Penance

As your child is preparing to receive the sacrament of Penance, they are actively and formally working on the formation of their conscience. Developmentally they are ready to discern right from wrong, empathize, feel remorse, and show self control. But these thinking skills must be introduced, processed, and then consistently reinforced. Setting limits, using natural consequences, modeling good speech and behavior, building self esteem, investing quality time in family, praying together, and often receiving the sacraments of Penance and the Holy Eucharist are all excellent ways to facilitate the formation of character and conscience.

Think about each of these areas - celebrate where you are excelling, and plan for improvement in those that fall short. Spiritual growth is a lifelong process. Just look for progress, not perfection, and you will continually get to a better place.