Raising Godly Boys Minute

What if you let your son be the expert?

Your boy is surrounded by adults telling him what to do– buckle his seatbelt, pay attention in class, and be nice to his sister. While this guidance is necessary, it can be frustrating for him. So what if you took some time to let him teach you something?

If he’s little, let him take the lead when playing toy trucks. If he’s into video games, grab a controller and ask for a tutorial. You can even compliment him on something simple– such as the way he loads the dishwasher– and have him teach the skill to a younger sibling.

Your son will be delighted to share his expertise.

For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Are you praising your boy’s effort, or his outcomes?

When Mitchell achieved something, such as winning a soccer game, or a high score on a test, his parents expressed a lot of excitement, lavishing praise on him. Inside, Mitchell began to ask himself, what if I didn’t win or get a good grade? Would my parents still love me?

What about you? Do you praise your son more for his good results than you do for a good effort or a great attitude?

Make a point to compliment him by saying things like “I noticed how you passed the ball at just the right moment.” This will help give your son confidence that he can focus on the things he can control, and surrender the results to God.

To learn about the 5 critical needs of boys, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

There is a catch-22 of every boy’s life.

He craves independence and freedom. But he also still wants and needs the attention and approval of his parents. 

Be sure to set aside some time each week for intentional time with your boy.  Invite him on a hike or a fishing trip. Take him along when you need to go pick up something from work. Ask him to help you with a task, like staining the back deck.

This isn’t the time to pester your son with questions, or lecture him about behavior changes. Allow for comfortable silence, and just enjoy time together.

Your son may not seem like he appreciates it. But I guarantee you are making a memory with him– no catch-22 about it.

For learn about the 5 critical needs of boys, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Who’s your favorite superhero?

Boys love superhero movies—especially when characters like Superman and Thor travel to earth from distant space, fight the bad guys, and save humans from total annihilation.

These films capture our attention, but it’s important to remember that they’re fictional. If your son wants to talk about superheroes, mention the greatest superhero of all. Not only is Jesus all-powerful and all-knowing, but he also loves us beyond comprehension. That’s why He paid the punishment for our sin on the cross. And because He conquered death, He now offers us new life.

Superhero movies provide entertainment, but Jesus provides eternal life. Has your son accepted that free gift of salvation? If not, take time today to explain the Gospel message. It’s a message that’s more extraordinary than any blockbuster movie.

For more encouragement and parenting advice, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.

Time is a curious thing.

You wish you had more time to enjoy life, but there never seems to be enough spare time to have a good time. That’s because time flies.

You rush to work, arriving just in the nick of time. Or when at the grocery store, you grumble because you’re losing time.

In the race to make the most of your time, don’t forget what’s truly important. Spend quality time with your son. He’s growing up super fast. Don’t squander your time by wasting time on less important things.

Remember, you can’t turn back the hands of time, so use it wisely.

Well, looks like we’re out of time. So visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com to learn about a Proven Process that is helping boys grow into godly men.