How do you teach a child common sense?

Question

My 10yr. old is very smart as far as books go and researching information, but he has the judgement of a brick in everyday life. exp....I opened a pack of cookies and poured them in a bowl so he and my 2yr. old could share them he goes and opens another pack for himself. I was outraged what would make him think that I would give them a pack a piece to eat. For him to be so smart he does the dumbest stuff, how do I teach this child common sense my parents slapped it into me, not the method I want to go with. Any suggestions?

Answer 1

i don't think your example shows that he is lacking common sense. he isn't a mind reader. how should he know that you didn't get those cookies for just the sister?

children only know what they are taught. just tell him nicely what your intentions were, and why he shouldn have known that. He'll get it too.  sd

Answer 2

First of all, don't lecture. He's ten, and probably wanted attention from you, or at least more cookies.

It seems like you're just upset he went and did something that you didn't want, and you wanted to control every facet of his life. Common sense is NOT mindlessly obeying your "betters"...

Answer 3

the best way to learn by far is always by example. I know its simple and sweet, but its true

Answer 4

A lot of intelligent, booksmart people lack common sense. It's just how their brain works. I would just be more patient and work with him when I could.

Hope this helps!

Answer 5

Role model common sense behavior - which includes clear communication.

For example, if you pour cookies in a bowl for him to share with the two year old, you have to actually TELL him that they are to share.  He cannot read your mind.

Answer 6

I know alot of teenagers who lack common sense as well. Call him out n it. Tell him that not what he sould do and explain what he should have done. Eventually he'll learn. Good luck

Answer 7

teach h im by example

Answer 8

Ask him the most obvious question and let him answer it.And tell him,Also,Mabye he is used to having things for himself.a 10 year old wouldnt be interested in a 2 year olds likings.When you get something for them,tell him its for the 2 of them.He;ll soon learn to adjust.

Answer 9

Communication is the key.  You don't have to give him a 20 minute discourse on any particular topic, rather keep it short and sweet and use all opportunities such as the cookie interaction as an "educational moment" for common sense.

Blessings

Answer 10

Your questions seems like an oxymoron to me. My opinion is that there are simply things people, or children, know and things they don't. Experience is the main thing. Perhaps your ten year old has spent more time reading than most and therefore lacks other non-reading experiences. Don't worry about it too much, and try to laugh it off!