Parent Workshop October 30, 2011

 Our family’s first church is in our home.  Children who live in homes where parents practice their faith are 300 times more likely to continue their faith lives as adults.

 We live in a secularized culture of “busyness”.  Parents juggle jobs, marriages, children, finances, friends, etc.  Teens are pushed, pulled and overcommitted with school, sports, music, friends, college prep, etc.

What demographic, in the worldwide population, is reported to have the highest suicide rate? American Teenagers

Prayer Inspiratio n Wisdom Connection Communication Love

Parent: “How do I make my child understand?” Teen: “You don’t understand me!”

 Quality Time  Gifts  Words of Affirmation  Physical Touch  Acts of Service

 Undivided Attention  Really being there  Distractions  Postponed Dates

 Visible, tangible symbol of love  Thoughtfulness, effort  Missed birthday  Thoughtless gift

 Verbalize Affection  Compliments, praise, support  “I love you.”  Insults, Complaints  Silence

 Hugs, pat on the back  Closeness  Neglect  Abuse

 Favors  Ease burden or responsibility  Laziness  Create more work