Ethical Dilemma Journaling

Journaling about ethical experiences develops reflection skills and tracks moral reasoning development.

• Framework: EYFS
• Unit: EYFS Champions of Character
• Learning area: Communication and Language
• Level: EYFS Reception

Objectives

• Document ethical dilemmas encountered
• Analyse decision-making process
• Track ethical growth over time

Materials

• Dilemma journals
• Analysis prompts
• Growth tracking tools

Instructions

Introduce dilemma journals: personal records of ethical situations encountered. When facing dilemmas, write: What happened? What were my choices? How did I decide? What happened after? What would I do differently? Review journals periodically to notice patterns and growth. Share (voluntarily) dilemma processing with trusted peers.

Educator tip

Journals should be private unless children choose to share. Create a safe, non-judgmental space for ethical reflection.

Assessment

Assess against Early Learning Goals (ELGs). Document evidence of 'expected' or 'exceeding' descriptors. Note: independent application of skills, ability to explain reasoning, and capacity to build on prior learning. Observe journal consistency, analysis quality, and evidence of reflection impacting future decisions.

More from EYFS Champions of Character

• Conflict Transformation
• Personal Manifesto Creation
• Restorative Circles
• Growth Portfolio Assembly
• Peer Teaching
• Future Self Letter
• Character Ambassador Programme
• Character Graduation