Faith filled activities and resources for families with teens
Caring Conversations
There is this misinformation out there that teens have no desire to talk to their parents. Not true. It is true, however, that we - the adults in their lives - don't always know how to pave the way to truly engaging conversations. Here are a few things to remember:
Serving Together AND Family Devotions
Serving as worship leaders is a wonderful way to serve others, especially during Christmas!. Check out the Bethlehem Website and find opportunities to serve together as ushers, communion servers, greeters and more!
Most of our teens have phones with cameras. Why not put them to use for an active devotion time! This activity from Vibrant Faith can be used to focus everyone's attention on all we have to be grateful for at Thanksgiving, Christmas - and all year long!
Prayer
Vibrant Faith Ministries has a fun way to pray together as a family with a variety of ages - not just teens! This is also a fun activity to do while traveling together!
There is this misinformation out there that teens have no desire to talk to their parents. Not true. It is true, however, that we - the adults in their lives - don't always know how to pave the way to truly engaging conversations. Here are a few things to remember:
- Make a habit of talking about whatever makes your teen happy. No matter what your teen’s interest--sports, music, clothing, TV, gaming, social media, friends, school—ask questions and learn what’s going on. Remember... talking about what makes your teen happy does not mean that boundaries and rules go out the window! Setting appropriate boundaries that grow as your teen grows is important! Involve them in the evolution of the boundaries as you see fit. Areas that need special attention in this age group includes: Social Media, driving/passenger safety, personal boundaries, healthy relationships, to name a few.
- Try to eat together whenever possible. Mealtimes are good times to talk and listen.
- Answer questions directly and honestly.
- If you have made a mistake, admit it. “I’m sorry” are very powerful words for a teenager to hear from parents.
- Notice your teen’s feelings. “You seem upset about your relationship with ______.”
- Be aware of your own reactions and emotions. Teenagers are great at saying or doing things that annoy their parents. Take time to think about your responses and decisions to your teen’s requests.
- Offer your opinion without lecturing or judging. Know that you may hear something with which you disagree. Avoid statements like, “That’s stupid.” or “You’re wrong.” Try saying, “I hear you, but this is how I see it...”
- Give all of your attention. If the phone rings, don’t answer it. It also is difficult to talk while doing other things, like watching TV.
- Offer assistance. “Is there something I can do to help?”
Serving Together AND Family Devotions
Serving as worship leaders is a wonderful way to serve others, especially during Christmas!. Check out the Bethlehem Website and find opportunities to serve together as ushers, communion servers, greeters and more!
Most of our teens have phones with cameras. Why not put them to use for an active devotion time! This activity from Vibrant Faith can be used to focus everyone's attention on all we have to be grateful for at Thanksgiving, Christmas - and all year long!
Prayer
Vibrant Faith Ministries has a fun way to pray together as a family with a variety of ages - not just teens! This is also a fun activity to do while traveling together!