The school also has a micro-society program that teaches children autonomy and responsibility. Sports also give kids structure, discipline and a sense of belonging, Fightmaster said. But if kids don't know the rules for social acceptance, they're also in a bad place, Gordon notes. Many parents don't spend time with kids or don't teach them what they need to know to get along with others. I see fighting all the time and that creates an even bigger problem.
Character education can only go so far.