Why We Do This
Character Building 101 is a division of Special Ideas Inc., which has been producing materials dedicated to making the world a better place since 1981. We started by producing materials about peace, racial harmony, religious unity and equality of women and men. We developed a loyal band of customers who often recommended products that they felt were needed. Over time, this led us to focus more and more on personal development, promoting positive change and building a better world, starting from within. That’s why we offer a wide range of products, including books, games, decorations, and activities, that help to instill the values of virtue in both adults and children. Our aim is to help you and your loved ones lead happier and healthier lives.
CharacterBuilding101.com showcases classroom safe products for homes and institutions. Whether you’re looking to become a more well-rounded individual, or you want your children to grow up with traits like enthusiasm, bravery, and compassion, we have the right products to suit your needs. With over 40 years of experience in helping people bring out the best in themselves, we’re confident in our ability to make a positive impact on your life.
Normally, we are here Monday – Friday 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM EST to talk with you. We’re closed on holidays and weekends.
Personal History
With a passion for education and a desire to make a positive impact on the world, I embarked on a journey to obtain a PhD in Instructional Systems Technology from the Indiana University School of Education. My research focused on the effectiveness of character education programs in public schools, which ultimately inspired a shift in the focus of our family business.
As a mother of five, I decided to join forces with my husband, who had dedicated his life to creating inspiring materials aimed at making the world a better place. With my expertise in technology and his passion for character building, we were able to take his business to new heights. Today, our company offers a wide range of products, including books, games, decorations, and activities, that help to instill the values of virtue in individuals of all ages.
Through CharacterBuilding101.com, we hope to bring our products to a wider audience and continue to inspire positive change and personal growth.
Philosophy
At CharacterBuilding101, we believe that emotions and virtues are closely intertwined. That’s why we offer a range of products that introduce people of all ages to the language of virtues, helping them to understand and regulate their emotions in a healthier way.
Our products aim to dispel the myth that practicing virtues is rigid, self-sacrificing, or dull. On the contrary, we believe that developing good character leads to greater joy, creativity, and community-building. The names of the virtues often reflect the emotions they evoke: Joy, Patience, Gratitude and Kindness. Practicing virtues feels good. From ABC Virtue Refrigerator Magnets for kids to Character Coins for adults, we want the words that describe your emotional environment to be as well known to you as the colors of your crayons or the letters of the alphabet.
When you teach the language of virtues, you empower your child’s emotional intelligence. As children learn the vocabulary of virtues and the language of emotions, they gain a deeper understanding of not only their own emotions but also the emotions of others. By practicing these virtues, individuals can not only build better character but also cultivate positive emotions. This foundation in emotional intelligence will serve them well throughout their lives, enabling them to navigate the ups and downs of life with greater ease and resilience.
How You Can Help
We are always open to ideas for new products. Do you have an idea that would make character education easy? What do you wish you had to help you make teaching character or practicing virtues easier? Please send us your thoughts and tell us know how you are using our products to expand your virtue vocabulary.
Finally, even if you don’t purchase a thing, thank you for visiting this page and for your interest in making the world a little better. Please consider signing up for our newsletter at the bottom of each page. We promise not to send you too much – just new product announcements and character education ideas.
Normally, we are here Monday – Friday 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM EST to talk with you. We’re closed on holidays and weekends.
If you have a need, suggestion or question, I very much want to hear from you. – Dr. Karen Saint