The Dos And Don’ts Of Faith And Parenting

Life as a parent is filled with things you should and shouldn’t say. There is a myriad of rules you should or shouldn’t set. With little ones in your life, your days will soon become a task of keeping track of bedtimes, wash days, and rules.
When it comes to faith and parenting, things get even trickier. As kids get older, it’s natural for them to consider faith and spirituality on their terms. No matter what belief system, or lack of, they grew up in, it could all change when they get older. And, knowing how to deal with that can be tricky. Even those of us without beliefs are set in our ways. And, we would all like to think our kids will follow suit.
But, that’s rarely the case. As such, there are things you should and shouldn’t do here, as well. After all, your child should never be made to feel guilty for exploring a path different to yours. So, what are the dos and don’ts for when your youngsters start exploring new paths?
DO:
- Encourage freethinking

This is essential. Freethinking should always be something you embrace and encourage. Even if they aren’t thinking about things you understand, tell them how proud they make you. Always encourage them to question other people’s opinions before accepting them. And, yes, that does include yours!
- Facilitate exploration
It’s also down to you to facilitate exploration into this newfound faith. That may mean buying books or taking your child to and from the church. It may even mean signing them up for youth events at a Christian event center like Alton Bay if that’s what they want to do. Whatever desire they express here, do your best to meet it. If you can’t afford something like this now, save up for it, and encourage your child to do the same. This would even help them become financially responsible for their beliefs.
DON’T
- Force your beliefs
If you follow a faith yourself, you may find it difficult not to impose this upon your children. After all, faith forms a huge part of our lives. And, you’ll want your children to benefit from it in the way you do. But, you won’t achieve that by forcing them. Instead, you’ll block their freethinking abilities. You could even set them away from the path they want. That can only breed resentment. Instead, let your children know what you believe, but stress that you support whatever path they choose for themselves.

- Question your child’s curiosity
It’s also essential you don’t get into the habit of questioning your child’s curiosity. This can be difficult, especially if their views are opposed to yours. Debates are common in the religious sector. You’ve likely been healthily questioning other people for a long time. But, challenging your children here will never be healthy or fair. They’re only exploring, and their opinions aren’t yet set in stone or secure. Questioning them at this stage could lead them away from what they really want.
Similar Posts:
- Learn To Pass Wonder-Filled Faith To Your Children
- Reconnect With Your Faith Using These 3 Tips
- The Importance of Faith in Childhood
- Ways To Teach Your Kids To Embrace Failure
- 4 Developmental Tips for Parents