Why is it that so many of us feel worthless? Why is it that so much of the world treats others as worthless? Whatever the reason, let me state something very clear: you…have…worth! God made us to be like him. No other creature is given that gift. So see the good that God sees. Draw... Continue Reading →
God Talk: Awakening Curiosity
Dive into any topic far enough and you’ll get overwhelming feelings. Dive into technical discussions about God and your head will spin! Let’s keep this simple. GOD IS GOD and we are not. When talking about God in your family or with the family of God, don’t turn it into a competition of who knows... Continue Reading →
Kid Talk: Four Ideas for Increased Connection
Speaking with children is a bit of an art. As adults, we spend a lot of time thinking and speaking with our adult vocabulary. Children need simple words, shorter sentences, essential truth and vivid examples. This isn’t too difficult to accomplish, but takes some conscious thought and consistent effort. Just talk. Keep it simple. No... Continue Reading →
Infancy: Building a Strong Foundation
Experience plays a crucial role in “wiring” a young child’s brain. -Judith Graham, Leslie A. Forstadt As you do not know the path of the wind, or how the body is formed in a mother’s womb, so you cannot understand the work of God, the Maker of all things. -Ecclesiastes 11:5 Infancy is a marvel.... Continue Reading →
Hear: Speaking So Children Want to Listen
What would ministry be without conversation? -Katey Hage How can they know who to trust if they haven’t heard of the One who can be trusted? And how can they hear if nobody tells them? -Paul (Romans 10:14) Simply thinking that you believe in, fully trust and devote to Jesus is a strong starting point.... Continue Reading →
Touch: Using Physical Affection for Greater Bonds
…touch is as important to infants and children as eating and sleeping. -Tiffany Field, Touch Research Institute Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man. -Matthew 8:3 When Jesus healed, he often also touched. He gathered children around him and placed his hands on them. He washed his disciples feet. At the most fundamental... Continue Reading →
Jesus Loves You: The Ultimate Message
…this I know, for the Bible tells me so… -Anna Warner and William Bradbury For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son that whoever believes in him will not perish, but have everlasting life. -Jesus (John 3:16) The famous song, called "Jesus Loves Me," was written as a poem by Anna... Continue Reading →
Echo: Using Repetition for Greater Impact
Words matter. Meaningful words echoed remain. You want your words to last and to leave an impression. As you engage children, take the time to craft key words you want to remain in their hearts and repeat them.
Pray
We can wish. We can manipulate. We can modify behaviour. But we want better than that. We want God. We need God. God is our Creator and Sustainer and Transformer. Let's pray for our children.
Separation Anxiety
Watching your child become anxious when he is left with "strangers" is difficult for both you and your child. Yet doing so (as described below) matters for helping your child navigate the difficult world filled with anxiety at every turn. God doesn't want us to be anxious and he wants parents to provide opportunities to trust. Trust... Continue Reading →