Welcome to our cozy corner of the podcast world, where I discuss the heart of strengthening families with honesty and wisdom. I’ve received several requests from listeners asking me about teaching life skills to children. I put together a topic close to every parent’s heart: teaching children life skills. This week, I share 5 skills parents must teach children. While there are more than five, the five I list are non-negotiable in nurturing well-rounded, happy children.
In an ever-changing and challenging world, teaching your kids about self-control, compassion, consistency, collaboration, and celebration isn’t just beneficial—it’s essential. Join me as I share the 5 Cs parents must teach children. Whether you’re a new parent or trying to navigate the teen years, these truths will help you lay a foundation for a future where your children not only make wise choices but also contribute to it with their unique personalities.
Teaching Self-Control
Think of self-control as a muscle that gets stronger with every use. To build this muscle in your children, begin by guiding them to recognize and name their emotions, reinforcing that it’s perfectly normal to feel everything from anger to excitement.
Introduce them to easy, calming techniques—like taking deep breaths or counting to ten—when they’re swamped by big feelings. Teach them the power of pausing to consider their actions before jumping in. Lead by example, showing self-control in your own actions, and don’t forget to celebrate their successes in managing their impulses. It’s all about taking small steps forward, celebrating progress over perfection.
Teaching Compassion
Compassion is about stepping into someone else’s shoes and feeling with them. Guide your child to sprinkle acts of kindness wherever they go, from lending a hand to a friend to showing love to their pets. Teach your child to actively listen and validate other’s emotions without judgment. Remind them that showing compassion not only benefits others but also brings joy and fulfillment to their own lives.
Teaching Consistency
Consistency is key to building habits and achieving goals. Parents must establish clear expectations and routines for their children, such as bedtime rituals or homework schedules. Be consistent in enforcing rules and consequences, but also provide flexibility for adaptation and growth. Help your child set realistic goals and break them down into manageable steps. Celebrate their progress along the way and encourage perseverance in the face of challenges.
Teaching Collaboration
While learning self-control, compassion, and consistency are important life skills, teaching children to collaborate can impact every aspect of their lives, from school projects to lifelong relationships. Steering children towards team-based activities, where they’ll learn to share their toys and not insist on getting their way, highlights the value of considering other perspectives and chasing shared ambitions. Don’t forget to show them how to celebrate their team spirit and jointly celebrate victories, big and small.
Learning to Celebrate
Imagine your child has poured their heart into piano practice for months and finally takes the stage for their first recital. Instead of solely focusing on their own performance or comparing themselves to others, encourage them to cheer for their fellow musicians. Celebrate not only your child’s hard work and dedication but also the achievements of their peers. Host a small gathering where everyone can share in the joy of each other’s performances, fostering a supportive and uplifting atmosphere. By teaching your child to cheer for others, you instill empathy, kindness, and a sense of community, nurturing their social skills and enriching their overall development.
Teaching kids these 5 Skills: Self-Control, Compassion, Collaboration, Consistency, and Celebration—is an investment in their future happiness and success. By nurturing these essential life skills, we equip our children to navigate challenges, build meaningful relationships, and thrive in a rapidly changing world. So, let’s lead by example, cultivate a nurturing environment, and cheer our children on every step of the way.
It might not seem like your efforts are working, but they are. Remember, God tells us not to grow weary in well-doing. You have years to teach these skills to your children.
Thank you for tuning in to Equipped To Be. Until next time, keep parenting with love and intention.
Is it possible to have full healing after marital infidelity? That’s the question I’m asking my guests, Phil and Priscilla Fretwell. We have a transparent conversation about how, after twenty-eight years of betrayal and infidelity, God put a shattered marriage back together.
Hiding Behind Perfection
When we live a life in secrecy, we often put on the appearance of perfection. Hiding behind perfection can inflict profound damage, both internally and externally. On a personal level, the relentless pursuit of flawlessness often leads to feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, and self-doubt as individuals strive to maintain an unattainable facade. This constant pressure to appear faultless can erode one’s sense of self-worth and authenticity.
The illusion of perfection can strain relationships, breeding resentment and mistrust as loved ones struggle to connect with someone who seems untouchable. Ultimately, the damage wrought by hiding behind perfection extends beyond the individual, permeating the fabric of their relationships and corroding the foundation of genuine human connection.
Healing can’t begin without pulling back the curtain and being honest and transparent with your spouse.
Full Healing Starts with Transparency
God sends us a lifeline to get through the broken trust, anger, and disbelief. “Whatever It Takes Ministries” is a lifeline many couples use to get through the shame, guilt, and pain of infidelity.
I don’t believe it’s possible to achieve freedom and healing without the help of the Lord, humility, commitment, and spiritual intimacy. You must run to the pain, not away from it.
I pray you will be encouraged by this episode! ~Connie
About Phil and Priscilla Fretwell
Phil and Priscilla Fretwell are the co-founders of Savage Marriage Ministries, equipping couples to overcome wounds of their past to find forgiveness, experience freedom, and embrace hope for the future. They are also authors of Savage Marriage: Triumph over Betrayal and Sexual Addiction and Savage Marriage Small Group Study Guide: Overcome Your Past. Fight for Your Future.
How do you handle the storms of life? This week, I focus on “Embracing Storms Not Chasing Them,” where my guest, Tracy Smoak, and I explore how life’s challenges can become stepping stones rather than stumbling blocks. In today’s episode, we discuss the idea of embracing storms and how God uses these difficult moments as catalysts for growth and progress. We’ll particularly focus on three positive ways that God utilizes storms for our good.
The Purpose of Embracing Storms Not Chasing Them
Often, we find ourselves caught in the midst of life’s storms, struggling to navigate through the chaos. However, it’s essential to recognize that these storms serve a purpose in our lives.
God allows storms to enter our lives not to destroy us but to strengthen and refine us. They are opportunities for growth and transformation.
By embracing the storms, we can discover valuable lessons, develop resilience, and deepen our faith in God’s provision and guidance.
Finding Strength in Embracing Storms
One positive way that God uses storms for our good is by building resilience within us. Just as a tree’s roots grow stronger when faced with strong winds, our character can deepen and strengthen through adversity.
In the midst of the storm, we have the opportunity to tap into inner reservoirs of strength and courage that we may not have known existed.
Through these challenging experiences, we learn to rely on God’s strength and find comfort in His presence, knowing that we are never alone.
Uncovereing Hidden Blessings of Embracing Storms
Another way that God uses storms for our good is by revealing hidden blessings amidst the chaos. In the darkest moments, there are often truths waiting to be discovered.
Storms have a way of stripping away the distractions and illusions in our lives, allowing us to refocus on what truly matters.
As we navigate through the storm, we may uncover unexpected blessings, such as deeper relationships, newfound purpose, or a renewed sense of gratitude. The Lord often uses tests and trials to teach us to trust in Him.
As we navigate through life’s storms, may we learn to embrace them with courage and faith, knowing that God is working all things together for our good. It will be messy and hard, but you aren’t alone. Take the time to use them as “leaning” lessons. Leaning on the One who will never leave or forsake you.
By finding strength in adversity, uncovering hidden blessings, and growing through surrender, we can move forward with hope and resilience, ready to embrace whatever storms may come our way.
About Tracy Smoak
A native Floridian, Tracy L. Smoak grew up riding horses and climbing citrus trees. Her passion is to encourage others in their faith journey. Smoak contributes to Guideposts. Ambassador International released her debut novel, Who Brought the Dog to Church?. Bold Vision published her Bible study about encouragement titled Refuge of Grace: Finding Your Safe Place. She authored several books, three with her original color photography, and holds a master’s of education. Also, check out her weekly blog posts, which drop on Saturday.
How can we raise boys to men when society has lost its way? As a mom of three boys, I understand the importance of raising boys in the future of our society. 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, including 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. However, you can shape and guide your boys on their journey to becoming men.
In this honest look at raising boys, we outline essential principles for raising boys to become godly, responsible men of integrity, honesty, and determination. Mark and I share invaluable insights and practical wisdom gleaned from years of experience in mentoring and guiding young men toward a fulfilling life. One 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. And don’t forget to 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 that promotes 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
Establish Clear Values and Boundaries: We help boys navigate challenges in today’s culture by establishing clear values and boundaries from an early age. Discuss with them your family’s values, such as respect, kindness, and empathy, and explain why these values are important to you. Encourage critical thinking and help them analyze media messages, social trends, and peer influences in light of these values. Parents empower boys to make informed decisions and resist negative influences by providing a strong moral compass and clear guidelines.
Promote Resilience and Problem-Solving Skills: Equip boys with the resilience and problem-solving skills they need to navigate challenges in today’s culture effectively. 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 a father-like figure in their lives to look up to and learn from, showing 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.
We help boys build determination and resilience by setting achievable goals and encouraging them to persistently work towards them. Break down larger goals into smaller, manageable tasks, and celebrate their progress along the way. Encourage them to develop a growth mindset, viewing 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 in the face of 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 by founding an advertising agency that grew to national prominence over the course of 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 award-winning author, writer, and conference speaker, he serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Trail Life USA and resides near Greenville, SC, with his wife of over 30 years. They have two sons.
If you find this podcast helpful, please subscribe and leave a review. It’s a great way to support the show and only takes a few seconds. Thank you ~Connie
Have a Question or Want to Book Connie to Speak?
If you have a question about this episode or want to suggest a topic, email me here.
Sometimes, reading the Bible can be intimidating. So, how do we find joy in learning Biblical truths when we don’t understand what we read? That’s the focus of my conversation with Annie Weber as we discuss the astounding truths of the Bible and how spending time studying scripture can help us find joy in our lives.
Being intentional in reading, reflecting, and applying truths and talking with others can help us gain a deeper understanding of the truths found in God’s Word.
Be Intentional
I have to say it: the first step in learning is being intentional. We have to get it on the calendar if we want it to happen.
When we approach reading the Bible with intentionality, we are actively focusing on what a verse or passage means, which can compel us to want to know more. This step may seem small, but life has a way of distracting us from being intentional.
As Psalm 1:2-3 says, “but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers.”
Apply the Truth
Reading something and applying it aren’t the same. The latter requires a different type of action. If we don’t spend time reflecting on the teachings and wisdom found in the Bible, we can’t find the joy we seek.
But, when we practice applying the principles taught in the Bible, it can lead to a sense of fulfillment and joy we’ve never experienced.
James 1:22 advises, “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.”
Finding Community
When we read something that isn’t clear, we either need to ask someone in your community to explain it or do a little more digging. I’ve learned that discussing biblical truths with other believers can deepen my understanding of truth.
Hebrews 10:25 encourages believers to gather together, stating, “not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”
The best way to find joy in the Bible is to break it down into bite-size pieces. Don’t let a lack of understanding keep you from searching for answers that can stop you from discovering astounding truths.
We don’t have to be a scholar or professionally trained to find joy in Biblical truths. Annie never opened a Bible until she was 28 years old. All we need is to have a desire to know more about God’s Word and understand how to apply it to our lives.
About Annie Weber
Annie Weber is known for her bold and uncompromising approach to sharing God’s Word. She lives with a keen awareness of how the Truth of Scripture has led her to put her faith in Christ.
Her refreshing approach combines a love for wordplay, nods to pop culture, humor, and personal anecdotes to illuminate the teachings of Jesus and His character. These devotions, brimming with wit and authenticity, offer a unique lens through which to understand the heart of God’s message.
If you find this podcast helpful, please subscribe and leave a review. It’s a great way to support the show and only takes a few seconds. Thank you ~Connie
Have a Question or Want to Book Connie to Speak?
If you have a question about this episode or want to suggest a topic, email me here.
The true beauty of life can be found in the value of community. Communities stitch together threads of warmth, creating a cozy haven where every mom finds a place to belong and shares a heartfelt connection. Beyond the solo journey, these communities become like a close-knit family, wrapping us in understanding, support, and a sense of togetherness. In this episode, I want to talk about the need for community in our lives and a place for nurturing our personal growth, resilience, and the genuine joy that comes from being a part of something so personal and meaningful. Join me in celebrating the invaluable role of community as we navigate the intricate patterns of mom life and find comfort in the personal connections that make it all worthwhile.
My grandmother, a skilled seamstress and quilt-maker, used to transform scraps of fabric into intricate quilts. As she knitted together the seemingly unrelated pieces, a picture of the art of community came to life – how every person, much like those fabric scraps, contributes a unique element to create a beautiful and purposeful whole. In her hands, each piece found belonging, and in the same way, our diverse lives, when brought together, create a rich and meaningful bond that brings immeasurable value to the collective story of community. The story of a life lived in seasons.
Is Community for Introverts or Extroverts?
Both! That’s the real beauty of being part of a community. It’s a beautiful mix of introverts and extroverts. Honestly, both benefit from being part of a community.
A community can fill a need to be connected to others with similar interests regardless of personality type.
A community helps us develop better social skills.
A community allows introverts a place to feel like they fit in and where extroverts can be heard.
Finding Your Community
Communities become our cherished gardens, offering warmth and support. From tightly-knit local groups or the wide embrace of online connections, these various community types hold the power to make our personal journeys all the more vibrant and meaningful.
Let go of your expectations of what your community can give you and figure out how you can add value by serving them.
Don’t wait to be invited by a friend; instead, start something and invite others to join you.
Accept the imperfections of any community because they won’t fill all your needs or wants. It’s a delicate balance of filling others and being filled.
Where Do I Start?
The types of communities we choose to be part of can shape our story, providing connections we wouldn’t have or experiences we would miss out on, but they do add value to our lives. So consider your interests, available times, and what you need from a community.
Here are a few to get you thinking:
Family
School- teaching classes, leading co-ops, serving moms, setting up study groups
Church and faith organizations groups
Sports – specific teams or individual sports
Online groups
Specific interests
As I wrap up the value of community, let it be a gentle reminder that your place in these shared spaces is not just welcomed but essential for a variety of reasons. In the seasons of motherhood, finding your community is like discovering a comforting quilt that wraps you in understanding, support, and shared laughter. Embrace the power of connections, for within these communities, you’ll not only find solace but also the strength to thrive. So, be intentional to seek out your tribe, knit your stories together, and revel in the beauty of a community that celebrates the unique tapestry of motherhood – yours included. You belong, and your presence is a vital thread in the intricate design of collective joy and support.
Like my grandmother’s quilt reveals a story of each piece of fabric so does your involvement in community.
I’m so grateful you are part of the Equipped To Be community. ~Connie
