. Mealtime conversations, for example, are a valuable opportunity for each person to share and listen with interest, practicing the art of attentive listening. Family activities, whether it’s chores or game nights, can be planned with input from everyone, ensuring that each member’s preferences are considered and valued.

When families make a habit of checking in with each other—asking how someone’s day was, offering support when someone is stressed, or simply making time for one-on-one connections—they build a culture of consideration that deepens family bonds. These small but meaningful gestures of care remind each person that they belong to a supportive, loving team.

Strengthening Family Bonds
Practicing consideration creates trust and safety, as each member feels understood and appreciated. Children raised in a considerate environment grow up knowing they are valued, and they carry this mindset into their relationships. The mutual respect that results from consistently practicing consideration enriches family life and strengthens the bond between each member, building a lasting foundation of love, respect, and joy that families cherish through all seasons of life.

Balancing Consideration

When balanced, the virtue of consideration creates a nurturing and empathetic environment in family life, where each person’s needs are honored, and thoughtfulness flows naturally between members. However, for consideration to be a positive force without leading to overextending oneself or neglecting one’s own needs, it benefits from the support of complementary virtues that help to moderate it. Here are some balancing virtues that help keep consideration in harmony:

      • Self-Respect
        Self-respect ensures that while we care for others’ needs, we also value and tend to our boundaries and well-being.
      • Discernment
        Discernment helps us thoughtfully assess when and how to offer support, ensuring our consideration is genuinely helpful and not overreaching.
      • Courage
        Courage allows us to speak up when necessary, even if it’s uncomfortable, fostering honesty in our relationships rather than avoiding important discussions out of consideration for others’ feelings.
      • Assertiveness
        Assertiveness encourages us to express our needs clearly and respectfully, balancing our consideration for others and communicating our needs.
      • Patience
        Patience enables us to give others the time and space they need, recognizing that not every situation requires immediate action or intervention.
      • Justice
        Justice helps us maintain fairness by ensuring that all family members’ needs are valued equally, preventing an imbalance in consideration where one person’s needs might dominate.
      • Honesty
        Honesty promotes transparency and encourages sincerity in our words and actions, preventing us from acting out of obligation or guilt.
      • Resilience
        Resilience helps us recognize that while consideration is essential, we must also manage our expectations and accept that we cannot always meet everyone’s needs.

Two other thoughts to keep in mind to maintain a balanced approach to the virtue of consideration:

  • Self-Care
    Self-care reminds us that nurturing our physical, emotional, and mental health strengthens our ability to be genuinely considerate and present for others.
  • Boundaries
    Healthy boundaries allow us to support others without feeling overwhelmed, ensuring we do not overcommit out of a desire to be considerate.

Maintaining a balance of virtues in family life ensures that consideration remains a source of connection and support rather than becoming burdensome. By practicing complementary virtues, parents and children learn to offer thoughtful care to others while valuing their well-being, creating a family dynamic rooted in love, respect, and balanced support.

Joe is a husband, father, grandfather, author, speaker, educator, course creator, and parent/family coach.

He helps parents develop unity, find clarity, communicate, and develop consistency in their parenting with the Four C’s of Successful Families. You can find his work on social media.

In addition, the Four C’s newsletter is enjoyed by many as it encourages parents to self-care, build their relationships with their partners, and raise their children. 

And he loves to golf!