Leading children into young adulthood is a pretty scary proposition at times.  And why not? Kids can be scary.  🙂  Yet, there is a definite sense of victory when we are able to “break through” and watch them grow in their knowledge of God and make decisions on their own to follow him.

Ann Landers once said, “It is not what you do for your children, but what you have taught them to do for themselves that will make them successful human beings.”  This reminds me of the old adage, “Give a man a fish and he will eat for one day. Teach a man to fish and he will eat for a lifetime.”

Raising children to become “successful human beings” and much more than that, “successful followers of Christ” is a dynamic process.  Daily, we must reach into the hearts and minds of our children and teens in a way that helps them open their spirits to the Truth that they are loved and valued by God, and can partake in His life and wisdom daily. First and foremost, however, it we–the caregivers, mentors, teacher, and EXAMPLES–who must show them the way by the way we live, act, think, and speak.  Following Jesus is a template we teach by living it, not demanding it.

This blog is an attempt to give insight into the developmental stages of childhood and the teen years in order to help parents, teachers, and youth workers craft ways to prosper spiritual, emotional, and mental formation in the young people they care for.  Each week, we will discuss developmental stages and how to help your child or young person to meet Jesus where they are right now, today. I look forward to starting this conversation. If you have specific questions I might use as the subject of a blog, or a situation you are currently dealing with, please ask.  It will be good to “dig in” and find practical approaches to real life issues.

With respect,

Tess Cox, PA-C, MHSC