Beating Boredom This Summer – MBFLP 249

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Summertime is always a challenge – with the change of routine, it’s easy for our kids (or ourselves) to feel adrift. This year, with the ongoing COVID-19 crisis, even our backup program may be on hold or cancelled. What can you do to make the most of summertime with your family, when vacation may be postponed, summer camp or youth sports shut down, and even the local pool or gym is off limits? This episode, we talk about things you might consider with your kids and mate, to make the most of the enforced time together this year!


Who knew, when the schools and universities closed in March, that we’d still be home in June and July, with summer vacation upended as well? Camps and programs for missions, music, sports, and more, have been closed by the virus. Travel is still restricted. Entertainment facilities, beaches, parks, and more are shut down or curtailed. Our own son had his honeymoon reservations canceled by the hotel the week of the wedding! (Thankfully, he was able to make other arrangements!)

So many of the things we take for granted and do every summer are in jeopardy – or already gone. Last week, we spoke with a radio host about ideas for “engaging our kids” during this time. There are ways to build memories and build skills – and there are also opportunities to build (or rebuild) relationships, if we’ll take the step.

A New Feature for the Program

Hal was inspired by World Radio’s program “The World and Everything In It” and their listener participation in the daily news podcast. This episode, we’re pleased to announce a new opportunity on our own program – our new “Listener Response Line” at (919) 295-0321. This is our voice mail where you can leave a comment, a question, or a suggestion. We’d love to hear from you!

Relationships and Holiday Stress – MBFLP 239

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

 

The song says, “It’s the most wonderful time of the year,” but for many families, it’s also the most stressful. How can you accomplish all you need to do during the holidays, without putting a strain on your family relationships? And how do you deal with visiting family members who may be bringing their own kind of stress into your celebration? Join us for this timely discussion heading into Thanksgiving!

Passages We Referenced

She opens her mouth with wisdom,
And on her tongue is the law of kindness(Proverbs 31:26 NKJV)

So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath; for the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God. (James 1:19-20 NKJV)

 

Help! My Daughter is Getting Married

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Finish Well Radio Show, Podcast #088, Help! My Daughter’s Getting Married, with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Radio Network

Help! My Daughter’s Getting Married

In “Help! My Daughter’s Getting Married,” episode #088, Meredith Curtis talks to Moms of newly engaged couples who wonder what on earth they need to do next and over the next
few months to help their daughter pull off a wedding, since most wedding coordinators are
mothers of the bride. From the practical to the relational, you will receive wisdom from a
Mom whose coordinated two weddings so far.

 

 

 


Powerline Productions Bible Studies

 

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Being World Changers, Raising World Changers!

We offer books and ebooks to help you homeschool to the Glory of God!

 

 

 

 


Show Notes

You just found out!

Celebrate, invest emotionally, make a plan with the couple

Money

Make a Budget

Avoid Debt

Priorities (What matters most? What do you want to remember?)

Venue

Choose, Reserve, Downpayment for

Venues/Choose Date

Ceremony—Church, Garden, Other?

Reception—Fellowship Hall,

More Things to Line Up

Pastor/Premarital Counseling

Caterer or Do Food Self

Photographer

Clothing: Wedding Gown, Girl’s Dresses, Guys Tuxes

Bride & Groom Choose Support Team (wedding party)

Mom, you choose your support team because usually the wedding coordinator is you!

Decorations

What “feel” do you want?

Start a Pinterest

Details

Plan Ceremony/Itinerary

Plan Reception/Itinerary

Emcee

Music

Invitations

Photographer

Bridal Registry

Shower

Bridesmaid Luncheon

Resources

Ultimate Christian Wedding Planner by Meredith CurtisBefore the Vows are Made - Premarital Counseling Workbook for Engaged Couples by Pastor Mike and Meredith CurtisReal Men 102: Freedom, Courtship, Marriage, & FamilyGod's Girls 103: Courship, Marriage, and the Christian Family High School Class

How to Care for Aging Parents

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Finish Well Radio Show, Podcast #086, How to Care for Aging Parents with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Radio NetworkHow to Care for Aging Parents

In “How to Care for Aging Parents,” episode #086, Meredith Curtis encourages homeschooling parents whose parents are aging and needing their help and care. Sharing her own story, Meredith explains how to make wise choices, deal with the emotional turmoil, and make the most of a challenging time in your homeschool adventure. God has a plan! He also has enough grace to meet every need!

 

 

 

 


High School Curriculum by Powerline Productions

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Being World Changers, Raising World Changers!

We offer books and ebooks to help you homeschool to the Glory of God!

 

 


Show Notes

The arm of the Lord to protect Mom

Long years of sickness/Arriving at Hospital to see Dad, Grandmother in ER

Vacation at Ron Jon

Caught Between Two Worlds

Older woman caring for parents vs. young mom homeschooling children

Needing Momma & Daddy

Our Experience

What are the majors? Bare bones homeschooling, Seven R’s

Read, math, write, then add rest

Teachable moments at hospital

Greatest lesson—honoring parents

Unable to do it on own, learning to rely on the Lord

Grace, Always need Him, but can be self-sufficient

Receive forgiveness

Example of God’s Protection: Windshield I-95

Encouragement

Youcan’t do everything

Find God’s Priorities

Stay Cheerful—Glad Game

Perfusely Thank Children

Receive Help

Have Folks Pray for You

Major on Majors/Minor on Minors

 

Resources

Seven R's of Homeschooling by Meredith CurtisLovely to BeholdJesus Fill My Heart and Home by Meredith CurtisA Wise Woman Builds by Meredith Curtis

 

Don’t Waste Your Life

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Finish Well Radio Show, Podcast #085, Don't Waste Your Life with Meredith Curtis, on the Ultimate Homeschool Radio Network

Don’t Waste Your Life

 

In “Don’t Waste Your Life,” episode #085, Meredith Curtis challenges teens to drop out the dull and routine to live a life worth living. She addresses lies that keep us from living joy-filled lives and how to exchange half-hearted hanging on for abundant zeal and passion. A life worth living is possible at 15 and at 50 if the desire is in your heart. So, shake off the dust, and let’s move on to the adventure God has for us!

 

 

 

 


PLP Ad - Galatians 5:22-23

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Being World Changers, Raising World Changers!

We offer books and ebooks to help you homeschool to the Glory of God!

 

 


Show Notes

Dull, Drudgery, Naps, & Video Games vs. A Life Worth Living!

My Story

Rebellion

Repentance

Rebirth

Real Living

Drawing Close to God

Pressing In

Pressing On

With All Your Heart

Overcoming Obstacles

Internet

The Opposite Sex

Gossip, Negative Talk

Self-Pity

Wrong Friends

Battle Ready

Spiritual Weapons

The Battle in the Mind

Standing Firm in Who You are in Christ

You are LOVED!

A Life Worth Living

Tell People about Jesus

Challenge Friends to Grow in the Lord

Serve

Healthy Relationships

Zeal/Passion/Energy

Outlets for Emotion: Music/Art/Poetry

HARD WORK:  Projects/Chores/Home Business

Family Ministry

J.O.Y.

 

Resources

Real Men 101: Godly ManhoodGod's Girls Brand New Life Bible StudyJoyful and Successful Homeschooling by Meredith CurtisReal Men 103: Leadership

 

25 Movies Families Can Watch Together

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Finish Well Radio, Podcast #084, 25 Movies Families Can Watch Together, with Meredith Curtis, on the Ultimate Homeschool Radio Network

25 Movies Families Can Watch Together

In “25 Movies that Families Can Watch Together,” episode #084, Meredith Curtis shares some of her family’s favorite movies and how they have impacted their lives and hearts. From faith builders to tear-jerkers, these movies have made us laugh and cry. Each of these movies also lead to great family discussions right after or days later. Some of them (like Cars) bring an historical time to life. Others impart a life lesson or just make us laugh.

 

 

 

 


Powerline Productions, Inc. Families Learning Together American History Books

 

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Being World Changers, Raising World Changers!

We offer books and ebooks to help you homeschool to the Glory of God!

 

 


Show Notes

Our Family Movie Nights

Movies often lead to discussions afterward or even weeks/months later.

Chariots of Fire

This is the story of Eric Liddell, a gold medal winner in the 1924 Olympics. His devotion to the Lord is exempliary and inspiring! The movie also follows another runner who must overcome anti-Semetic prejudice in his quest for winning.

This awarding winning movie (Academy Award for Best Picture) was released in 1981.

Return to the Hiding Place

One of my favorite movies, Return to the  Hiding Place is set in the Netherlands during Nazi occupation of World War II. Here is the rest of the story of Corrie ten Boom and her band of teenage resisters. This does have some scary scenes so will not be appropriate for  young children.

***** Teens and Adults/Might be too scary for youngers kids

The Ultimate Gift

Billionaire Grandpa Red dies and dispenses some of his money to his children, but leaves a series of “gifts” for his wild living grandson. I love this movie! In fact, I require watching it for my Economics, Finances, and Business course in high school.

Facing the Giants

In Facing the Giants, we meet Coach Grant Taylor whose life is full of problems and pain. When Grant makes a decision to fully surrender to Jesus, things happen! The Kendrick brothers and Sherwood pictures have produced an awesome sports movie! This is one of my all-time favorite movies.

Anne of Green Gables & Anne of Avonlea (PBS 1980s)

Set on Prince Edward Island, Anne is a little orphan girl with bright red hair adopted by an older brother (Matthew) and sister (Marilla) who run the family farm. She brings life to her new family and the entire village of Avonlea. You will love these movies!

The Princess Bride

This movie is just for fun because it is a totally silly fairy tale released in the 1980s. We repeat so many funny lines from this romantic comedy that you almost have to see this movie to understand our family. A farm boy falls in love with a beautiful maiden and goes off to seek his fortune, but he is kidnapped by the dreaded Pirate Roberts. Really fun movie!

Cars

Yes, this is a cartoon, but it’s about Route 66, completed in 1926, which was dotted with prosperous towns and it was America’s route west traveling from Chicago to Los Angeles. Construction began on I-40 in 1957 and was completed in 1975, causing the little towns along Route 66 to dry up. Can you tell I’m a history buff? Okay, the movie is adorable with a life lesson about friendship.

Snowball Express

I saw this Disney movie in the theatre when it was released in 1972. A big city accountant named Johnny Baxter moves his family to Colorado when they inherit a hotel from his uncle “Crazy Jake.” This is a fun adventure set in beautiful snowy Colorado following the family hilarious attempts to open a ski resort. Wholesome.

Gifted Hands: The Ben Carson Story

Growing up in poverty with a single-mom and a learning disability did not stop Ben from growing up to be a ground-breaking nuerosurgeon. His life is a beautiful testimony to the grace of God and love of a good mother.

It’s A Wonderful Life

The classic Christmas feel good story about a young man with dreams who becomes a middle-aged man facing a terrible financial crisis. This movie promotes love, family, and friendship inside a touching story.

Sound of Music

A quirky nun is called to be a governess for a widower’s seven children. She brings life, joy, and music back into the family. With romance, singing, and light comedy, this is a family favorite in our house. I saw it for the first time with Mom and 45 years later, my daughter took me to see in the movie theater for a reshowing. I love this movie!

42

In 1946, history was made when Jackie Robinson crossed the color barrier to play for the Brooklynn Dodgers. In the midst of prejudice and thoughtlessness, Jackie remains kind and loving. A very inspiring movie!

Parent Trap (Disney)

Both versions of the Disney classic are wonderful to watch together as a family. The earlier version stars Hayley Mills in two roles as twins separated at birth when their parents divorced. They meet up at summer camp and discover they are sisters. Then they hatch a plan to get Mom and Dad back together. The hilarious fun of the first movie was wonderfully remade in 1998 with Lindsay Lohan playing the twins. I was surprised and delighted that the original and remake could both be so entertaining and enjoyable. Usually one is better than the other. This is a great movie to watch if you want to relax and laugh.

Risen

Risen takes us back in time to the time of Jesus Resurrection. Career military tribune Clavius investigates the mystery surrounding Jesus’ empty tomb. As Clavius attempts to find a rational explanation, he is confronted with the miraculous power of God. I love this fresh perspective on the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus!

Remember the Titans

In Virginia where football is sacred, a high school football coach is forced to become the assisant when a black head coach is hired and black players are added to the all-white team. Set in 1971 and based loosely on a true story, this is a beautiful story of friendship, loyalty, and teamwork. Great family film.

Mom’s Night Out

This movie is just plain fun! We laugh so hard when we watch three moms head out for a night of no kids, no husband, and relaxation. Of course, the night is anything but relaxing and all sorts of mishaps make it a fine comedy.

Courageous

The Kendrick brothers and Sherwood pictures introduces us to a Sheriff’s deputy who endures a terrible personal loss that causes him to rethink what it means to be a father. He brings in his co-workers on his quest. A beautiful story of redemption!

Polycarp

Released in 2015, this movie takes us  back in time to the church in Smyrna where the Christians are being persecuted for their faith. Bishop Polycarp and his precious congregation will become dear friends as the story unfolds and their faith is put to the test. An inspiring film that will strengthen your commitment to Jesus.

Faith Like Potatoes

When a Zambian farmer (of Scottish descent) moves to Kwa-Zulu Natal, South Africa, to make a better life for his family, there is one trial after another, including terrible tragedy. Likes his potatoes, Angus grows in his faith and love for God.

Please note that there is one scene which is fairly graphic, very tragic, and heartbreaking. Every parent I know who has scene this movie weeps at this scene. It is probably too much for younger audiences so this film may be better for more mature audiences.

Time Changer

A  Bible scholar from 1890 travels forward in time 100 years to see the impact his book will have on future generations of Christians. This movie explores the negative impact of liberal theology at its roots. An excellent movie to understand how what we believe about God impacts how we live.

Miracle

This movie released in 2004, takes us back in time to 1980 where we meet Herb Brooks, played but Kurt Russell, a hockey coach who builds a winning team to compete for the USA in the Olympics. The hot-headed college hockey stars have to learn to work together and value on another if they have any hoping of winning a medal. A great movie!

The Chronicles of Narnia

The classic C.S. Lewis fantasy is brought to life in this movie. Four young children move to the country to live with their uncle for safety reasons during World War II. When they open the magical wardrobe, the adventure begins. This adventure stands alone, but as an allegory, it is amazing!

The Blind Side

Sandra Bulluck is one of my favorite actresses and she shines in this movie about a wealthy Christian family that takes in a tramatized homeless teenager, Michael Oher, who rises to become an All American football player and first draft pick for the NFL. Another inpiring movie about love and investing in people. Beautiful story.

The Secrets of Jonathan Sperry

Dustin begins mowing laws for an older man at church which leads to a special friendship. Jonahtan Sperry, the older gentleman, begins a Bible study with Dustin and his friends, but his mentoring goes beyond the study to living out the ways of the Lord. The ending will have everyone in tears. I love this movie!

Pollyanna

One of my favorite books is a movie released by Disney in 1960. After the death of her missionary parents, Pollyanna is sent to live with her rich, but grumpy aunt. Her gladness and looking at the bright side of things turns the town upside down and when she is down and out, they rally to her. This is beautiful movie about friendship and love.

Resources

HIS Story of the 20th Century by Meredith CurtisUnlocking the Mystery of Homeschooling High School by Meredith Curtis and Laura NoletteJoyful and Successful Homeschooling by Meredith CurtisTravel God's World Geography by Meredith Curtis

 

 

Prioritizing Relationships in Your Homeschool

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

prioritizing relationshipsDisclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.

 

Christi Deason joins the show again, this time to chat about the importance of prioritizing relationships in the homeschool. We talk about the two priority relationships for our children, their relationship to God and their relationship to us, their parents.

First, the most important relationship for us to help cultivate is their relationship with Jesus. That should be our #1 goal, not academics!

Why should we prioritize relationships over academics?

  • The Bible has very little to say about academic instruction.
  • The Bible warns against prioritizing anything that has to do with prosperity.
    • “For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul?” Mark 8:36
    • Usually the primary purpose for focusing on academics is a concern about our children “getting good jobs” and being “successful.”
    • Very intelligent people who are morally bankrupt may become successful by the world’s standards, but they often do the most damage. As C. S. Lewis stated in his book, Mere Christianity (affiliate), “Education without values, as useful as it is, seems rather to make man a more clever devil.”

How do we properly prioritize their relationship with the Lord?

  • It happens naturally as we do life with them and they see our own walk.
  • We must be strong in our own faith!
  • Look for opportunities to make faith real and practical to everyday life.

This primary relationship depends on our parental relationship. We are a picture of Christ to them.

How do we cultivate that?

  • Treat them as individuals.
    • They are not our property or slaves.
    • They are our “brothers and sisters” in Christ!
  • Love unconditionally – “Love is patient, love is kind…”

Practical ideas for building relationships:

  • Have a weekly Family Movie Night.
  • Schedule in regular talk time or time just being together so talking can take place naturally (watching a favorite show, working on a hobby, etc.).
  • Take your children on errands and special outings one-on-one
  • Find good Bible study resources. Some of our favorites for helping our children develop their own devotional time were Kay Arthur’s Discover 4 Yourself® Inductive Bible Studies for Kids. Here are a few my children enjoyed:

Everything hinges on prayer and following God’s leading. Ask the Lord how you can better prioritize the relationships in your family, then listen as He directs!

Wacky Wild Wonderful Teenagers

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Finish Well Radio, Podcast #083, with Meredith Curtis and the Finish Well Team on the Ultimate Homeschool Radio Network

Wacky Wild Wonderful Teenagers

 

In Wacky Wild Wonderful Teenagers,” episode #083, Meredith Curtis talks frankly about the teen years and how they affect teens, their parents, and the parent/teen relationship. Shake off the lies that these years have to be negative, they can be a blast! Meredith believes parents and teens can work together to overcome the challenges teens face.

 

 

 

 


PLP Ad - Galatians 5:22-23

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Being World Changers, Raising World Changers!

We offer books and ebooks to help you homeschool to the Glory of God!

 

 


Show Notes

Drill Team Story

What’s so Great about a Teen?

  • Interesting
  • Engaging
  • Energetic
  • Enchanting
  • Fun
  • Funny

What’s So Challenging about the Teen Years?

  • Hormones
  • Guys—Anger
  • Girls—Emotional
  • Need More Sleep
  • Insecurities
  • Lapses in Judgment (“Have You Lost Your Mind?” song)

Problems for Teens & Their Parents

  • Disposable Income—Targeted by Advertisers
  • Message from Media
  • Stalked on Internet
  • Predators
  • Normal Temptations

Questions Teens Ask

  • Will Anyone Love Me?
  • Do I Measure Up?
  • Am I Valuable?
  • Will I be a Success?
  • Is God Real?
  • Can I Trust the Bible?

Start with Relationships

  • Lives Changed
  • Teens Influenced
  • Jesus’ Model
  • Set Up for Success
  • Family Time
  • Friendship Time
  • Sports Days
  • Picnics/Parties/BBQs

Build Healthy Relationships

Friends to the EndGod's Girls: Friends to the End

 

 

 

 

 

Give Them Answers

  • Apologetics
  • Read Bible & Discuss
  • Create Classes
  • Bible Studies
  • Living Books
  • Biographies (Augustine, Luther, Amy Carmichael, Georg Muller)

Worldview Understanding the Times by Meredith CurtisNew Testament Survey Class by Meredith CurtisOld Testament Survey Class by Meredith CurtisGreat Commission Course by Meredith Curtis      

 

 

 

 

The Opposite Sex

  • Natural Attraction
  • Sexual Desires
  • Movies & TV
  • Internet
  • Facebook/Social Media
  • Pornography
  • Sexting
  • Vigilance
  • Listen/Give Godly Counsel
  • Purity
  • Freedom from Lust
  • Wholesome Friendships
  • Courtship/Dating with a Purpose or American-Style Dating?
  • Who Will They Marry?

Real Men 102: Freedom, Courtship, Marriage, & FamilyReal Men Talk About Freedom, Girls, & MarriageGod's Girls 103: Courship, Marriage, and the Christian Family High School ClassGod's Girls Talk About Guys, Virtue, & Marriage      

 

 

 

 

Put That Energy to Work

  • Zeal/Passion/Energy
  • Outlets for Emotion: Music, Poetry, Sports
  • HARD WORK: Projects, Chores, Home Business
  • Family Ministry
  • O.Y.

Prepare Them for Life

  • Build Godly Character
  • Foster Close Relationships with Jesus
  • Mentoring
  • Bible Classes
  • Character Courses
  • Adult-Prep Courses using Living Books

Economics, Finances, and BusinessGreat Commission Course by Meredith CurtisWorldview Understanding the Times by Meredith CurtisCareer Choices and the College Decision by Meredith Curtis      

 

 

 

 

Real Men Bible Studies & Courses

Real Men 102: Freedom, Courtship, Marriage, & FamilyReal Men Talk About Freedom, Girls, & MarriageMaking of Real MenReal Men 103: Leadership      

 

 

 

 

God’s Girls Bible Studies & Courses

God's Girls 105: Homemaking by Meredith CurtisGod's Girls Brand New Life Bible StudyGod's Girls 103: Courship, Marriage, and the Christian Family High School ClassGod's Girls Beauty Secrets      

 

 

 

 

 

Resources

Unlocking the Mystery of Homeschooling High School by Meredith Curtis and Laura Nolette

 

 

 

 


Special Thanks to Our Network Sponsor -Bright Ideas Press

Homeschool moms are busy! Bright Ideas Press gets that. And that’s why, for over 25 years, we have promised to publish Christian-oriented homeschool curriculum that will fit your family—curriculum that is both affordable and easy-to-use with children of different ages and learning styles at the same time. Curriculum that busy Moms love!

Offering history, science, geography, and humanities curriculum and over 100 options of online classes and clubs for homeschool families, the team at Bright Ideas Press creates products and resources that will not only help simplify your life, but also inspire, encourage, and equip you to educate your children.

Find out more here!


 

 

 

 

When Adult Kids Move Back Home – MBFLP 219

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

What do you do when the adult kids move out … and then come back?

It’s not uncommon – the Census Bureau reports that more than one out of three Millennials (ages 18-34) are living at home with their parents. (In some states, it’s nearly 50%!)

This is not unusual historically – when we look back in our family history a hundred years or more, we see it was common for adult children to be living with parents and sharing the work of farm, forge, and kitchen – or for newlyweds to be living with their parents or in-laws for a time, too.

But this has become more common in recent years. Why?

Young people are getting married later – age of first marriage is approaching 30 for men and 27 for women

  • In 1976, 75% of men and 93% of women were married by age 30
  • In 2014, it was half that – 32% of men and 46% of women
  • More Millennials live with their parents than with a spouse

Student loan debt is a serious burden to many, too. The average college graduate with a bachelor’s degree left school with nearly $28,500 in debt

And this all happening in the midst of a long, sluggish recovery from the financial crises of 2008 and beyond.

So it’s not surprising or rare for parents to find themselves with a twenty-something son or daughter moving back into their old bedroom.

The question is, how can we make this work for all of us?


This episode is brought to you by

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Stopping Sibling Squabbling – MBFLP 213

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.


Stopping Sibling Squabbling

If your child has siblings it’s just about certain they’ll have squabbling. Sibling rivalry of one sort or another is unpleasant but normal – the question for us as parents is, “What can I do about it? How can I deal with the bickering and arguments, to make our home a place of peace and harmony?” In this episode we talk about what we’ve learned raising our family of eight strong-willed, opinionated, energetic, competitive kids!

Stopping Sibling Squabbling

Your Family is Meant to Be an Example

The Bible has many passages which suggest that our family relationships are an illustration of spiritual truths. When Paul talks about the relationship of husbands and wives, he concludes, “This is a great mystery, but I speak concerning Christ and the church.” (Ephesians 5:32) How can we understand the new relationship of fellow believers in the church? By comparing it to the fellowship of parents to children and siblings with one another (1 Timothy 5:1-2). When Jesus is called “a friend who sticks closer than a brother,” (Proverbs 18:24) that makes no sense if brotherhood is all about fighting, arguments, and hostility!

Some Practical Guidelines

We’ve established some household rules that are meant to create or maintain a culture of peace and harmony!

  1. No Name Calling – Names are important in the Bible, and if our kids have a complaint with one another, theyr’e not allowed to sling nicknames or taunts at each other. Never – not even using a common nickname that the child doesn’t want. If you always go by Edward, you might consider Teddy an undesirable handle!
  2. No Bullying or Pestering – Bullying is using your greater strength, size, or another advantage, to intimidate and persecute other people. Pestering is using your lesser ability to lay traps for the stronger sibling, then running to Mama as a “victim.”
  3. Rejoice With Those Who Rejoice – And weep with those that weep (Romans 12:16). The Bible tells us to come alongside our brethren in the church and share in their feelings. We encourage the same standard with our children.
  4.  Remember We’re On The Same Team – We don’t let our children get a I-win-you-lose mentality toward their siblings, and we encourage them to see one sibling’s success as a victory for Team Family. Sure, they play games and compete that way, but in day to day life, we encourage them to think in terms of cooperation and collaboration, not trying to “beat” their brother or sister.

A Long Term Project

Just a few days ago, two of our teenagers were having a disagreement. Hal sat them down and gave them a simple challenge – that every day, moment by moment, they were making decisions about how to interact. Are they working to build unity, harmony, and love within the family? Or are their words and actions tearing that down?

It’s important to remember two things. First, that this is a life-long process. We still have to remind, rebuke, coach, and encourage our kids, long after they’re teenagers. It’s not a simple checklist on the fridge that fixes everybody’s attitude in an afternoon!

But secondly, we need to keep close in mind that we homeschoolers are the primary source of our children’s socialization. Sure, they may pick up undesirable words or attitudes from media, group meetings, or friends, but since they spend most of their time with their parents, we have to be honest. When we find a social behavior that we don’t like, they may very well be picking it up from us. If the children are disrespectful to Mom, are they following Dad’s example? If they have a sarcastic tone, are they imitating Mom? We need to live our own lives in our family to be a pattern for our kids. The family life they see around their dinner table every day is very likely to be the family life our grandchildren experience one day!

RESOURCES WE MENTIONED

No Longer Little: Parenting Tweens with Grace and Hope by Hal and Melanie Young

Interested in having Hal or Melanie speak at your event? CLICK HERE for information!

Come Away Weekend – our marriage retreat and giveaway – Flat Rock, NC – October 19-21

Special Needs Conference for Gifted and Struggling Learners – Orlando, FL – November 16-17

 


Special Thanks to our Network Sponsor, Kiwi Crate!

 

 

We’d like to thank our Ultimate Homeschool Radio Network sponsor, Kiwi Crate!

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