When we hear the phrase “reality hit” or “reality set in,” it usually has a negative connotation. It often subtly or not so subtly implies that circumstances just got more difficult and that outlook on life has reason to be bleaker. Though this is often true, it doesn’t have to be.
It is possible to approach the more difficult realities of parenting in the 21st century with a sense of hope as each reality poses an awesome opportunity. For example…
Reality: More kids grow up today believing that life is meaningless than kids who believe life has purpose.
Opportunity: Pre-teenagers are in a developmental stage in which they are looking for a paradigm for how to engage the world. There is no greater explanatory resource for meaning and purpose than the biblical narrative of creation. The idea taught in Scripture that God purposefully made each of us in His image with the ability to reflect His goodness in and to the world offers a powerful reason to believe that life is significant. Impress this truth into your kids’ minds and hearts each day.
Reality: Fundamental perspectives on truth, morality, integrity, and even whether life has purpose are firmly in place by the age of 13.
Opportunity: Every car ride, meal together, and bedtime offers a unique opportunity for a meaningful conversation during a child’s formative years. Seeds of hope and truth planted during these pre-teenage years yield the greatest fruit long-term. You have the most important voice in shaping your child’s worldview. Meaningful conversations provide layers to the foundation of faith and values that you wish to reenforce in your child’s life.
Reality: Kids are spending more than 7 hours digitally-connected and about 20 minutes of quality time with their parents each day.
Opportunity: If digital experiences are shaping kids today, make sure your kids’ digital experiences are supporting your efforts to lay a foundation of Christian faith and values while you can. Lightgliders was designed to help. Watch the video below to learn more.