Christian Parenting Series Part 1, Parenting Young Children

TRAIN PROACTIVELY

For example, I didn’t always wait for some form of negative behavior to take place and then react.

Instead, when my child was playing well and happily nearby or when we were working together in the kitchen or outdoors, I would say, "Darlin', come to Mama," with a big smile and my arms outstretched.

When my dear one came, I would hug and kiss (parenting toddlers can be fun!) and say, "Oh, you darlin', you heard Mama's voice and you came when called. That's obedience! You’re honoring Mama!"

ADDRESS YOUR CHILD’S WILL

As my children grew in age and understanding (this time frame varies with each child; there is no right or wrong age to implement this), I taught them not only to come when called but also to respond cheerfully with these words: "Yes, Mama, I will."

For example, when I would say, "Susie Q, come!" she would respond with, "Yes, Mama, I will" and then she would come.

This added response addressed the will of her soul. Being willing and obedient is so crucial as children grow. (Being willing and obedient is also an important aspect of mom’s growth, too).

During the initial stages of child-training the will, lovingly requiring this response—“yes, Mommy, I will”—each time children are called trains children’s wills in obedience.

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Throughout this training process when children are young, you, Mom, will also grow in two ways, as you begin looking for opportunities to train proactively:

1. Selflessness, as you choose to lay down your personal agenda and consider the needs of your children (in this case, the need is child training) (1 John 3:16).

   As you painstakingly obey the Lord in laying down your self-life, He by His Spirit will help you to identify self-centered interests. As you wrestle with Him and willingly allow Him to mortify your self-centered interests, your soul (will, mind, emotions) will come under control of the Spirit and prosper (3 John 1:2). Then you will be equipped to look to your self-interests without self-centeredness motives (Philippians 2:4). You will be able to teach your children these same lessons because you have responded to your heavenly Parent with willful obedience. He has trained you so you can train them.

2. Discernment, as you look for ways to proactively train your children, rather than reacting to a crisis.

   If you are overly busy with numerous activities outside the home, you will miss these opportunities for training your children and for God's training in your own life. Be diligent about developing the tool of home.

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Other articles in this Parenting Young Children series:

• consequences for disobedience and

• a personal example of child training.

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