The in-house Youth Fellowship discussion led by Jimmy Alexander, brought together young families from the Mar Thoma church. During this gathering, participants actively shared some examples from their childhood that made them mentally and morally strong. We also discussed about some challenges we are currently facing to raise mentally and morally strong kids.
What made us mentally and morally strong?
- Consistent Family Rituals & Faith: Regular family dinners with prayer and witnessing answered prayers provided a stable, spiritually grounded environment.
- Supportive Social Bonds: Close friendships offered a crucial outlet for sharing vulnerabilities and building emotional resilience.
- Personal Growth Through Diverse Experiences: Participation in sports, cultural activities, and receiving appropriate autonomy fostered confidence and a sense of belonging.
- Freedom and Role Models: Parental freedom in personal choices fostered security and confidence, while role models in media influenced values and aspirations.
Tips for raising mentally strong kids
Do
- Teach and model emotional regulation
- Foster independence
- Set boundaries
- Coach emotions
Don’t
- Overprotect
- Overindulge
- Overcontrol
Challenges to raise mentally and morally strong kids
- Technology and Media Influence
Problem : Overexposure to phones, social media, and TV shows that normalize immorality, along with external influences that may not align with family values.
Solution : Recognize technology as a tool, not a master. Teach children to use it responsibly and in moderation. Encourage critical thinking and discernment regarding online content. Emphasize the importance of face-to-face interactions and meaningful relationships.
References : 1 Corinthians 10:31, Philippians 4:8, Hebrews 10:24-25, Colossians 4:5
- Shifting Cultural and Moral Norms
Problem : Differing ideas of morality in modern society, challenges in imparting biblical or personal moral beliefs, and cultural differences for immigrant parents.
Solution : Ground children in biblical truth and teach them to discern between right and wrong. Encourage children to be a positive influence in the world, even amidst conflicting values. Teach them to love and respect others, even those with differing viewpoints.
References : Hebrews 5:14, Matthew 5:14-16, Romans 12:2, 1 Peter 3:15
- Lack of Real-World Exposure
Problem : Higher living standards than elsewhere, reduced exposure to hardships, overprotection, and structured schedules limiting real-life responsibilities.
Solution : Teach children to empathize with those less fortunate and to practice compassion. Cultivate a spirit of contentment and gratitude, recognizing that true wealth is not material. Encourage children to serve others and to be generous with their time and resources.
References : Luke 10:27, 1 Timothy 6:6-8, Galatians 6:2, Hebrews 13:16
- Parental Struggles
Problem : Difficulty managing emotions, maintaining patience, and being present for kids due to busy schedules and stress.
Solution : Balance love and discipline, providing clear boundaries while offering grace. Model and teach emotional regulation, demonstrating self-control and patience. Prioritize spending quality time with children, being present and attentive.
References : Proverbs 13:24, Ephesians 6:4, Proverbs 29:11, Deuteronomy 6:6-7
- Communication and Discipline: Struggles in connecting with kids, declining face-to-face interactions, and a societal shift discouraging discipline or corrective feedback.
Guidance for mental strength provided by experts
- 13 Things Mentally Strong Parents Don’t Do by Amy Morin
- The Whole-Brain Child by Daniel J. Siegel and Tina Payne Bryson
- Raising Mentally Strong Kids by Dr. Daniel Amen and Dr. Charles Fay
- Raising an Emotionally Intelligent Child by John Gottman
Above all, let us seek God in every step of parenting. Our Lord is faithful enough to work both in us – parents and our kids. Let us not be discouraged in doing good and continue to be faithful. May God help us to seek His Truth in all things.
Summarized by Tessy Mathew
