Keeping the Peace?
A pastor friend of mine wanted to know when I would write an article about discipline. He claims to need it for his little girls. Well, he and his wife must be doing something right because they are raising two great people who obviously love their parents and others.
Whether we are looking for ways to “keep the peace” at home, in the toddler room, or at children’s church, it’s not always going to be peaceful. Yes, there is a time for quiet reflection, and we need to create a space for that to take place. But, children are naturally curious and loud and playful, and let’s face it, wouldn’t we all like to be uninhibited enough to laugh from our guts or say out loud “that isn’t fair” anytime we are inclined?
I believe what we need to remember about discipline is what it means to be a disciple. A disciple is one who follows one who he or she believes to be wise. As Christians we strive to follow the teachings of Christ, and our children are entrusted to us to lead them in the ways of Christ. “…Bring [the children] up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord” – Ephesians 6.4b
There are ways of setting the tone during the week and on Sunday morning:
•Show Children Love
•Set Age Appropriate Boundaries and Expectations
•Lead by Example
•Respect Children’s Feelings
•Be Consistent and Fair
Do you have any specific ways that you teach self-control in your ministry with children?
Resources:
Web Article:
“Teaching Your Child Discipline and Self-Control” from Zero to Three
Book for Teachers:
Let There Be Peace in the Classroom by Jenni Douglas Duncan
Books for Young Children:
Today I Feel Silly & Other MOODS That Make My Day by Jamie Lee Curtis
Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day by Judith Viorst
Cookies: Bite-Size Life Lessons by Amy Krouse Rosenthal
May 12th, 2008 at 12:59 pm
For me, the key to discipline or discipleship is the boundaries. So many people want to be a child’s “friend” not the adult. Boundaries that are appropriate for the child are so important and it is up to the adult to set those boundaries. We should not be afraid of boundaries. Boundaries give us the structure for learning how to have a relationship with Christ and with others. Each child is different and needs different boundaries. I would really encourage anyone seeking more information about discipline to look at the boundaries that are set in the home and at church.
June 3rd, 2008 at 9:22 pm
I read similar article also named Keeping the Peace?, and it was completely different. Personally, I agree with you more, because this article makes a little bit more sense for me