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Subject Line: Identity Matters: Building What Matters in Our Kids

Dear Parents,

When it comes to the things you are trying to teach your kids, what rises to the top of your mind? We know you might be in the middle of helping them learn how to tie their shoes and do their homework, or maybe you’re still in the potty-training phase. There is so much that we want them to learn and understand, and it can be exhausting. In the grand scheme of life, there may be one thing they need to embrace that has the potential to lead the way in every area of their life. That’s their identity.

So many kids are struggling to figure out their identity as they grow up. They tend to move from one identity to another depending on what season they are in, who they are around, and what is influencing them. In reality, there is only one identity that can sustain them for the long haul, and that’s an identity that is rooted in their relationship with God. If they can land on believing that they are first and foremost a child of God and learn to live from that truth, life may not always be easy, but they will be able to face whatever comes their way.

This month, we want to give you some practical tools that will help you point your children to a true identity in Christ. There are things you can do as a parent that will point them away from the worldly identities that will tempt them and lead them to rest in who they are in God’s eyes. Take a few minutes to check out our Online Parenting Class and think through what else you can do to lead your kids to a deeper understanding of who they are. This month we also have a great Parent Toolbox Resource that will give you a practical way to remind your child in a practical way who they are in Christ. You can use these 30 Lunchbox Notes to encourage your child in their journey of life and faith and reinforce their true identity.

To watch this month’s video or download the Toolbox Resource, click on the links below.

[ INSERT LINK TO ONLINE PARENTING CLASS VIDEO ]

[ INSERT LINK TO TOOLBOX RESOURCE ]

Cheering you on!

[INSERT LEADER’S SIGNATURE HERE]

EMAIL 2

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Subject Line: Identity Matters

Dear Parents,

When experts and researchers talk about what is happening in this generation, they always go back to one critical issue and conversation. Yes, things like technology and screen time are hot topics for sure, but the real issue underneath that conversation revolves around the building of identity. Our kids are being shaped and molded in so many ways, and they are struggling to figure out who they really are. Their peers, interactions at school, and so many parts of the world are pushing them to embrace lots of different identities. As followers of Jesus, we want to point them to the only identity that is worth living for and the one that will sustain them for life – an identity in Christ.

We want to help you point your children to Jesus and help them continue to build their identity as a child of God. Don’t forget that we have a great Parent Toolbox Resource this month that will give you a practical way to remind your child who they are in Christ. This month, we also want to provide you with an article titled “Who Does God Say I Am?” that will challenge you to think about how you see yourself as you seek to lead your family. If you haven’t yet watched our Online Parenting Class, we would encourage you to do so as you think through this important topic.

[ INSERT LINK TO M2P PARENTING BLOG ARTICLE ]

[ INSERT LINK TO M2P ONLINE PARENTING CLASS VIDEO ]

[ INSERT LINK TO TOOLBOX RESOURCE ]

We are in this together! Let us know if there is ever anything we can do for you or your family.

Praying for you as you lead at home,

[INSERT LEADER’S SIGNATURE HERE]

M2P KIDS April Parent Video Script
Guiding and Shaping Our Kids’ Identity

One of the joys of parenthood is watching our kids’ individual personalities emerge. In their very early days, we see hints of who these little people will be as they begin to explore the world around them. They take in all kinds of information to help them discover who they are apart from mom and dad. As parents, we are positioned by God to take an active role in influencing our children’s identity development. We have the incredible opportunity to guide them in discovering who they truly are in the eyes of God – created in His image, filled with a purpose, and perfectly loved by Him.

We are raising our kids in a world that wants them to believe that who they are is defined by their appearance, their possessions, and their accomplishments. This has been true in previous generations; however, the increased connection to all types of media constantly pushes these messages before our kids. Additionally, we fight an even bigger battle as God’s truth about gender and sexuality is challenged. Now, more than ever, we have to be diligent in teaching our kids what God says about who they are.

In Genesis 1:27, we read this life-giving truth, “So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.” This verse tells us that each person is uniquely created in the image of God, with inherent value and purpose – no mistakes and no confusion. Our kids need to learn that they were intentionally crafted by a loving Creator to reflect His character to the world around them.

Psalm 139 beautifully describes how intimately God knows each one of us. It says, “For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb.” This reminds us that God knows every detail of our children. They are fearfully and wonderfully made, and He has a plan for their lives.

1 John 3:1 declares, “See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!” Our identity as children of God is rooted in His unconditional love for us. This is the most important truth our kids can ever grasp – they are deeply loved by their Heavenly Father, no matter what.

So, how can we, as parents, help guide our children’s identity development in light of these truths? It starts with communication. We need to communicate consistently and often to our kids that they are safe and loved, just as they are. We can do this through our words, actions, and attitudes.

Affirm your kids by pointing out godly characteristics you see in their lives. When they demonstrate things like love, kindness, and compassion toward others, let them know. Teach them that these qualities come from the Lord to help show people what He’s like. When your children make mistakes or face challenges, reassure them that their worth isn’t based on their performance. You can remind them of God’s grace and forgiveness, reminding them that they are valued not because of what they do, but because of who they are in Christ.

You can also model healthy self-esteem and confidence that comes from Jesus by embracing your own identity as a child of God. As much as your kids are deeply loved and purposefully created by the Lord, so are you. Your worth is not tied to your appearance, job, possessions, or accomplishments. You were created by Him and for Him. When your kids see you living out your faith with authenticity and joy, it creates a powerful example for them to follow.

And finally, pray for and with your children regularly, asking God to reveal His unquestionable truth to them and to guide them as they learn who they are as part of His family. Ask Him to help them understand His abundant love as the One who knows them better than anyone else and desires for them to live fully as the unique individuals He created them to be.

Remind your children daily of God’s love and the purpose He has for their lives. Trust in His goodness and faithfulness as you intentionally walk alongside them to help lay a firm foundation of truth about who and whose they are.

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Subject Line: Leading the Way in The Digital World

Dear Parents,

As we all move through life, there is no doubt that we live in an increasingly predominant digital world. We rely on technology and our devices for so many things, and our kids are quickly getting reeled into this space. If we’re not careful, we can settle into patterns and rhythms that are unhealthy and allow our kids to do the same. Sure, the technology we have can be helpful and enhance our lives in big ways. It can also lead us and our kids to some dark places we never intended to go. If we want four our family to have healthy habits and perspectives, we need to be proactive in our approach to this area of life.

This month, we encourage you to carefully consider how you are allowing your kids to wade into the digital waters of today. Our Online Parenting Class will both encourage and challenge you as you seek to discern how to deal with the wave of technology that we seemingly cannot avoid. There are certain decisions you can make now that will help your kids get on the right track when it comes to how they view and interact with devices. It’s not always an easy road to travel, but you must create boundaries and pay close attention to what your kids are exposed to. There is so much formation going on in their little brains, and you need to understand how to help them develop in the healthiest way possible.

To watch this month’s Online Parenting Class video, click the link below.

[ INSERT LINK TO ONLINE PARENTING CLASS VIDEO ]

You can do this! We are always here for you if you need us.

Cheering you on,

[ INSERT LEADER’S SIGNATURE HERE ]

EMAIL 2

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Subject Line: Technology, Social Media, and A Big Question

Dear Parents,

There is no doubt that the technology we use in the world today does a lot for us. It helps us be more efficient, it keeps our lives relatively straight, and it offers us a lot of entertainment options. It answers a lot of questions and solves a lot of our problems. On the other hand, it also creates some issues and questions that we need to face, especially when it comes to how our kids are interacting with and being influenced by it all.

This month, we want to provide you with some extra resources that will help you ask the questions you need to ask and take the time to discern how your family should navigate it all. We can easily slide into what feels normal or what everyone else is doing without taking the time to evaluate what might be best for our kids in the long run. This month’s Online Parenting Class could be a helpful tool for you as you think about this area of life.

Our Parent Toolbox Resource is another short video that deals with one of the biggest questions that parents are asking today when it comes to technology. “When should I let my kid on social media?” It’s a difficult question with no clear answer and lots of layers. Our friend Brian Houseman from 360 Family offers a practical suggestion that will give you a lot to think about.

Also, check out “Technology and Your Family: Establishing Healthy Boundaries.” This is an article that will put some handles around how you can lead your kids in their use of technology. Oh, and if you haven’t watched this month’s Online Parent Video, you can still access it.

To read the blog article or watch the video, click on the links below.

[ INSERT LINK TO M2P PARENTING BLOG ARTICLE ]

[ INSERT LINK TO M2P ONLINE PARENTING CLASS VIDEO ]

We are in this together! Let us know if there is ever anything we can do for you or your family.

Praying for you as you lead at home,

[INSERT LEADER’S SIGNATURE HERE]

M2P March KIDS Parent Video Script

As I work with parents at both my church and at other churches, there seems to be one topic that they have a lot of questions about and are not quite sure how to navigate. I can remember trying to figure out what to think and what to do with technology, devices, phones, and social media. Now, for some of you, having to deal with big issues around this topic may be a few years away, but all of us can agree that our kids are growing up in a digital ag,e and there is no going back. I’ve seen a lot of parents just kind of slide their kids into different parts of the digital world with little or no thought about it. It probably took my wife and I a few years to really sit down and think through how we were going to handle it all as a family. I can remember what a game changer it was for us when our firstborn learned how to turn on the TV himself in the morning so we could grab an extra hour or so of sleep. But, at some point, as this digital andevice-filleded wave was coming at our kids, we made some intentional decisions that we thought were best for our kids. I would encourage you to do the same. Don’t fall into the trap of letting your kids go into this world without thinking about it and knowing what the consequences of your decisions might be.

Usually, in videos like this, I say that I want to encourage you as a parent to do a few things. Today, I want to use some stronger language, and I actually want to challenge you. Now, I don’t know you, and you don’t know me, but please believe that I want for your family to be healthy in every way it can, and my challenges come from that place.

Challenge #1 is this.

Make decisions about things in this area when your kids are young, and stick to your decisions. You need to make decisions about things like how much screen time can your kids have, when will they get their own device, how much time do they get on that device, can that device live in their room, and I’m sure a list of other things that you can figure out. Be intentional about how you want your kids to live in this digital world and stick to your boundaries. We decided our kids were not going to get phones until they were in HS, and we told our kids that at an early age. So, when all their friends were getting phones in middle school (and some in elementary school), guess what we didn’t fight about in our house? When they were going to get a phone. We had daily limits on their screen time, and we never let their devices stay overnight in their rooms, a practice we continued through most of high school, by the way. And you know what? Our kids have come back, and they have thanked us for the fact that they didn’t have to go through a lot of the drama that a device brings at a time when they were not emotionally equipped to deal with it. I believe that on a lot of these decisions, the longer you wait, the better, and the less time your kids have on these devices, is better.

Challenge #2

Walk away from your device. Put down the phone. Model having healthy digital habits and give your kids the time and attention they need without having to check your device every so often. Our kids are smart, and they know when we are only giving them partial attention. When our kids were young, there was a night when I was waiting on a message that I thought was important. We were having dinner, and my phone was on the counter across the room. And when the notification came in, and I went over to check it, my son referenced a phrase he had heard and said, “Dad, device-free dinner?” Step away from the phone, give yourself some time to be alone with your own thoughts, and give your family the attention they need.

And here’s challenge #3 – and this might be the hardest one … this is the one where you say, “Who are you to say that to me?” Sorry.

Please don’t let technology take the place of your parenting, and don’t look at it as a way to make life easier for you. I get it; parenting is hard and exhausting, and our kids require a lot of attention. But here’s the thing … like I mentioned a moment ago, our kids need a lot of our attention. Sure, there are times when parents just need a break, and I’ve been there, but maybe instead of handing your kid a phone or a tablet when you’re at dinner in a restaurant, you have a conversation, and you talk about what you see in the restaurant if they’re young or you talk about how school is going or their favorite sport or literally ANYTHING! Build the habit of just talking and having conversations so that when your kids get older, they’ll be used to talking and having conversations. I promise you want to be the primary entity that interacts with your children, not some screen or device. Don’t fall into the trap of thinking they need a phone so they can text you when it’s time for you to come get them from an event or practice. Maybe be OK with sitting in the parking lot for a few minutes or teach them to be OK with having to wait until you get there. Sure, if everyone has a phone life might be more efficient, but I would ask, “At what cost?” What’s the cost to their mental and emotional development, and what’s the cost to your family interaction?

I beg you. When it comes to how your family navigates technology, devices, screen time, and everything that comes with living in a digital world, do your research, make wise choices, not easy ones. And lead your kids into a healthy perspective and healthy habits in this area of life. Don’t just slide into what feels “normal” and what seems efficient. Embrace what’s best and lead your family there.

EMAIL 1

Subject Line: Getting the Help You Need as a Parent

Dear Parents,

Do you ever have one of those days when everything you do as a parent seems to push someone in your home over the edge or just plain make you crazy? It happens. Things begin to go down the wrong path, and you are not quite sure where to turn or what to do. You often need a moment to collect yourself and attempt to get it all together. You also need some direction, help, or ideas that will lead you to a different result.

This month’s Online Parenting Class will encourage you to make sure that you are taking the time to find the resources you need to grow as a parent and give you some ideas about where you can look. There is so much out there that can help you gain knowledge, shift your perspective, or simply give you encouragement as you walk down this parenting road. Ask yourself, “Am I taking advantage of the parenting resources that are out there to help me lead my family well?” Know that we are here to help, and we can point you to some of the resources you need. Don’t hesitate to reach out and let us know what you need or how we can be praying for you and your family.

You likely know this, but as a parent, you play a significant role in the spiritual health, growth, and development of your children. Actually, according to the Bible, you are the primary spiritual leader for your kids. Hearing that may have made you cringe a little or make your hands start to sweat, but the truth is that you are perfectly positioned to be the best spiritual leader your kids could ever have. It’s God’s design.

One way to encourage spiritual growth in your children is to model a strong and consistent faith yourself. Your kids are watching you lead by example as they try to decipher what following Jesus actually looks like. That’s why it’s important for you to spiritually lead them by example. In fact, this month, we are providing you with a Parent Toolbox Resource that will help you do just that. Discipleship Starts At Home: Romans is a resource designed to help you lead your child through a book of the Bible and have spiritual conversations as a family. This study is all done for you and is simple to use. It includes:

▪ Book Summary that comes complete with descriptions of the setting, overview, and theme of Romans.

▪ Daily Reading Plan that breaks each of the 16 chapters of Romans down chapter by chapter into seven themes.

▪ Family Journal sheets help guide the reader’s thoughts through each chapter. Every journal sheet corresponds with a chapter in Romans and provides space to write (or draw), share favorite words, and more. This section creates opportunities for spiritual conversations over dinner, at night before they go to bed, in the car, or anytime the opportunity arises.

To watch this month’s Online Parenting Class video, click the link below.

[ INSERT LINK TO ONLINE PARENTING CLASS VIDEO ]

Cheering you on!

[INSERT LEADER’S SIGNATURE HERE]

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Subject Line: Learning and Growing as a Parent

Dear Parents,

Have you ever heard the phrase “leaders are learners?” If not, you have likely heard some version of it. We all know that we have to learn more about the things we are involved with if we are going to hone our craft and get better. We go to conferences, listen to podcasts, and read books that help us in our careers or hobbies. We want to get better, and we take the time to grow and learn.

And those of us who lead at church know that one of the things you want to get better at is parenting. Not only do you want to be a good parent, but you want to be a great parent. It’s the most important role you have, and it’s a big job. Your kids need you, and you need help in order to be the best version of you as you lead and guide them. As you move through life and attempt to learn and grow as a parent, there are lots of resources that can help you along the way. There are books, articles, online classes, and groups you can join. We want to help point you to the resources and help you need to be the parent God has called you to be.

If you haven’t watched this month’s Online Parenting Class Video, you still have time. It will help you think deeper about how you can learn and grow as a parent and point you in a direction you can go to find the help you need. We also have an online article called “Ages & Stages- What To Expect As Your Child Grows” and exercises you can do at home (like this month’s Parent Toolbox Resource, Discipleship Starts At Home: Romans) to help you create the parenting rhythm you need to continue growing and learning. Make sure you are taking advantage of the resources that are available to you, and know that we are always here to help. To read the blog article or watch the video, click on the links below.

[ INSERT LINK TO M2P PARENTING BLOG ARTICLE ]

[ INSERT LINK TO M2P ONLINE PARENTING CLASS VIDEO ]

We are in this together! Let us know if there is ever anything we can do for you or your family.

Praying for you as you lead at home,

[INSERT LEADER’S SIGNATURE HERE]

M2P February KIDS Parent Video Script

I don’t know if this was true for you, but I remember when our first child was born bringing him home and having no idea what to do. There was even this moment a few hours after we got home when his face went blue, it seemed like he couldn’t breathe, and my wife and I were really freaking out. Then, once he did his business in his diaper …  all was well, and he actually gave us a smile. If I’m honest, I often haven’t known what to do along my parenting journey, and I’ve needed help. I bet you can relate.

As parents, we all want to be good at parenting. We want to love our kids well and give them the best possible opportunity to be successful in the world. We want them to be healthy physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. And in order to do that, we need to always be learning and growing ourselves, giving us the best possible opportunity to be the parents God has called us to be. Over the years, I have heard people say that “leaders are learners,” and I think we would all agree with that. We all know that in our careers or even in our hobbies, we need to be learning in order to be successful. I would argue that the same is true in our parenting. And I might argue that continuing to learn as a parent is one of the most important things you can do. Here’s why: Sometimes you can learn something about something, and you know what you need to know and what you need to do. That often occurs when the environment around the thing you are doing never changes. I’ve learned how to make sourdough bread, and I do the same thing every time, and I get the same results every time, and that’s because nothing around the process ever changes.

But when it comes to our kids and raising them, everything is changing all the time. First and foremost, they are changing. Literally every day, they are changing. Their body is changing, their mind is changing, their emotions are ever-changing, and the kid you are parenting today isn’t the kid you were parenting yesterday or the kid you will parent tomorrow. And then there’s the culture they are living in that is ever-changing, They are around different people each day, they are in different situations each day, and they are being influenced by different things all the time.

So, as parents, we need to be students of our children and students of the culture they are in, and we need to find resources to help us learn and grow. I’m not sure the “I hope we figure it out along the way” approach is a good one.

One of the best resources we can have as parents is other people who are walking with us along our journey. These could be friends from church or wise family members. We need people in our lives to bounce ideas off and encourage us along the way. Connecting with fellow Christian parents in community groups or churches can be a source of tremendous support. Sharing experiences, seeking advice, and praying together can create a network that uplifts and strengthens us in our parenting journey.

There is also an abundance of materials available. Christian parenting books can offer guidance on navigating various challenges, help you learn how to foster a nurturing environment in your home and give you practical ways to instill biblical principles in your family. Take some time to find a book that speaks to the specifics of what’s going on in your family and read it. Short articles can encourage us and give us regular insight as we seek to lead our teens, so create a rhythm of finding articles or blog posts to read regularly. Online platforms and courses tailored for Christian parents provide a convenient way to deepen our understanding of parenting through a spiritual lens. Engaging with these resources can equip us with the knowledge and tools we need to navigate the complexities of raising kids in today’s world while staying true to our Christian beliefs. I know your church wants to help you have the resources you need, so continue to be on the lookout for both what they provide and take the time to find things on your own.

So, as we continue to walk down this Christian parenting path, I would encourage you to actively seek out resources that align with your Christian values, remembering that growing as parents not only is a personal benefit to us but it’s also a gift we give to our children. When we take advantage of all the tools at our disposal, and we become better parents, it has a tremendous impact on our family, and the faith and lessons we pass on could make a difference for generations. Together, let’s embrace the opportunity to continually learn, grow, and deepen our faith and our parenting skills as we navigate the role God has given us to lead our kids.

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Subject Line: Finding Rest

Dear Parents,

In the frantic pace of our daily lives, it’s too easy for us all to get caught up in an unhealthy pattern where we sacrifice so many things that can lead us to a fulfilling life. Can you relate? My guess is the busy schedules that run your life leave little time for true rest, reflection, and time to connect with those you love the most. If we want to live our lives in a way that doesn’t lead us to exhaustion, we need to figure out how to better prioritize things that will foster a healthier pace of life.

This month’s Online Parenting Class highlights the importance of slowing down and drawing inspiration from Scripture and the teachings of Jesus. It encourages you to make intentional choices that lay the foundations of building healthy rhythms for you and teaching your kids to do the same. The practical suggestions, such as prioritizing family dinners and scheduling downtime, will provide you with tangible ways to create a more fulfilling and purposeful family life.

It’s worth taking the time to reflect on how we can incorporate these principles into our lives. We encourage you to embrace a pace of life that allows your family to truly connect, recharge, and live the life you were made for.

To watch this month’s Online Parenting Class video, click the link below.

[ INSERT LINK TO ONLINE PARENTING CLASS VIDEO ]

You can do this! We are always here for you if you need us.

Cheering you on,

[INSERT LEADER’S SIGNATURE HERE]

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Subject Line: Slowing it All Down

Dear Parents,

As we all seek to navigate the chaos of life, we quickly get reeled into a pace that is unsustainable. We sacrifice crucial aspects of well-being for the allure of constant busyness. We struggle to slow down and turn it all off, fearing we might miss something or get left behind in some way. It’s a real struggle.

We know that slowing down is really important. It gives us the opportunity to rest and reflect, foster meaningful connections, and embrace a healthier pace for our family. This month’s parent resources offer some valuable suggestions and encourage us to adopt a different mindset. When we make the decision to take a step back, recharge, and cultivate a deeper connection with each other and with God, we begin to live in the way we were created to live.

Take a few moments to check out this month’s Online Parenting Class if you haven’t already. Maybe share it with a friend. Read this month’s blog article titled “The Gift of January.” Carve out some time to go through the Toolbox Resource, A Family Guide to Building Rest, which is designed to provide you with some practical steps to take over the course of four weeks to begin building habits and laying a foundation for developing a healthier pace that can help you to live in the way rest that God intends for you to live. These resources speak to the challenges many of us face in the fast-paced world. It’s an invitation to reconsider our priorities, create intentional moments of connection, and lead our families in a way that aligns with our faith.

To read the blog article or watch the video, click on the links below.

[ INSERT LINK TO M2P PARENTING BLOG ARTICLE ]

[ INSERT LINK TO M2P ONLINE PARENTING CLASS VIDEO ]

We are in this together! Let us know if there is ever anything we can do for you or your family.

Praying for you as you lead at home,

[INSERT LEADER’S SIGNATURE HERE]

M2P January KIDS Parent Video Script

In the speed and chaos of today’s modern life, it’s easy for families to get caught up in what can quickly become a relentless pace. We often sacrifice rest, quality time, meaningful connections, and an overall healthy mentality for a faux excitement that comes from doing something all the time … from “being busy.” You know how it goes. We have to get up each day. We have to get dressed, pack lunches, and head out the door to work and school. There are appointments and practices and homework and meetings. Sometime late afternoon or early evening, we get home, unless we have something that night, but eventually, we have to eat, bathe, and do homework, and finally, we lie down to hope to fall asleep … only to get up the next day and do it all over again. And we wait for our weekends, which actually are full of practices or games or rehearsals and church and so much stuff. It can all be kind of crazy.

As Christian parents, deep down, we know this isn’t the way it should be. We know that there are encouragements from Scripture to prioritize a healthier pace of living, one that echoes the biblical principles of rest, reflection, and a focus on our family. In Genesis 2:2-3, God Himself rested on the seventh day after the creation of the world, setting a precedent for rest and rejuvenation. By figuring out how to take time to slow down in your life, you can model the same rhythm that God demonstrated, and you can create an environment where your family can find a semblance of peace and renewal. In Psalm 46:10, the Psalmist implores us to “Be still, and know that I am God,” emphasizing the importance of quiet reflection and communion with our creator. Slowing down allows families to cultivate a deeper sense of awareness, fostering a deeper connection with each other and with God.

Moreover, in Mark 6:31, Jesus encourages His disciples to “Come away by yourselves to a desolate place and rest a while.” This call to retreat and recharge is a reminder that even in the midst of life and responsibilities, taking a step back is crucial.

Hopefully, you can see that developing a slower pace for your family can allow for some real bonding and spiritual nourishment. In Ephesians 5:15-16, Paul advises believers to be wise in how they use their time, urging them to make the most of every opportunity. Slowing down enables you and your family to seize these opportunities, savoring the precious moments that can contribute to a more fulfilling and purposeful life.

I have a few practical suggestions for you:

First, I would suggest you make family dinners at home a priority. You may ask, “What does this have to do with slowing down and resting?” and I would argue it does. Making time to connect over a meal gives us all a type of soul rest that can slow us down. If we’re all eating at different times and on the go, it plays into the frantic pace of life, and we miss out on practical opportunities to turn it all off and, tune it all out and just be together. In seasons of life where our kids were busy with sports, church, or other things, we would often eat dinner together at 8:30 or 9 just to ensure we had that time to stop, eat, and connect. I’m convinced that making those family dinners a priority did a lot of things for us as a family, and I’m so glad we did.

Next, schedule family downtime. Often, when we have a free night or a free weekend, we might feel as if we need to plug something into that spot and get something done. You don’t. In fact, you likely not only need the rest, but you might need the opportunity to reconnect with your family. Now, when you have this downtime, you’ll have to work to NOT let everyone, and I do mean everyone, retreat to their devices and/or their rooms for their own personal time alone. Our devices make it so easy to isolate ourselves and somehow think it’s good, healthy time away from the chaos, but, in reality, we just get reeled into a different kind of chaos as we scroll, watch, or mindlessly play. Create a culture in your home where there are times of rest when the family is all together, having good and meaningful conversations and building your relationships. This will give everyone another type of soul rest that matters to our well-being.

Finally, figure out ways to regularly; I would argue daily, stop, and reflect on God. In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus Himself demonstrates the importance of rest and retreat. In Matthew 11:28-30, He says, “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” As parents, taking time to focus on God and embrace a healthier pace allows us to lead by example, showing our children the value of finding rest and refuge in Christ. In doing so, we cultivate a family environment that is grounded in faith, love, and a shared commitment to prioritizing what truly matters.

So, don’t let you and your family move so fast that you are in danger of crashing and burning. Pay attention to how the frantic pace of life your kids might be in is impacting them. Recognize the need we all have to move through life, having a healthier pace, and do what you can to make sure your family makes decisions that will lead you to the life you were made for and really want to live.

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Subject Line: Making God’s Word a Family Priority

Dear Parents,

When it comes to helping your kids understand and grow in their faith, what do you focus on the most? Is it taking them to church and having them involved with Sunday school and all the other events? Do you read them stories from the Bible, hoping that they will be intrigued and want to hear more? These are certainly good things that will contribute to them developing a real faith. But here’s another question: Are you helping your kids develop the habits they need to grow on their own and not have to rely on anyone else to have a vibrant faith? Sure, at this point in life, they need to rely on others for many things. But that will one day change. As they grow older, they will need to learn how to be more self-sufficient, and they will need the tools to do so.

One of the most important things you can do for your kids as they continue their spiritual journey is to help them feel comfortable reading and studying the Bible. As a parent, you have the opportunity to model to your kids what it means to read and study the Bible. They are watching you, and if they see you value time in Scripture, they just might, too. Facilitate times in your home where everyone takes at least some time to read their Bible and reflect on what God says. If you make reading the Bible a normal and natural part of life, your kids will develop a critical habit that they will need as they go through life.

This month, we want to equip you with some resources that you can use to lead your kids in spending time reading, studying, and engaging with God’s Word on their own and together with you. Our hope is that you will find this month’s Online Parenting Class Video inspiring and encouraging and that the 7-day devotional Toolbox Resource will act as a catalyst for building the habits of daily Scripture reading, reflection, application, and prayer in the lives of your children and family.

To watch this month’s Online Parenting Class video, click the link below.

[ INSERT LINK TO ONLINE PARENTING CLASS VIDEO ]

You can do this! We are always here for you if you need us.

Cheering you on,

[INSERT LEADER’S SIGNATURE HERE]

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Subject Line: Spending Time in God’s Word

Dear Parents,

One of the things that we all seem to deal with is the fact that good things get crowded out of our lives. We’re so busy and so preoccupied that we don’t spend the time we need to spend on the things we need to spend it on. If we’re honest, most of us see this struggle play out in the amount of time we spend with God, particularly reading His word. We know that spending time reading the Bible should be a key part of our spiritual development, but for a number of reasons, we don’t spend the time we should getting to know God better through the pages of His Word. We’re content with listening to a sermon, attending a class, or maybe reading another book that tells us what other people think about the Bible.

But, if we really want to grow in our faith and effectively pass it on to our kids, we have to make time to learn more about God and how we can have a relationship with Him. We have to develop the discipline to make time for reading God’s word, reflecting on it, and discerning how He wants us to live each and every day. We have to model spending time in the Bible to our children so they see that we value learning about what it says. We don’t have to be perfect and have all the answers, but we do have to have a posture of learning and growing if we want our kids to do the same.

This month’s parent resources, like the blog article “Teaching Our Kids to Treasure God’s Word,” can help you discover ways to make reading and learning the Bible a key part of your family’s spiritual development. And if you haven’t watched this month’s encouraging Online Parenting Class video, you still have time. To read the blog article or watch the video, click on the links below.

[ INSERT LINK TO M2P PARENTING BLOG ARTICLE ]

[ INSERT LINK TO M2P ONLINE PARENTING CLASS VIDEO ]

We are in this together! Let us know if there is ever anything we can do for you or your family.

Praying for you as you lead at home,

[INSERT LEADER’S SIGNATURE HERE]

M2P December KIDS Parent Video Script

As our kids are growing and learning in life, they are certainly encountering a lot of different things. They encounter different people, different circumstances, and different ideas. They are trying to process what they think and believe about the world. They are trying to discern what they think is true. They have a lot of input that comes their way, and we need to make sure that the things they are learning are pointing them in the direction we want them to go.

When we think about where we want them to go, a lot of things come to mind. We want for them to be successful, whatever that means. We want for them to be healthy in lots of different ways. We also want them to understand and embrace a true faith in God that will lead them for the rest of their lives. I imagine you wouldn’t be watching this video if you didn’t want that.

You see, just like we nourish their bodies with healthy food, it’s equally important to feed their hearts and minds with the timeless wisdom found in the Bible. When we do that, it’s like giving them a kind of map to navigate life’s adventures. The Bible is packed with stories of courage, love, hardship, and struggle, and the most extraordinary hero of all time—Jesus! Now, the Bible doesn’t specifically answer every question they or we have, but it does offer us hope for the future and challenge us to “live a life worthy of the calling we have received.”

As parents, we have the opportunity, and I would argue responsibility, to guide our children on a journey of faith. I think that we need to be careful that this faith that we help them develop doesn’t just come from things that we think we have heard over the years, principles that we have learned in the past, or vague Christian ideas that we think sound good. The foundation of this journey needs to be the Bible, God’s word, and what He says about us and the world. Think about the stories of Noah and the Ark, David and Goliath, Paul and his conversion, and Jesus as He performs miracles, demonstrates His love, and overcomes death. These are more than just words on paper; they are the building blocks of a strong, resilient faith that will anchor your children in the storms of life. Just like we teach our kids to tie their shoes or ride a bike, introducing them to the Bible can be an essential part of their growth and development.

Now, I know life gets busy, and it’s not always easy to find any extra time in the day to do one more thing. But I would encourage you to make spending time in the Bible a real priority for both your kids and for you. If you become more familiar with what it says in God’s word, you will be better positioned to lead your kids as they discover who God is through all that they encounter. And, if we help our kids get into the habits of reading their Bible, reflecting on what it says, and coming to God in prayer, they will learn and grow as disciples. Life won’t be perfect, and things won’t always go their way, but God will be with them.

As parents, we have a front-row seat to not just witness the formation of our child’s character and values but to influence it, and we need a foundation that is bigger than just what we think. The Bible serves as a foundation for instilling virtues like kindness, patience, forgiveness, and love. When our kids learn about the compassion of Jesus or the bravery of biblical heroes, they are not merely gaining knowledge; they are learning the essence of what it means to be a person of integrity and love. Talk about what you are learning, read stories together, ask your kids if they have any questions, and make studying and talking about the Bible a normal and natural part of family life.

So, in the hustle and bustle of life, let’s not forget the importance of cultivating a vibrant spiritual life in our homes. Know that your efforts, no matter how small, contribute to the growth of these little disciples who carry the light of their faith into the world. So, let’s embrace this beautiful responsibility that we all have and let’s dive into what God has given us, His Word, and let’s help our kids develop a foundation of faith that is built on Jesus and bolstered by their understanding of the Bible and their exploration of it.

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Subject Line: Surrounding Your Kids

Dear Parents,

As your kids grow up and move through life, there are so many adults who influence them along the way. Teachers, coaches, extended family, friends, and others have a voice into the person your child is becoming. As parents, you have the opportunity to “dial in” some key mentoring relationships that can have a profound impact on your child’s growth and spiritual development. A big part of our job is to do our best to surround your kids with caring and godly adults who will encourage (and nudge) them in the direction that glorifies God. Helping kids grow into the Christ-like people we are praying they will become takes a lot of work, and you, as a parent, need help!

As you think about how to place helpful, Godly influences in your child’s life, make sure to check out the resources we have for you this month. The Online Parenting Class will help give you some more thoughts about why this idea of spiritual mentors is so important and offer some practical suggestions on things you can do to facilitate the relationships you want your kids to have. The Toolbox Resource is a Mentoring Assessment that will give you an exercise to go through to identify some steps you can take to help your child begin to have mentors who can help lead them spiritually. We’re here for you, and this month’s resources will hopefully be helpful as you seek to lead your children well.

To watch this month’s Online Parenting Class video, click the link below.

[ INSERT LINK TO ONLINE PARENTING CLASS VIDEO ]

You can do this! We are always here for you if you need us.

Cheering you on,

[INSERT LEADER’S SIGNATURE HERE]

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Subject Line: Parenting Through The Chaos

Dear Parents,

We all know that relationships are important, and that is especially true for your kids. They have a lot of relationships in life, and, as parents, we hope and pray that their relationships are pointing them in the right direction. If we can help our kids begin to develop solid relationships with adult mentors who will love and encourage them, we will create opportunities for them to learn and grow in a healthy way.

As you think about these things, take some time to read this month’s blog article titled “Finding Mentors for Your Child” and schedule some time to go through the Toolbox Resource, which is a Mentoring Assessment to help you identify steps you can take to better lead your child to the influences they need. These resources will give some fuel to your fire as you do what you can to help your child build solid relationships with adult mentors who can guide them along the way. This is such a critical time in their growth and spiritual development, and you have the opportunity to help them develop the faith they will need to navigate the world by making sure they are surrounded by voices that will mold and shape them in the right way. Let us know how we can help.

And if you haven’t watched this month’s encouraging Online Parenting Class Video, you still have time. To read the blog article or watch the video, click on the links below.

[ INSERT LINK TO M2P PARENTING BLOG ARTICLE ]

[ INSERT LINK TO M2P ONLINE PARENTING CLASS VIDEO ]

We are in this together! Let us know if there is ever anything we can do for you or your family.

Praying for you as you lead at home,

[INSERT LEADER’S SIGNATURE HERE]

M2P November KIDS Parent Video Script

Our daughter is a senior in high school, which I know is likely older than your kids are right now. But she’s in the middle of applying for colleges, and my wife and I are helping her as much as she’ll let us. You see, she’s a high achiever and very independent, so there’s only so much she’ll let us do. A few weeks ago, she was in the middle of writing her college essays, and she wanted some help in the editing process. She reached out to a lady at our church who she calls Mrs. Mary. Mrs. Mary is a former teacher; she’s my daughter’s small group leader, and she has been in our daughter’s life as a leader and mentor for a long, long time.

When our kids are young, we tend to keep them close. We keep them close to home, we keep them close to us, and we hope they will begin to grow close to God. As we watch them grow, we know that they need us in a lot of ways. But sometimes, we often think that we are enough. We want to believe that we have everything they need to grow and thrive. But deep down, we know that we aren’t enough. We know that our kids need more. We know that they need healthy adult influences in their lives that will help us point them in the direction we hope they will go.

We are so thankful that, as a senior in high school, our daughter has significant adults in her life that are encouraging her and cheering her on. People like Mrs. Mary, and Nikki, and Kasey, and Courtney, and Sarah, and Hop. But these relationships didn’t just start recently; they have been growing for years. Some of these relationships go back to when our daughter was born and have taken a long time to cultivate. What I know is that these people have been helping our daughter in her life and faith as she has grown up, and my wife and I are so thankful.

I would encourage you to find significant adults who can speak into the lives of your kids. This may happen in small doses when they are young, but as they get older, find ways to build relationships with key adults who will help in your kids’ spiritual and emotional growth. This may take intentional planning and work on your part because our lives are busy, and sometimes, the idea of making relational investments for the future sounds good, but we just don’t think we have time.

Likely, the best place to find the key relationships your kids need is at church. I would encourage you to make being involved in your church a real priority. You’ll notice I didn’t say make “going to church” a priority but being involved in your church. Don’t just settle on going to Sunday services a few times a month and scooting out at the end. Go early and mingle with other families. Stay late and go to lunch with people. Invest in a ministry in your church as an attender or a leader. Just be involved and build relationships with people who can have an impact on your kids.

And then, when there are people who are investing in your kids, make it a priority and to invest in them back. Encourage the people who are doing the encouraging. Thank them and stay close to them. Build community and spend time with them. If you can create opportunities for your kids to be around these people in lots of different ways, the relationships will grow, and your kids will have some valuable mentors as they grow up.

Here’s the bottom line. Your kids need you, but they also need other adults … mentors who are helping you lead your kids. If you will be intentional about surrounding your kids with people who will love and encourage them along the way, your kids will get to their teenage and young adult years, and they will have significant adults to lean on when they need help. And you will be thankful.

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Subject Line: Navigating Difficult Issues

Dear Parents,

More than likely, you are moving at warp speed through life, and there is little time to step back, take a breath, or realize what is going on with your kids. We all know that there is so much “coming at” them, and they often have no idea how to process what they are thinking or what they believe. The world is a complex place with complex issues, and there are lots of landmines for us to step in as we seek to teach and lead our kids. Well, there is hope, and we want to encourage you along the way.

This month, we are going to provide you with some resources targeted at helping you think through how you will help your children navigate some of the difficult issues they are facing. The way we interact with our kids as they sort out what they believe really matters, and we have some tools for you to both think through how you are leading as well as talk to your kids about it all. Our Online Parenting Class Video and the Toolbox Resource entitled Hope In The Midst Of Trouble are designed to help you provide your child with reminders of God’s goodness, His faithfulness, and His promises. They are helpful resources you can use to open ongoing conversations with your kid(s)—reminding them of God’s character, the hope He offers, and that even if they feel that God is far away, the truth of His Word is everlasting.

To watch this month’s Online Parenting Class video, click the link below.

[ INSERT LINK TO ONLINE PARENTING CLASS VIDEO ]

Cheering you on,

[INSERT LEADER’S SIGNATURE HERE]

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Subject Line: Parenting Through The Chaos

Dear Parents,

As you think about all the things your family is having to deal with on a daily basis, it can be a little overwhelming. You have to get up, get ready, get everyone else ready, get out the door to school and work, get everyone to their afternoon and evening activities, push or bribe your child to finish their homework, and maybe (if you are lucky) you get to eat somewhere along the way. Not only do you have to navigate your normal schedules, but you also have to navigate and help your child learn to navigate the increasingly difficult issues that exist in the world. Your kid(s) are being bombarded with new and increasingly difficult challenges or decisions about things they have no way to process. As a parent, you probably already feel like you are at a loss for what to do, where to help, and how to engage.

Dealing with difficult issues is not new in the world, but it does seem like they are coming faster and with greater intensity than they once did. The good news is that when it comes to helping a child think through and deal with the difficult issues of life, there are some practical things that you can do to help them develop the solid spiritual foundation that we all want them to have. Much of what you can do revolves around building real relationships, having open/honest conversations, and spending time in prayer. This can take a lot of work and can even be a little intimidating for many, but it’s so worth it because just these simple steps can have more of an impact than most parents realize. This month’s resources, like the blog article “Heartache and Hope,” will offer you some encouragement and practical ideas on what you can do to help your kid(s) navigate this chaotic world. And if you haven’t watched this month’s encouraging Online Parenting Class video, you still have time. To read the blog article or watch the video, click on the links below.

[ INSERT LINK TO M2P PARENTING BLOG ARTICLE ]

[ INSERT LINK TO M2P ONLINE PARENTING CLASS VIDEO ]

We are in this together! Let us know if there is ever anything we can do for you or your family.

Praying for you as you lead at home,

[INSERT LEADER’S SIGNATURE HERE]

M2P October KIDS Parent Video Script

In his book, War in the Wilderness: Fight for Your Family When Life Isn’t as It Should Be, Brian Haynes says, “Between the gardens, Eden (Paradise) and New Jerusalem (Peace), there is only the desert; a biblical metaphor for life and the place we are loving and leading our family, our spouse, our children, and our grandchildren.”

Our desire is to enjoy peace in our family, and that’s God’s heart for us, too. We certainly wouldn’t choose to walk through the wilderness where difficulty and suffering abound. But the reality of a world broken by sin, our own and that of others, is that life will be hard. In John 16:33, Jesus said, “In this world you will have trouble.” And we can certainly identify trouble wherever we turn and feel it deeply when it arises in our own lives, especially when it has to do with our children.

In the last decade or so, culture has planted some giant landmines for parents to navigate. In addition to conversations about divorce, illness, death, and others that children have brought up for a long time, we now face issues like sexual orientation, gender dysphoria, body shaming, self-harm, depression, and anxiety. At the core of these ever-expanding topics is identity. The Enemy wants nothing more than to interfere with a child’s thinking and use these cultural norms to twist God’s truth about who and whose they are.

As your child grows, there are several tools you can employ to explain and counteract culture’s messages.

Continually talk to your children about their identity in Christ. Things like God created you, He knew you before you were born, He loves you, He chose you, and you are made in His image. Use scripture, like Genesis 1:27, Psalm 139:13-14, and Ephesians 2:10, to show them God’s words about who they are. As they get older, help them memorize those verses.

Another tool to develop is to embrace the idea that no topic is taboo in your home. You want your children to get their information about the world from you. Children are inquisitive. They notice things. They ask questions. They want answers. It’s best to answer your child in an age-appropriate way. A 4-year-old doesn’t need the same kind or as much information you would share with a 10-year-old. When tough issues come up, don’t shy away from uncomfortable conversations. You want them to learn they can come to you with anything long before they enter their adolescent years.

Something else you can do is to be knowledgeable about tough topics and what God has to say about them. If your child puts you on the spot or you feel like the time is right to bring something up, you don’t want to feel like you have no idea what to say. Seek other trusted Christians for resources like books or articles to help give you more insight. Your children’s pastor, youth pastor, or a Christian counselor would be great people to ask for information. If your child asks a question you aren’t yet prepared to answer or they’re not ready for the information, it’s okay to tell him or her you’ll come back with an answer later. I will answer you later or will tell you when you’re a little older.

The last but most important tool you have is prayer. Your kids are being inundated with these weighty issues at younger and younger ages. It can leave you feeling overwhelmed, heart aching, and mind worried about your family being affected personally in these areas. When these thoughts and feelings rise up, pray continually.

The Lord knows the burdens you carry for your children, and He wants you to leave them in His capable hands. And if you can’t find the words to pray, the Bible says to ask the Holy Spirit to intercede for you.

I want to leave you with an encouraging truth. John 16:33, in its entirety, says, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” Jesus is our peace, strength, and victory.

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Subject Line: Navigating Life and Our Kid’s Sports

Dear Parents,

For many of you, your life and family calendar are probably filled with carting your kid(s) around to practices, games, tournaments, and matches of all different types. It can be a lot of fun but, if we’re honest, it can be exhausting too. As a parent, you may need to take a little time to evaluate what a life overrun with sports is doing to your kid(s), their development, and their faith.

If your family is into sports or you think that someday they might be, this month’s resources for parents will help you better lead your family as you navigate all the things that come with being involved in, when it comes to your kid’s athletics. As your Children’s Ministry leaders, we want to come alongside you, equip you, and minister to you and your family as your kid(s) are engaged in sports. So, make sure that you check out The Online Parenting Class and the Toolbox Resource we have for you that is entitled Huddle Up. These resources will give you an opportunity to have a little fun with your kid(s) as you talk together about the role sports play in your family’s life, how faith can integrate with sports, and encourage your kid(s) to grow in their faith through sports while also living out that faith on the field of competition.

To watch this month’s Online Parenting Class video, click the link below.

[ INSERT LINK TO ONLINE PARENTING CLASS VIDEO ]

You can do this! We are always here for you if you need us.

Cheering you on,

[INSERT LEADER’S SIGNATURE HERE]

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Subject Line: Let Them Play

Dear Parents,

We all know that we live in a culture that is saturated with sports. We watch sports, we talk about sports, and many of your kid(s) play some level of sports or have friends who do. Being on a team or learning how to master athletic skills can be incredibly beneficial for our kid(s). They learn so much, meet new people, and get to experience the thrill of competition. But often, being involved in sports can become a chore for your kid(s). How can you lead them to enjoy their experience and just play? Remember, your job as a parent is NOT to push your kid(s) to be the best they can be in sports but to use sports as a vehicle to help them become the men or women God has created them to be. It can be a heck of a journey, but if you can keep it all in perspective, sports can be a place where your kid(s) grow in their faith and live that faith out in incredible ways.

Check out this month’s blog article, “Church & Sports—Finding Balance,” and the Toolbox Resource entitled Huddle Up for some much-needed encouragement, some conversation cues to open up discussion, and some practical ideas as to what you can do as their parent to help your kid(s) learn how they can navigate sports, especially in relation to the church and their faith.

And if you haven’t watched this month’s encouraging Online Parenting Class Video, you still have time. To read the blog article or watch the video, click on the links below.

[ INSERT LINK TO M2P PARENTING BLOG ARTICLE ]

[ INSERT LINK TO M2P ONLINE PARENTING CLASS VIDEO ]

We are in this together! Let us know if there is ever anything we can do for you or your family.

Praying for you as you lead at home,

[INSERT LEADER’S SIGNATURE HERE]

M2P September KIDS Parent Video Script

For most of us as parents, we get to a point in life where we think, OK, I wonder if my kid is going to like sports. Sports are a prominent part of our culture, other families around us are a part of sports, maybe we were involved in sports as we grew up, and it’s often kind of in our face in a lot of different ways. We have these moments where we either talk to our kids about signing them up for a lesson or a team, or we just do it. It seems like most of us believe that there is an inherent benefit for our kids in playing sports, so we want to see if they like it and decide to make sports a part of their lives.

Then, if our kids stay involved in sports, there begin to be layers of things that we have to figure out and deal with. Sports can quickly begin to dominate the family calendar. Sports can trigger lots of emotions, good and bad. And hey … let’s be honest … we, as adults, can get wrapped up in the emotion of what it means for our kids to play sports.

As someone who grew up in a big sports family, as a parent who has helped my kids navigate sports for a long time, and as someone who has been a high school coach for almost 25 years, I’d love to offer you some suggestions for when it comes to leading your kids through their sports journey.

First … Don’t overload your kids when it comes to sports. Don’t fill their calendar with lots of commitments from teams at an early age. Kids still need to be kids. You may think that you could have the next Michael Jordan, Tom Brady, or Lionel Messi on your hands, but chances are you don’t. Sorry to burst that bubble. Like I mentioned, I’ve been a high school coach for over two decades, and I have seen way too many kids get burned out from sports by the time they get to late middle school or early high school. Don’t let sports overly dominate your family calendar as your kids are young.

Similarly, when it comes to sports, let them play. What I mean by that is don’t put too much pressure on your kids to be great. Just let them be a kid and enjoy the moments. So many teenagers and young adults are crumbling today because of the pressure they feel to perform, and this often starts at an early age in the area of sports. Do whatever you can to help your kids enjoy what they are a part of instead of looking at it as a chore or something that weighs them down. Remember that you’re not their coach… unless you are. And, side note, if you are, keep the coaching for the field or the court, not the car ride or the kitchen table. I heard a great encouragement years ago from a guy named Ted Williams and the Change the Game Project. He encourages parents that the only thing you need to say to your kids after an athletic contest is this. “I love to watch you play.” That’s it. Don’t talk about their technique, what they did right or wrong, what they could’ve done better, or anything when it comes to their performance. Just let them know that as their parent, you love watching them play and you are proud of them.

And when it comes to faith, find ways to help your kids begin to integrate their faith into their sports at an early age. I can remember being in the car when my kids were going into practice or tryouts or something, and I would ask my kids if I could pray for them as they headed into event. I would ask them what I could pray about, and then we’d pray.

Finally, talk to your kids about what it looks like to live out their faith on the field or on the court. That can be as simple as encouraging the other kids, being a good listener and follower when it comes to the coaches, and being kind in the midst of their competition. Kids can learn to do their best and compete while still showing respect to their opponents. Help your kids internalize what Paul says in ________: Whatever you do, in word or deed, do it all for the glory of God. If our kids can learn to truly play for God instead of themselves (or for you), they can have a tremendous impact on those around them.

Finally, think about what you want to celebrate when it comes to how your kids experience sports. Maybe don’t focus on celebrating how many goals they scored, shots they made, plays they made, or whether they won. Maybe celebrate that time, or they helped another kid up off the floor when they fell down, or when they encouraged someone who was struggling. If we can celebrate the way they are growing in their character instead of how well they perform, maybe their character will develop in a deeper way than it would otherwise.

Sports can be a big part of your family’s life, and the experiences can be great. They also can take over and dominate and send us all down a worldly path that leads us away from a real faith in God. So take some time to think through how you want to help your family, and specifically your kids, experience sports in a good and healthy way that helps them grow in their faith and not be drawn away from their faith.

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Subject Line: Building Intergenerational Discipleship into Your Family

Dear Parents,

When it comes to passing on faith to your children, what’s your strategy? Obviously, you’re working to have a growing and vibrant faith yourself. You want to have your child involved in a church where they can learn the stories of God and develop a solid foundation. You may not know this, but you also need to be highly intentional when it comes to connecting your kids to older generations who will model faith and encourage your kids as they grow. You need intergenerational discipleship!

This month, we are going to provide you with some resources that we hope will paint a picture for you of what healthy intergenerational discipleship could look like for you and your family. Our Online Parenting Class Video and Toolbox Resource entitled The 4 I’s of Intended Influence: A Parent’s Guide To Intentional Intergenerational Discipleship will help you better understand the importance of intergenerational discipleship and give you some practical steps to take.

To watch this month’s Online Parenting Class video, click the link below.

[ INSERT LINK TO ONLINE PARENTING CLASS VIDEO ]

Cheering you on!

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Subject Line: Moving the Needle of Faith Through Intergenerational Discipleship

Dear Parents,

As we continue to seek to help you lead your kids spiritually, we have a thought for you. One of the most important things you can do as a parent is connect your kids to significant, older adults who will pour into them spiritually. Sure, you want your kids to enjoy coming to church and participating in all the events. But the thing that will really move the needle when it comes to them growing in their faith is helping them develop relationships with adults in your church who will spur them on in their faith. We call this intergenerational discipleship.

This month’s resources, like our Online Parenting Class Video and Toolbox Resource, entitled The 4 I’s of Intended Influence: A Parent’s Guide To Intentional Intergenerational Discipleship, will help you better understand the importance of intergenerational discipleship and take some steps into it.  Also, check out this month’s blog article that will offer you some Scripture, encouragement, and some practical ideas on learning how grandparents can be so much more than babysitters in the life of your child. And if you haven’t watched this month’s encouraging Online Parenting Class video, you still have time. To read the blog article or watch the video, click on the links below.

[ INSERT LINK TO M2P PARENTING BLOG ARTICLE ]

[ INSERT LINK TO M2P ONLINE PARENTING CLASS VIDEO ]

We are in this together! Let us know if there is ever anything we can do for you or your family.

Praying for you as you lead at home,

[INSERT LEADER’S SIGNATURE HERE]

M2P August KIDS Parent Video Script

As parents of kids, we kind of have a lot going on.

When it comes to raising our kids spiritually, we need to acknowledge a few things. First, we need to embrace the fact that we are the primary spiritual leaders for our kids. They look to us to teach them about faith and model what it means to have a relationship with God. If we want for our kids to grow into disciples of Jesus, we need to lead the way. The second thing we need to acknowledge is the fact that we need help. We need help to better understand our kids, we need help when it comes to certain issues, and we need other adults saying the same things we are saying so our kids hear about a relationship with God from people who are not us. What we need is an intergenerational cloud of witnesses helping our kids grow in their faith.

Today, I want for you to think about the idea of intergenerational discipleship. Now, intergenerational discipleship means exactly what it says. It’s discipleship that happens in the midst of all the generations together. We should want for our kids to be in an environment where they have the opportunity to meet, build relationships with, and learn from people of all ages. In church, this can sometimes naturally happen with Sunday school teachers or small group leaders but imagine what would happen if we, as their parents, took it further.

Years ago, I heard about a reverse ratio. Typically, when you assemble a group of kids for a class or a group or a field trip, there needs to be a ratio of one adult for every 6/8/10 kids. You have to determine what the best number is. Well, the reverse ratio says this. As kids are growing up, there needs to be five adults surrounding every kid, pouring into them, teaching them, and encouraging them in their faith. And I would argue that a few of their five need to be from an older, more seasoned generation. Many of you have our parents who fit this category, and that’s great. If your parents are followers of Jesus and want to be a part of discipling your kids, lean into that for sure. But some of our kids don’t have grandparents who want to pour into them spiritually, so we have to find that influence elsewhere, and hopefully, that’s in your church.

As a parent, here are a few things you can do. First, make sure your kids are as involved in church as much as possible. As I mentioned, Sunday school, small groups, and “big church” are all great places for your kids to rub shoulders with people in older generations. Get to know the adults who are leading your kids and foster those relationships. What if you invited someone who is leading your child over for dinner one night or out to lunch with your family after church? You have the opportunity to bring people closer to your kids as you seek help in discipling them.

Secondly, look for opportunities to surround your kids with new, again maybe older voices who can encourage them and model what having a real faith looks like. My guess is that there are people in your church who might not teach or volunteer every week, but they can have a presence in your child’s life that will make a real difference. It’s your job to foster these kinds of relationships so that your child is in an environment where intergenerational discipleship happens.

And finally, I would encourage you to be involved in the discipleship of other kids in your church. This could mean that you become a teacher or a leader. Maybe you volunteer at events or coach a team or something else. Or it could simply mean that you make an effort to meet other families in your church and pay attention to the kids, encouraging them along the way. You can play a role in the discipleship of someone else’s kids. You could be a part of some kids 5.

I hope that your kids are going to be a part of the kids’ ministry at your church, where they are surrounded by other kids, they can build friendships, and they can be led by a least one caring adult. But don’t miss the power of a bigger picture of intergenerational discipleship. Do whatever you can to surround your kids with cool, young, hip leaders who your kids will fall in love with, but also surround them with older, more seasoned adults who can share a depth of faith that will have a tremendous impact on your child.

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Subject Line: Navigating Childhood Anxiety

Dear Parents,

When you think about your kids and all they have to deal with in today’s world, there is an issue that continues to be on the rise. Sadly, anxiety is something that is increasingly creeping into the lives of our kids, and it’s something that is starting earlier and earlier in life. Most kids today deal with some sort of anxiety, and, as parents, you have the unique opportunity to pay close attention to what is happening with your kids and help them learn to navigate these very real feelings in healthy ways. This month, we want to help you think about what you can do to be proactive in your child’s struggle with stressors, fears, and anxious thoughts. The Online Parenting Class and Toolbox Resource entitled 10 Ideas To Help Your Child Navigate & Cope With Anxiety will provide you with some suggestions for how you can engage with your child as they encounter these feelings. These resources will place some practical tools at your fingertips that you can use to lean into conversations with your child that will help them grow as they learn how to navigate their thoughts, feelings, and emotions.

To watch this month’s Online Parenting Class video, click the link below.

[ INSERT LINK TO M2P ONLINE PARENTING CLASS VIDEO ]

You can do this! We are always here for you if you need us.

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:6-7

Cheering you on,

[ INSERT LEADER’S SIGNATURE HERE ]

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Subject Line: Helping Your Kids Cope with Anxiety

Dear Parents,

When it comes to helping your children navigate stress and anxiety, what’s your strategy? In today’s world, kids are being forced to grow up and deal with thoughts and issues that their developing brains aren’t equipped to process. Much of their mental and emotional struggles lead them to experience real anxiety that they have no idea how to cope with. As their parent, you are best positioned to help them navigate these thoughts and emotions, and we want to help. This month’s resources are designed to give you helpful and practical ideas/tools to lead your child to a healthy place.

Check out this month’s blog article, “Hope For The Anxious Child: Parenting With Empathy & Wisdom,” and the Toolbox Resource entitled 10 Ideas To Help Your Child Navigate & Cope With Anxiety for some much-needed encouragement and some practical ideas as to what you can do as their parent to help your child learn how to move through life and deal with the anxieties they will no doubt face in a healthy way.

And if you haven’t watched this month’s encouraging Online Parenting Class Video, you still have time. To read the blog article or watch the video, click on the links below.

[ INSERT LINK TO M2P PARENTING BLOG ARTICLE ]

[ INSERT LINK TO M2P ONLINE PARENTING CLASS VIDEO ]

We are in this together! Let us know if there is ever anything we can do for you or your family.

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:6-7

Praying for you as you lead at home,

[INSERT LEADER’S SIGNATURE HERE]

M2P July KIDS Parent Video Script

When my children were little, I remember them being afraid of a variety of things from time to time. Fear of the dark, loud storms, and new situations, to name a few. My oldest slept with her light on for a time because she said she liked it better, which we knew was because the dark was scary for her. My youngest daughter was scared at bedtime because she thought she was going to have bad dreams, so we prayed with her each night and added a little p.s. that her dreams would be filled with puppies, kitties, cupcakes, and sprinkles.

Children typically experience fears at different points growing up, especially during periods of change like going to school for the first time, moving to a new house, meeting new people, or unfamiliar situations. These things are normal, and the anxious behavior kids display typically goes away after a while. It doesn’t downplay children’s concerns at all, and parents’ help to alleviate these fears is vital.

Anxiety is defined as a condition characterized by excessive apprehensiveness about real or perceived threats, typically leading to avoidance behaviors and often to physical symptoms. We know that based on current statistics and studies, anxiety among younger children is on the rise. As parents, we need to be aware of common signs and symptoms children might display and have tools to help them.

Anxiety in kids can present differently than in teens or adults. Chronic tummy aches, headaches, irritability, trouble sleeping, not wanting to be away from parents, and unusual clinginess can all indicate the presence of anxiety. Irrational fears or extreme worry can also be present, making a child feel anxious.

So, what can a parent do if a child displays signs of anxiety? First of all, pray for the Lord’s wisdom and discernment. Ask Him to guide and direct you in addressing your child’s needs and to understand what you’re seeing in his or her behavior. Pray with your child, too. Using scripture as you pray is a wonderful way to plant the seeds of God’s Word in the heart of your child. Helping your child memorize verses about the Lord’s peace, love, and protection is a way to equip them with His truth.

An important tool to embrace is to lead with empathy and compassion. Sometimes our response is to jump in and try to fix the problem, telling our child why they don’t need to be afraid. That’s not a bad approach, but it’s not the first thing a parent should do. Instead, meet your child’s fear first with an abundance of love, understanding, and assurance that all will be okay. Childhood fears and worries are very real and can be overwhelming; offering compassion validates a child’s feelings. Empathy calms an anxious heart. When this is your first response, your child will be better able to feel comforted in the safety of your love. It also opens the door for your child to see the love of Jesus expressed through your actions and to know that He is with them in all things.

Finally, it’s important to know when it’s time to seek professional help. If anxiety doesn’t lessen over a reasonable period of time with your guidance, if fears and worries increase in intensity, or if your child presents with constant physical symptoms, it would be a very good idea to reach out for evaluation and assistance. Start with an exam at your pediatrician’s office to be sure physical symptoms are caused by anxiety or if there are underlying conditions causing problems. Ask church leaders for recommendations of therapists who can help you and your child deal with anxieties. It is especially helpful to see someone who specializes in therapy for children if one is available near you.

Be encouraged that there is hope and healing for your child’s troubled mind and heart. There is wisdom available to you from the Lord, from other parents who have walked the path with an anxious child, and from your church leaders. Lavish your child with empathy and compassion, speak words of God’s truth to him or her and seek professional help when needed.