By Tanya Yuen, Children and Family Ministries Associate
Preparing children for the start of a new school year can be both an exciting and challenging time for families. As the anticipation builds, parents can take proactive steps to ensure their children are mentally and spiritually prepared for the upcoming fall. Here are some tips to consider:
- Prayer: Pray for your kids and encourage your children to start each day with prayer. Pray Scripture! Check out this list for some ideas. You can also teach them Scriptures to pray. This practice will provide them (and you!) with a sense of peace and connection to God before they head to school.
- Conversation: Talk about feelings for the new school year. Engage in conversation through open-ended questions with your children about the new school year and provide a safe space for them to share. Discuss potential challenges and ways that God is with them.
- Practice Gratitude: Encourage your children to express gratitude daily. Consider creating a gratitude journal as a family.
- Practice Coping Skills: Teach your children coping mechanisms to handle stress, anxiety, and conflicts. Breathing exercises, mindfulness techniques, or creative outlets like drawing or writing can be helpful tools. Check out this resource.
- Set Realistic Goals: Help your children set achievable goals for the school year, both academically and spiritually. This can instill a sense of purpose and accomplishment as they work toward these goals.
These are just a few tips to consider when empowering your children to face the new school year with confidence, grace, and resilience. May God bless you and your children abundantly as you embark on this new school year together. With Him by your side, you can face any challenge and overcome every obstacle. Trust in His unfailing love, and may your family experience growth, joy, and an ever-deepening relationship with Christ.
