Connecting Acton with The 7 Habits of Happy Kids by Sean Covey
As I read Sean Covey’s “The 7 Habits of Happy Kids”, I was struck by how similar our approach is at Acton Academy. The post details some of the things we do that align with what Covey has detailed in his book.
Habit 1: Be Proactive - Covey emphasizes the importance of taking responsibility for one's actions and happiness. By empowering children to recognize their ability to control their own lives - including their own entertainment - they learn to navigate challenges with confidence.
At Acton, we believe in empowering learners to take charge of their own learning journey. Like Covey's emphasis on being proactive, we encourage learners to recognize their ability to shape their educational experiences. Through self-directed projects, goal-setting, and reflection, learners learn to take responsibility for their academic progress and personal growth.
Sometimes our Eagles will say, “Why do we have to go to this park? We always vote for this park. It’s boring.”
I almost never try to solve it for them. I usually say something like “You have the power to get others to vote differently tomorrow. For now, what would you like to do?”
Habit 2: Begin with the End in Mind - Having a vision and setting goals are key components of success. Covey illustrates this habit through stories that encourage children to plan ahead and consider the consequences of their actions.
At Acton, we emphasize goal-oriented learning. Our Eagles set weekly and daily goals and are encouraged to envision their long-term objectives and then develop actionable plans to achieve them. By setting clear goals and regularly reflecting on their progress, our young heroes develop a sense of purpose and direction in their educational journey.
In addition, each session, the Quest starts with a discussion about what Exhibition can look like - baking show, dream school, etc.
The end goals help Eagles plan and prepare for the Quest project.
Habit 3: Put First Things First - Prioritizing tasks and responsibilities is essential for productivity and achievement. Covey emphasizes that children (and adults!) should focus on what matters most and develop the discipline to complete important tasks before indulging in leisure activities.
At Acton, our Eagles - through a lot of practice and project management - learn to prioritize tasks based on their importance and urgency. Through time management exercises and project-based learning, learners learn to distinguish between essential tasks and distractions, enabling them to focus on what matters most for their academic and personal development.
Habit 4: Think Win-Win - Teaching children the value of cooperation and empathy is vital for healthy relationships. Covey encourages a mindset of mutual benefit, where both parties strive for positive outcomes in conflicts and negotiations.
At Acton, we foster a collaborative learning environment where learners support each other's success. We believe in the power of collaboration and teamwork. Through peer-to-peer feedback, group projects, and collaborative problem-solving activities, learners learn to work together to achieve shared goals and celebrate each other's achievements. One joyous celebration we have is our Dragon Slaying ceremony where Eagles celebrate the academic excellence our Eagles achieve.
Our Eagles must also regularly overcome conflict when it comes to projects. With so many decisions, conflicts are bound to happen - how do you become better at managing conflicts? Practice, practice, practice collaborating together.
Habit 5: Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood - Effective communication is built on active listening and empathy. Covey stresses the importance of understanding others' perspectives before expressing oneself, fostering deeper connections and resolving conflicts peacefully.
Effective communication is fundamental to success at Acton Columbus. Our Eagles learn to listen actively, empathize with others' perspectives, and regularly practice communicating their ideas clearly. Through Socratic discussions, debates, and presentations, learners hone their communication skills and learn to engage in meaningful dialogue with their peers.
Habit 6: Synergize - Collaboration and teamwork are essential skills in today's interconnected world. Covey illustrates the power of synergy, where individuals leverage their unique strengths to achieve greater results collectively.
At Acton, in order to complete team projects, our Eagles must leverage their collective strengths. Through collaborative projects, interdisciplinary learning experiences, and peer mentoring, learners learn to appreciate and leverage each other's unique talents and perspectives.
Habit 7: Sharpen the Saw - Maintaining balance and well-being is key to long-term happiness. Covey encourages children to nurture their physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual health, ensuring they have the energy and resilience to face life's challenges.
At Acton, through mindfulness practices, daily outdoor time, creative expression, and reflective exercises, our Eagles maintain a healthy balance in all aspects of their lives.
In alignment with Covey’s The 7 Habits of Happy Kids, we work to equip our Eagles with essential life skills that will empower them to thrive academically and personally.