This is written for parents to read, for kids to understand.

This book is a simplified, child-friendly version of
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.

The ideas are the same.
The language is gentler.
The examples come from a child’s daily life.

Each habit includes:

• What the habit means (original idea)

• How a child can understand it

• A simple activity to practice it

  
  

  Habit 1: Be Proactive → “I Choose My Actions”

  Original idea:
  We are responsible for our choices and reactions.

  For kids:
  Even when things go wrong, you can choose what to do next.

  You can’t control everything.
  But you can control your behavior.

  Kid example:
  If someone teases you, you can choose to shout — or walk away.

  To-Do Activity

  Ask your child:

  • “What could you choose differently next time?”
    Let them answer in their own words.

  ---

  Habit 2: Begin With the End in Mind → “Know What You Want First”

  Original idea:
  Start with a clear goal.

  For kids:
  Before you start something, think about how you want it to finish.

  Kid example:
  Before starting homework, imagine finishing it calmly and feeling proud.

  To-Do Activity

  Ask your child to draw:

  • How they want their day or task to end

  ---

  Habit 3: Put First Things First → “Important Before Fun”

  Original idea:
  Do important tasks before distractions.

  For kids:
  Some things need to be done before playtime.

  Kid example:
  Homework before TV.
  Cleaning up before games.

  To-Do Activity

  Together, list:

  • 1 important thing

  • 1 fun thing
    Do the important one first.

  ---

  Habit 4: Think Win-Win → “Everyone Can Be Happy”

  Original idea:
  Look for solutions where everyone benefits.

  For kids:
  You don’t always have to win alone.

  Kid example:
  Sharing toys so both friends enjoy playing.

  To-Do Activity

  Ask:

  • “How can both people feel happy here?”

  ---

  Habit 5: Seek First to Understand → “Listen First”

  Original idea:
  Understand before being understood.

  For kids:
  Listen fully before speaking.

  Kid example:
  Letting a friend finish talking before replying.

  To-Do Activity

  Practice:

  • One minute of silent listening

  • Then repeat what the other person said

  ---

  Habit 6: Synergize → “Together Is Better”

  Original idea:
  Teamwork creates better results.

  For kids:
  Working together helps everyone do better.

  Kid example:
  Building something with siblings or friends.

  To-Do Activity

  Do one task together and talk about:

  • What was easier together?

  ---

  Habit 7: Sharpen the Saw → “Take Care of Yourself”

  Original idea:
  Renew your energy.

  For kids:
  Rest, play, learn, and talk about feelings.

  Kid example:
  Sleeping well, playing outside, reading, talking to parents.

  To-Do Activity

  Create a simple routine:

  • Sleep

  • Play

  • Learn

  • Talk

    
    

    Download the attached  printable PDF journal to turn these lessons into daily habits for your child