Summer is officially here, and with it comes longer days, warmer weather, and plenty of opportunities for fun! While it’s great to let kids run wild and burn off energy, remember that summer is also a fantastic time to subtly teach important life skills. One of the most valuable lessons you can impart is self-control.
Self-control isn’t just about good behavior; it’s a foundational skill that helps kids succeed in school, navigate social situations, and thrive in various environments. Think about it: sitting still in a classroom, waiting patiently at a restaurant, or being quiet during a church service all require a good dose of self-control.
The good news? You don’t need a textbook or a lecture to teach this! Many classic games are perfect for helping kids practice sitting still, being quiet, and managing their impulses. These aren’t just fun ways to pass the time; they’re powerful tools for developing crucial self-regulation skills.
Here are a few ideas for games that encourage stillness and quiet, perfect for those moments when you need a little calm amidst the summer excitement:
This timeless favorite is brilliant for fostering self-control. While one person counts, the hiders must find a spot and then remain absolutely still and silent, no matter how tempting it is to giggle or move. The thrill of not being found reinforces the importance of quiet and stillness.
Turn on some music and let your kids dance their hearts out. But when the music stops, they have to freeze in whatever position they’re in! This game challenges them to stop their bodies instantly and hold still until the music starts again. It’s a fantastic way to practice quick transitions and physical restraint.
Similar to freeze dance, the “Statues” game involves striking a pose and holding it perfectly still. You can call out different statue themes (e.g., “animal statues,” “sports statues”) to add to the fun. “Red Light, Green Light” is another variation where kids run on “green light” and must freeze immediately on “red light.” These games are excellent for practicing impulse control and physical stillness.
Incorporating these types of games into your summer routine provides a playful yet effective way to build essential self-control. Not only will you be creating lasting memories, but you’ll also be equipping your children with skills that will benefit them for years to come. So, this summer, embrace the quiet moments and play your way to better self-control!
In these divisive times, it’s easy to feel the pull of anger, resentment, and even animosity towards those on the “other side” of the political spectrum. The news cycle, social media, and even everyday conversations can fuel a sense of “us vs. them.” But as followers of Christ, we are called to a higher standard, a more profound way of living that transcends earthly divisions.
Let’s turn to the challenging yet transformative words of Jesus in Luke 6:28-30 (English Standard Version):
“bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you. To one who strikes you on the cheek, offer the other also, and from one who takes away your cloak do not withhold your tunic either. Give to everyone who begs from you, and from one who takes away your goods do not demand them back.”
What is God trying to tell us here? This passage is a radical call to agape love – an unconditional, self-sacrificing love that extends far beyond natural human affection or reciprocity. It’s about responding to hostility with grace, to injustice with generosity, and to anger with prayer.
Consider the profound implications for our political landscape:
The core principle here is revolutionary: Love extends to all, even enemies: True love, as exemplified by God, is not limited to those who are easy to love or who reciprocate our affection. It encompasses those who oppose us, curse us, and harm us.
This isn’t about ignoring the very real issues and disagreements that exist. It’s about approaching them from a spiritual posture rooted in Christ’s teaching. When we pray for those we disagree with, we are not only obeying a direct command from Jesus, but we are also:
So, no matter where you stand on the political spectrum, and no matter how deeply you feel wronged or misunderstood by the “other side,” let us commit to the radical act of prayer. Let us choose to bless rather than curse, to pray rather than retaliate. In doing so, we not only honor Christ but also become instruments of healing and reconciliation in a world desperately in need of both.
Let’s begin today. Who will you pray for, even if it feels difficult, even if it feels counterintuitive?
You know that knot in your stomach? That slight hesitation when you realize a tough topic needs to be addressed? That’s the feeling most parents get when faced with an “uncomfortable conversation.” But leaning into that discomfort, rather than shying away from it, is where the real connection and growth happen.
Here are some practical tips to help you approach those vital discussions with confidence and care:
By embracing these uncomfortable conversations, you’re not just protecting your child; you’re building a foundation of trust, resilience, and open communication that will serve them well throughout their lives. Good luck – you’ve got this!
In today’s rapidly evolving world, it’s natural for parents to feel a fierce need to protect their children. We want to shield them from anything that might cause them harm, confusion, or expose them to ideas we don’t agree with. This protective instinct often manifests in efforts to control what our children are exposed to, whether it’s monitoring media, carefully selecting friends, or, increasingly, advocating for the removal of certain books from school libraries.
However, while the impulse to ban books might stem from a good place, it’s a strategy that ultimately misses the mark and, in fact, can leave our children less prepared for the realities they will inevitably face.
Consider this: We pour energy into debating and removing books, yet often overlook the vast, unfiltered, and often unregulated world of social media that our children navigate daily. If our goal is to truly protect our kids and guide their understanding of the world, then the real work lies not in banning information, but in empowering them with the tools to critically engage with it.
The truth is, you cannot ban every challenging idea, every differing viewpoint, or every uncomfortable truth. The world outside your home is diverse, complex, and sometimes messy. And frankly, the more you try to block out these realities, the more intriguing and powerful they can become to a curious mind.
So, what’s the real shield? It’s you. It’s your voice, your values, and your willingness to have the uncomfortable conversations.
Instead of hoping your children never encounter certain topics, embrace the opportunity to be their primary source of information and guidance. This means:
Banning books might temporarily remove a specific narrative, but it does little to prepare your child for the vast ocean of information and differing viewpoints they will encounter as they grow. True protection comes from equipping them with the knowledge, values, and critical thinking skills to navigate that ocean, with you as their steady compass.
So, let’s put less energy into policing bookshelves and more into opening up courageous conversations. Your willingness to engage, to explain, and to guide will be the most powerful shield you can ever give your child.
We all want our children to grow into kind, honest, and responsible adults. We tell them about the importance of telling the truth, being fair, and following the rules. We strive to instill in them a strong moral center, a compass that guides them toward good choices even when we’re not around. But sometimes, in the hustle and bustle of daily life, we might inadvertently chip away at the very foundation we’re trying to build.
Our children are always watching. They are sponges, absorbing not just our words, but more importantly, our actions. They are learning about right and wrong, not just from our lectures, but from how we navigate the world ourselves.
Consider these everyday scenarios:
The famous musical “Into the Woods” features a poignant song with the repeated lyric, “Careful the things you say, children will listen.” This isn’t just about spoken words; it extends to every unspoken lesson we impart through our behavior. Our children are listening, watching, and internalizing.
So, how can we truly build that strong moral center?
It starts with us. It requires conscious effort and a commitment to embodying the values we want our children to hold.
Building a moral center in our children isn’t about perfection; it’s about consistency and intentionality. It’s about recognizing that every action we take, every choice we make, is a lesson being taught. Let’s be mindful of the lessons we’re imparting and ensure that our actions are consistently reinforcing the values we want our children to carry with them throughout their lives. Because when it comes to character, our children are indeed watching, and they are listening.
It’s a scenario many of us have faced: you feel disrespected. Someone’s words or actions have crossed a line, and they’re not backing down. In that moment, a primal urge can kick in – the need to defend your honor, to stand your ground, to make it clear you won’t be trampled. For generations, especially in certain cultures and communities, violence or the threat of it has been seen as the ultimate arbiter of respect. But in a world grappling with the devastating consequences of conflict, a critical question arises: Is there a way to defend your honor without resorting to violence?
When we feel disrespected, and the other person isn’t backing down or offering an apology, the situation can quickly escalate. The adrenaline surges, emotions run high, and the instinct to retaliate can be powerful. But what if we paused for a moment and considered alternative paths? What if defending our honor didn’t have to mean engaging in a physical or even verbally aggressive battle?
Here are some approaches to consider when your honor feels challenged, and violence seems like the only option:
1. The Power of Your Voice (and Your Boundaries):
2. The Strength of Your Presence (and Your Reputation):
3. The Wisdom of Disengagement (and Strategic Avoidance):
4. The Path of Seeking Support (and Collective Action):
What are your thoughts? Have you found effective ways to defend your honor without resorting to violence? Share your experiences in the comments below.
Demby's Playful Parables 