Encouraging Your Kids

What does your teenager do really, really well? What gifts and strengths have they been given by God? Is there a positive character trait that just shines? I want to encourage you today to see and celebrate your teen’s strengths. Do you remember your own middle school years? For most of us, it was brutal. Some things never change. Young peers can create, find, and point out all kinds of negative things in ways that are now sometimes defined as “bullying” or “harassment.” But if your home is a place of refuge from that craziness, you will be instilling a healthy sense of resiliency that can sustain your kids through the pressure. One way to do this is to take the opposite approach of their peers. . . who are all too quick to point out and celebrate deficiencies. Look for and encourage your teen to develop their God-given gifts and abilities. Complement them on their successes. One of the best ways to love and nurture our kids is to point out that which brings glory to God. They want and need your affirmation.