Engaging in political conversations with kids can seem daunting, but it’s an important part of raising informed, thoughtful children. Guiding your kids in political discussions helps them understand the world around them and prepares them for their future roles as active citizens. In this first part of our series, I’ll explain why helping our children navigate political conversations matters and how to prepare your child for these important discussions.
In our fast-paced world, our kids are constantly seeing and hearing political news. As parents, it’s so important for us to help them understand what’s going on around them. By talking about politics in the home, we’re not just teaching them about their rights and responsibilities as citizens; we’re also helping them develop critical thinking skills. These skills are essential for making wise decisions throughout their lives. For example, when we explain why voting matters and how civic participation works, we’re setting the stage for them to become informed and engaged adults.
I remember one family dinner when Tom and I were discussing who we were going to vote for in an upcoming election. My ten-year-old, with that curious look in his eyes, asked, “Why is voting so important?” It was one of those moments where I realized the impact of our everyday conversations. We talked about how every vote helps choose leaders who make decisions affecting our community, like funding for schools and maintaining parks. This simple discussion sparked his curiosity about how things work and made him feel more confident and informed. I was delighted to see his interest grow right before my eyes. This was the beginning of many political conversations I had with my kids.
Preparing Your Children for Political Conversations
Age-Appropriate Political Conversations
When discussing politics with children, it’s essential to tailor the conversation to their age. Younger children need simple explanations, while older kids can handle more complex discussions. For instance, explaining voting to a six-year-old might involve comparing it to choosing a favorite ice cream flavor, whereas, with teenagers, you can explain the mechanics of elections and the impact of policies on their lives.
How to Simplify Complex Topics for Younger Kids
One of the biggest challenges in discussing politics with young children is simplifying complex topics. Breaking down information into smaller, understandable pieces can make a big difference. Use analogies and examples from their daily lives to explain difficult concepts. For example, you can describe taxes as a piggy bank where everyone puts in money to help pay for things everyone uses, like parks and schools. Visual aids like drawings and charts can also be incredibly helpful in making these ideas more tangible.
Political Conversations Teach Kids Critical Thinking
Encouraging children to ask questions and think critically about political issues is vital. Teach them to evaluate information, consider different perspectives, and form their own opinions. Provide examples of questions they can ask, such as “Why do people have different opinions on this issue?” or “How does this law affect our community?” Role-playing scenarios where they practice discussing these questions can build their confidence and understanding.
Role-Playing Scenarios
Practice makes perfect, and role-playing political conversations can be a fun and educational activity. Create scenarios where your child can practice discussing political topics respectfully and thoughtfully. This helps them prepare for real-life conversations and teaches them how to handle disagreements constructively.
Wrapping it Up
Engaging children in political conversations is a rewarding endeavor that prepares them for future civic engagement. By discussing why these conversations matter and how to approach them appropriately, we lay the groundwork for informed, responsible citizens. Stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll delve into how children can handle political conversations with friends and family. Remember, these discussions are not just about understanding politics; they’re about fostering empathy, critical thinking, and active participation in our communities.
Welcome to Healthy Back to School Habits Part 2 with my friend, Loisann Fowler of Coach in Tandem! As the new school year approaches, we want to ensure our children are set up for success both in and out of the classroom. Today, Loisann and I will discuss three crucial areas: exercise and movement, managing stress, and relational downtime. Let’s explore some practical, easy-to-implement tips that will make a big difference in your child’s mental and emotional well-being.
Meeting our goals can be difficult when school picks back up. That’s why now is a perfect time to consider these five easy foundational non-negotiables that we can incorporate into our homes before school starts.
In part 2 of Healthy Back to School Habits, Loisann and I focus on exercise and movement, stress management, and relational downtime. Let’s start with exercise and movement.
Healthy Back to School Habits: Exercise and Movement
What do you mean when you say exercise and movement? It’s simple. It means making sure our children get up and move around. Today’s kids are sitting for far to long and need to get up and move for optimal health. Movement nourishes your body and gives your child energy. How do we know if our children are getting enough exercise?
Movement improves academic performance. It might take a little time initially, but you will quickly see results when your children put down their devices, turn off the TV, and move their bodies.
Mental and Emotional Clarity.
Physical development. Children who move and exercise on a regular basis build strong bones, increase muscle strength, and improve their quality of sleep.
Studies show that children who exercise and move perform better, think clearer, and experience a general sense of well-being.
Stress Management
Stress is part of life. Helping children learn how to manage stress well will bring peace and calmness to your children’s lives.
Establish a routine. A sense of security is provided when children have a daily routine. It also allows children to feel like they have some control over their lives.
Make time for physical activity. Physical activity releases endorphins which are natural mood lifters. Aim for 30 minutes a day, and you will see great improvements in your children.
Teach relaxation techniques. Children who learn how to relax will do better at managing stressful situations. One effective way is to teach children proper breathing techniques.
Simply practicing these three techniques will help our children stay calm under stressful situations.
Relational Downtime
Understanding why children need downtime built into their lives equips us with the knowledge we need to make this a priority.
Strengthens family bonds. Spending quality time with family members fosters a sense of security and belonging.
Enhances Emotional Intelligence. Relational downtime provides opportunities for children to express their feelings and understand the emotions of others.
Promotes relaxation and reduces stress. Unstructured, relaxed time with loved ones helps children unwind and decompress.
Encourages positive behavior. Positive interactions with family members serve as a model for appropriate behavior.
Supports Cognitive Development. Engaging in meaningful conversations and activities with family members stimulates cognitive growth.
Spending quality time with family is important for kids. It helps them feel secure and connected, knowing they have a strong support system. When families spend time together, kids learn to express their feelings and understand others’ emotions, which boosts their social skills and empathy. This downtime also gives kids a chance to relax and unwind, reducing stress and anxiety. Positive interactions during these moments teach kids good behavior and values.
Healthy Back to School Habits Matter
The little habits you implement today will yield huge rewards over time. Your children rely on you to teach and train them in the way they should go. You create an environment where they can truly flourish by creating healthy back-to-school habits, providing exercise time, managing stress, and allowing time in their day to focus on relationship building.
We are so glad you’re committed to helping your children grow and thrive. I pray our Healthy Back to School Habits series blessed and encouraged you. Remember, every small step you take makes a big difference. You’ve got this!
About Loisann Fowler
Loisann Flower is a nationally board-certified functional medicine health coach. She helps people from teens to 90-somethings uncover and achieve their highest wellness in body, mind, and spirit. There is a gap between our level of health today and where we want to be. Loisann’s coaching bridges that gap, discovering lasting practices for a strong and energetic life.
Welcome to Healthy Back to School Habits Part 1 with my friend, Loisann Fowler of Coach in Tandem! As the new school year approaches, we want to ensure our children are set up for success both in and out of the classroom. Today, Loisann and I will discuss two crucial areas: improving your child’s nutrition and ensuring they get quality sleep. Let’s explore some practical, easy-to-implement tips that will make a big difference in your child’s health and well-being.
I know life is busy, and meeting our healthy habits goals can be difficult when school picks back up. That’s why now is a perfect time to consider five easy foundational non-negotiables we can incorporate into our homes before school starts.
In part one of Healthy Back to School Habits, Loisann and I focus on eating real foods and getting quality sleep. Let’s start with eating real food.
Healthy Back to School Habits: Eat Real Food
What do you mean when you say eat real food? It’s simple. It means foods with no labels. No additives, food coloring, or added sugars. According to Mark Hyman, there is no such thing as “junk food.” There is junk, and there is food. What we are talking about here is real food. Food that nourishes your body and gives your child energy. How do we know if food is good?
Check labels. It might take a little time initially, but you will quickly find products that are better options for your children.
Choose fresh fruits and vegetables to have available for lunches and snack time.
Limit processed, pastries, or boxed goods as much as possible.
Introduce new natural food every day to expand your children’s palates.
Studies show that children who eat real food perform better, think clearer, and experience a general sense of well-being. What foods should our children eat?
Include 3 Foods Everyday
When we create our weekly meal plan, let’s focus on serving:
High-quality proteins
Healthy fats
Good Carbohydrates
By simply starting with these three food groups, we can have peace of mind knowing our children’s bodies are receiving the nutrients they need to thrive.
Healthy Back to School Habits: Quality Sleep
Understanding why children need quality sleep and getting them to get that sleep
Sleep allows our brain to repair damaged cells.
Hormones are rebalanced and reset during sleep cycles.
Sleep allows our brain to destress from the activities of the day.
Muscle and bone strength occur during sleep.
Emotional regulation happens while we sleep.
Knowledge is stored in our long-term memory when we sleep.
One of the best ways to ensure our children function optimally is to ensure they sleep for an appropriate number of hours.
Healthy Back to School Habits Matter
The little habits you implement today will yield huge rewards in your children’s future. Remember, they trust you to take care of them. Children don’t instinctively know what is good for them. You create an environment where they can truly thrive by creating healthy back-to-school habits, serving your children real food, and teaching them the importance of getting adequate sleep.
Thank you for joining us today! We’re so glad you’re here and committed to helping your child succeed. Stay tuned for Part 2 of our Healthy Back to School Habits series, where we’ll discuss three more easy, healthy habits to support your child’s success. Remember, every small step you take makes a big difference. You’ve got this!
About Loisann Fowler
Loisann Flower is a nationally board-certified functional medicine health coach. She helps people from teens to 90-somethings uncover and achieve their highest wellness in body, mind, and spirit. There is a gap between our level of health today and where we want to be. Loisann’s coaching bridges that gap, discovering lasting practices for a strong and energetic life.
Children need structure and boundaries to develop emotionally and psychologically. These give children the security they need to gain confidence and explore the world around them.
Establishing clear expectations, consistent rules, and reliable discipline helps children understand what is expected of them and provides a sense of order and predictability. Structure and boundaries are foundational to raising healthy children.
“Establishing structure and boundaries for children is an act of love that fosters security, promotes self-discipline, and paves the way for them to thrive emotionally, socially, and spiritually.” Connie Albers
Clear Expectations
Setting clear expectations is key to helping children understand what you expect from them in different situations. Clearly explaining what behaviors are okay and which aren’t makes it easier for kids to navigate their world.
This reduces their uncertainty and anxiety about what they should do. For example, when you talk about the importance of sharing toys with siblings or friends, it helps them learn the values and social norms you want to teach. Having consistent rules reinforces these expectations, providing a solid foundation for their behavior.
Consistent Rules
Consistency in rules helps children understand and accept the boundaries set for them. When rules are always the same, kids learn to predict the consequences of their actions, which makes them feel secure and builds trust. But when rules change often, it can confuse and upset them because they don’t know what to expect.
For example, if bedtime is set for 8 PM on weekdays and you stick to it, your child will get into a good routine and understand the importance of a good night’s sleep for their health and well-being.
This consistent approach to rules naturally leads to reliable discipline, where children learn that actions have predictable consequences.
Reliable Discipline
Reliable discipline is about guiding our children with love and fairness. It’s not about punishment but about teaching them that actions have consequences. By consistently applying consequences when rules are broken, we help our children understand accountability and the importance of making good choices.
This kind yet consistent approach helps them learn that their actions matter, encouraging them to follow the rules and understand the value of responsibility.
Reliable discipline sets the stage for a sense of order in a child’s life. Children who see consistent consequences for their actions understand how their behavior affects stability. This helps them navigate their world with confidence, knowing what to expect and how to act, fostering a secure and growth-friendly environment.
Sense of Order and Predicability
Providing your child with structure creates a comforting sense of order and predictability, which is vital for their emotional and psychological well-being. Children who understand what to expect in their daily routines feel more secure and less anxious. This predictability allows them to focus on learning and growing instead of worrying about the unknown.
This sense of order, achieved through consistent structure and boundaries, highlights these practices’ numerous benefits to a child’s emotional and psychological development.
Benefits of Establishing Structure and Boundaries
Providing your child with structure and boundaries is one of the most loving and supportive things you can do. It helps them feel secure, guided, and ready to flourish in every aspect of their lives.
Emotional Security
Behavior Regulation
Develop Social Skills
Cultivate Independence and Confidence
By setting clear expectations, consistent rules, and reliable discipline, parents and caregivers create a structured environment that supports a child’s overall development and helps them grow into well-adjusted and capable individuals.
In a world that often feels disconnected, it’s crucial to teach belonging to your children. A strong sense of belonging is a feeling and a vital part of a child’s emotional and psychological development. When children feel they belong, they grow up with the confidence, security, and resilience needed to navigate life’s challenges.
At the heart of belonging is wanting to know who wants me. But it’s deeper than who wants you; it’s who wants you for who you are. Not for what you can give them but how you make them feel. During this episode, I will share practical tips to help you foster a sense of belonging to your children. So, grab a smoothie, relax, and pay close attention to what you can do to teach belonging and how our children will benefit from us taking the time to build connections your children will hold on to beyond the years of living at home.
Easy-to-Apply Techniques for Everyday Life
Incorporating simple practices into your daily routine can significantly enhance your child’s sense of belonging. Start with small, consistent actions that show love and appreciation. For example, make it a point to share meals together as often as possible. Use these times to talk about your day, share stories, and laugh together. Additionally, create small rituals, like bedtime stories or weekend outings, that your children can look forward to. Though seemingly minor, these moments build a strong foundation of connection and security.
Supporting Children Through Challenges Transitions and challenges are inevitable in life, but a strong sense of belonging can help children navigate these times with resilience. Be there for your children during difficult moments, providing consistent support and comfort. Let them know that the family is a safe haven where they can find solace and strength. This consistent support reinforces their sense of belonging and teaches them the value of familial bonds.
Before we talk about nurturing a creative child, you need to know how they think, feel, and experience the world. If you take time to learn some simple characteristics, you’ll enjoy the rewards of watching them grow and develop their craft.
each-belonging-to-your-children
The Importance of Belonging
Belonging is more than just a warm, fuzzy feeling. It’s a cornerstone of emotional security. Children who feel they belong are more likely to develop a positive self-image and higher self-esteem. They also tend to perform better academically and have healthier social interactions. When you nurture a sense of belonging, you’re setting your child up for long-term confidence and joy.
3 Practical Steps to Foster Belonging
Creating a sense of belonging within the family is essential for a child’s emotional and psychological development. When our children feel deeply connected and valued at home, they are more likely to develop confidence, security, and resilience. By integrating practical steps into your daily routine, you can foster an environment where your children feel loved, understood, and important. Here are some simple yet effective strategies to help you build a strong sense of belonging in your family. I list several practical ways you can cultivate belonging in your children in the podcast, but below are three I want to focus on.
Quality Time: Spend regular, intentional time with your children. Engage in activities that they enjoy and that promote family bonding. This shows them that they are valued and matter.
Family Traditions: Establish and maintain family traditions. These rituals create a sense of continuity and shared experience, reinforcing the family bond.
Open Communication: Encourage open and honest communication within the family. Ensure your children feel heard and understood, which helps them feel like integral parts of the family unit.
By incorporating these practical steps into your daily life, you create a nurturing and supportive environment where your children can thrive. Fostering a sense of belonging enriches their present lives and equips them with the emotional tools they need for the future. Remember, your daily small, consistent actions can make a significant difference in your child’s sense of security and connectedness. Let’s work together to build strong family bonds and create a home where every member feels valued and integral.
Creating a Supportive Environment
Creating a supportive environment for your children means more than just providing for their physical needs. It involves fostering emotional security and open communication. This environment helps children feel safe and valued, which is essential for their overall well-being. For instance, make it a habit to have regular family meetings where everyone can express their thoughts and feelings. These meetings can be a powerful tool in making each family member feel included and important. How you create this environment will be unique to your family.
Easy-to-Apply Techniques for Everyday Life
Incorporating simple practices into your daily routine can significantly enhance your child’s sense of belonging. Start with small, consistent actions that show love and appreciation. For example, make it a point to share meals together as often as possible. Use these times to talk about your day, share stories, and laugh together. Additionally, create small rituals, like bedtime stories or weekend outings, that your children can look forward to. Though seemingly minor, these moments build a strong foundation of connection and security.
Supporting Children Through Challenges Transitions and challenges are inevitable in life, but a strong sense of belonging can help children navigate these times with resilience. Be there for your children during difficult moments, providing consistent support and comfort. Let them know that the family is a safe haven where they can find solace and strength. This consistent support reinforces their sense of belonging and teaches them the value of familial bonds.
By teaching your children belonging, you enrich their lives and equip them with the emotional tools they need for the future. These strategies and practices help build a nurturing environment where children can thrive, knowing they are a valued part of something bigger than themselves.
Do you wonder how to raise boys to become strong, godly men? Men who will one day lead their family, a company, a community, or maybe even a country? Raising boys to be risk-takers, adventurers, innovators, and creative is hard when we live in a culture that does more to confuse boys than help them.
This topic was so popular that I decided to re-air Raising Boys with Mark Hancock of Trail Life USA.
How can we raise boys to be men when society has lost its way? As a mom of three boys, I understand how important raising boys is to our society’s future. That’s why I invited Mark Hancock, CEO of Trial Life USA, to join me to share what parents, grandparents, coaches, and ministry leaders can do.
Too many boys are turning to virtual worlds of television, video games, digital media, and the internet to find realms they can conquer and areas where they can excel. The result of this virtual conquest is often apathy, apparent rebellion, or outright resistance to real-world challenges. But you can shape and guide your boys in their journey of becoming a man.
In this honest look at raising boys, we lay out essential principles for raising boys to become godly, responsible men of integrity, honesty, and determination. We share invaluable insights and practical wisdom gleaned from years of experience mentoring and guiding young men toward a fulfilling life filled with meaning and purpose.
Raising Boys of Integrity and Honesty
Lead by Example: Boys learn a great deal from observing the behavior of adults, particularly their parents and other influential figures. Model honesty and integrity in your own actions and interactions. Be transparent about your own mistakes and demonstrate how to take responsibility and make amends when necessary. By consistently embodying these values, you provide a powerful example for boys to emulate.
Encourage Open Communication: Foster an environment of open communication where boys feel safe to express themselves honestly and without fear of judgment. Encourage them to openly share their thoughts, feelings, and experiences and actively listen to what they have to say. Engage in discussions about moral dilemmas, ethical decision-making, and the importance of honesty in relationships. Promoting open dialogue creates opportunities for boys to develop a deeper understanding of integrity and honesty and how these values apply to various aspects of their lives.
Navigating Challenges in Today’s Culture
Boys need to develop determination and resilience by setting achievable goals and persistently working towards them. To support this, we guide them in breaking down larger goals into smaller, manageable tasks, and we celebrate their progress along the way. By encouraging a growth mindset, we help them view challenges as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles to success. Instilling a sense of purpose and direction enables boys to stay focused and resilient, even when faced with setbacks.
Promote Resilience and Problem-Solving Skills: Equip boys with resilience and problem-solving skills to effectively navigate challenges in today’s culture. Encourage them to view setbacks as opportunities for growth and learning. Teach them coping strategies for managing stress, adversity, and peer pressure, such as deep breathing, positive self-talk, and seeking support from trusted adults. By fostering resilience and problem-solving skills, parents empower boys to face challenges with confidence, adaptability, and perseverance.
Raising Boys to Godly Men
Boys need a father or fatherlike figure in their lives to look up to and show them what it means to be a man. Study after study backs that up. Boys learn how to be persistent by providing supportive feedback and encouragement.
Boys need to develop determination and resilience by setting achievable goals and persistently working towards them. We guide them in breaking down larger goals into smaller, manageable tasks and celebrate their progress along the way. Encouraging a growth mindset helps them view challenges as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles to success. By instilling a sense of purpose and direction, boys learn to stay focused and resilient, even when faced with setbacks
We need to offer boys supportive feedback and encouragement to foster determination and resilience. Recognize their efforts and progress, emphasizing their strengths and resilience in overcoming obstacles. Encourage them to reflect on their experiences, identify lessons learned, and celebrate their achievements, no matter how small. By providing a nurturing and affirming environment, boys develop the confidence and resilience to persevere through difficulties and pursue their goals with determination.
About Mark Hancock
Mark T. Hancock began his career founding an advertising agency that grew to national prominence over fifteen years. His conversion to Christ led him into ministry as a Youth and College Pastor, Associate Pastor, Homeless Ministry Director, and Global Event Director for an international ministry, organizing events on five continents.
An author, award-winning writer, and conference speaker, he serves as Chief Executive Officer of Trail Life USA and lives near Greenville, SC, with his wife of over 30 years. They have two sons.
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