How to Start off Children on the Way They Should Go

Temi Michael-O

Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it. Proverbs 22:6 (NIV)

This scripture is both a commandment and a promise/covenant. God is faithful to do His part. Are we intentional about doing our part? Parents have the responsibility to start off their children or train up their children on the way they should go. God, the creator knows the critical nature of the early years of parenting. God knows the lifelong impact of our early childhood experiences. Training up a child helps parents maximize the early years of brain development where the neural network that shapes personality, attachment styles, and sense of self is established.

Sadly, intergenerational trauma, dysfunctional parenting patterns, Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs), adverse childhood experiences, parental conflicts, traumatic birth experiences, and other factors make it difficult for parents to start off their children on the way they should go. Here is the good news– If you are a new or expecting parent, you can overcome these barriers and prevent them from harming your children! You can become Watch the video below for more information.

Visit littleonespiecmh.com

How can I start off my children in the way they should go?

Here are a few important ways:

  • Train for parenthood: We can’t train up a child right if we do not train nor continue training for the job. God has given us His Word and people to support our parenting. Make the most of them.
  • Prioritize your spiritual growth and mental health: You cannot give what we do not have. As you prioritize spirit, soul, and body care, you are empowered to take care of our children.
  • Prioritize your children’s spiritual growth: Never forget that the ultimate goal is to raise children who love God. Every other thing is secondary. Don’t primarily focus on physical developmental milestones. Spiritual milestones are important as well. Meditate on 2 Timothy 3:15 (NIV)~ “and how from infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.”
  • Prioritize your marital relationship (if married): Your marital relationship affects your parenting and your child’s development.
  • Be intentional about addressing parenting issues.
  • Invest in Christian parenting books/courses: If you do not want to make costly mistakes, learn from those who have gone ahead of you or those whose life reflect what you desire for your child.

My people are destroyed from lack of knowledge. “Because you have rejected knowledge, I also reject you as my priests; because you have ignored the law of your God, I also will ignore your children. Hosea 4:6 (NIV)

Would you like to become a member of God’s family? Please say the prayer below and let me know about it here.

Say this: Heavenly Father,
I acknowledge that I am a sinner. I believe you exist and you sent Jesus to die for me. I receive your love and forgiveness. Reveal yourself to me. I accept Jesus as my Lord and Savior. Amen

Welcome to God’s family!

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Author: Temi Michael-O

Temitope Michael-Olaniran (Fafore) is a wife and #boymom. She is the author of A Christian Mother’s Creed. She created this space to share spiritual experiences of motherhood, provide emotional support to families and develop a virtual community where Christian mothers can share Biblical viewpoints on parenting and other aspects of life.

As a lifelong learner with a passion for mental health, Temi is a PhD student (Infant and Early Childhood Development specializing in Mental Health and Developmental Disorders). She is a Perinatal, Infant, and Early Childhood Mental Health consultant, Certified New Parent Educator, trained Postpartum Doula, and U.S. Army veteran.

Click here to contact Temi

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