THREE PRINCIPLES

Don Bosco developed a method of education, the "Preventive System" which became a beacon that would guide the youth of his day and lead them to a successful life.  Today, over forty thousand committed followers, and interested persons use this method to achieve the stated goal of Don Bosco: "to create good Christians and useful citizens."

REASON
It is most reasonable to reach "civil, moral, and intellectual" fulfillment as a human person through a life of faith.

    The first dimension of this methodology focuses on the concept of reason.  It not only challenges the educator to embrace fulfillment through a life of faith but it also requires that the educator be reasonable when interacting with the young.  It is essential to acquire the ability to know and understand the human dynamics of young people and to be able to communicate and dialogue with them. 
    The reasonable style of education brings meaning and purpose to the roles of parents and educators.  Their efforts become more creative and interactive.  A healthier rapport develops and becomes a dynamic constructive force in education.  John Bosco would say  "Students my not only be loved, they must know that they are loved. This he achieved by making himself available, taking a keen interest in their studies, work, sports, clubs, and in all their activities while noticing a change in behavior patterns or withdrawal symptoms.  Body language does not escape parents and educators who are attentive.  We cannot underestimate the need for spending quantities of quality time with the young.

RELIGION
Live according to the TRUTH entrusted to the Church.  The young, through example, will be afforded diverse opportunities to develop an informed conscience, act responsibly, and embrace their sacramental liturgical life, in becoming responsible partners in social living.

    The second element of this educational method is Religion built upon the Gospel of love and the Beatitudes.  It is the ground where personal accountability for one's actions is encouraged and fostered.  There is a significant difference between acting in good conscience and acting from an informed conscience.  Genuine formation is found in the official guidance of the Church and consistent involvement in a believing faith community.  To study and live according to these truths is an invitation to prayer and grace that comes from embracing a sacramental liturgical life and devotion to Mary and the saints as role models for true discipleship.
    Don Bosco insisted that individual responsible involvement was the road to be traveled if one was serious about helping to improve the society and build Christian communities.  Emphasis on personal accountability in fulfilling one's duties and obligations was an essential part of John Bosco's efforts to build character.  By constant and kindly insistence on fidelity to one's routine obligations and acceptance of ones circumstances, Don Bosco was preparing his youngsters to find their place in society and to become morally productive citizens.

LOVING KINDNESS
Reach the hearts of youth through demonstrating that one is genuinely concerned with their welfare.  With confidence in the transforming power of love, one must foster "heart-to-heart" communication and affirm them in their struggle to grow and mature.

    The foundational principle that Don Bosco chose for his approach to help the young to mature and to find their place in society was CHARITY which he expressed by the words LOVING KINDNESS.  To quote his own words "the practice of this system is wholly based on the words of St. Paul: 'Love is patient and kind. It bears all things, hopes all things, endures all things.'" This basic virtue was the foundation of all his efforts; it was the mainspring of all his actions on behalf of youth.
    Scattered throughout the writings of his nineteenth century educator we find expressions such as these: "Education is a matter of the heart, friendly counsels which appeal to the heart of the young and win over the heart, the educator will speak in the language of the heart.  I will do all I can if only I will win over the hearts of the young. After winning the heart of a pupil, the educator can exercise great influence over that person.  Let us make ourselves loved, and we shall possess their hearts."