Heath Brothers Archives

Jump starting parent/kid connections.

3 Comments / September 23, 2010

I am currently reading a book by the Heath Brothers called Switch. In this book they talk about helping people with change. Finding the switch in a change situation. One of the things they said that has gotten me thinking in regards to family ministry is something they call shrink the change. The basic idea […]

Jump starting parent/kid connections. Read More »

3 responses to “Jump starting parent/kid connections.”

Greg Baird

September 23, 2010

Sam I agree that parents don't always know where to start or feel adequate, whether it be specific to milestones or their kids' spiritual formation in general. A couple ideas I've used:
* Similar to what you suggested, offer church facilitated "milestone"events. Birthday/spiritual birthday parties (we did this monthly & it was a huge success), parent/child dedications (open for any age child), or "Rite of Passage" event for young men. By facilitating it through the church, the pressure is off the parents. Give them steps to take to engage in the process, then have them attend & participate.
* Provide step by step instructions for a milestone event at home. Perhaps offer different instructions for the same event dependent on the kids' age.
* Create a two or 3 part milestone event. Start at the church…complete at home or vice-versa. Or church/home/church. Full instructions, vision casting, etc.
Wow, there's so much not said in any of these ideas (the whole vision, equipping & partnering angle in depth), but you get the idea – probably things you've already thought of.
Look forward to other thoughts on this. Thanks, Sam!

samluce

September 23, 2010

Hey thanks for being first.

Love your ideas on this. I want to start with one event and build momentum toward a process. I think some parents don't start the process or are intimidated because their kid has received Christ and was dedicated or baptized as a baby. Where can we help them jumpstart the process? Or what about a new family with a 5 7 and 9 year old how can we get them involved in the process.

sarah

September 26, 2010

LOVE this idea —— what a great idea bro!!!!! i AGree with you 100% … i think this would be a HUGE key for many parents! What are your ideas for milestones parents are already doing?????