As we’ve been talking about launching your child with intentionality this school year, you might be wondering where to start. We’ve put together a list of a few creative strategies to help you encourage them to stay focused and centered on Jesus this school year:

• Plan some one-on-one time. As the school year gets under way, it can get harder and harder to connect with your kids amidst school projects, extracurricular activities, and life craziness. Devote some time to connecting with your kids individually and be intentional with your conversation. Ask them about their friends at school. Talk about things they’re learning and processing. Spend some time making sure they know they are loved, both by God and by you. Work hard at keeping these lines of communication open. You might be surprised how much they’re willing to open up and share with you over a scoop of ice cream.
• Nightly Bible reading. Many kids are required to complete a certain amount of reading every night as part of their homework assignment, so why not encourage your child to read the Bible during this time? The Jesus Storybook Bible is a wonderful Bible for kids – and even adults! – of all ages that will point them to Christ in every story they read. This will also start building the habit of spending time in the Word every day.
• Send them notes. If your child brings their lunch to school, slip a little note in there! Some Scripture, a note of encouragement, a funny joke, or even a simple ‘I love you’ can make a huge difference in their day, point them to Christ and remind them that they are loved. Here are some free and cute printable lunchbox note ideas!
• Family Dinners. Sitting down and sharing a meal together at the end of a long, busy day is one of the best ways you can be intentional with your kids. Due to sports practices and extracurricular activities, it’s also one of the easiest things to neglect. Commit to family dinners at least a few nights a week and spend time reconnecting as a family. Have everyone share what God is doing in their lives, how they can be prayed for, and what they are looking forward to over the next few days. You can also check out this list of conversation starters for some fun and engaging topics based on age.
• Scripture everywhere! The most important tool in our parenting toolbox is the Bible. Spend time in it daily and encourage your kids to do the same as well. Remind them that God’s Word will lead and direct them, whatever they may encounter at school, and that we can claim His promises over our life. He is faithful, now and always.

“Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.” Psalm 119:105

Place key verses around your home: in the car, written on bathroom mirrors or in picture frames, or on the inside cover of a school notebook. For little kids, check out Seeds Family Worship for music that is word-for-word scripture.

“Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.” Deuteronomy 6:7-9We are praying for all of you currently navigating the trenches of school and parenthood! Know that God sees you and loves you for the work you are doing. It is no small calling. His grace is abundantly poured over you as you walk through this season and He will guide your steps every way. Rest in this and trust Him.

---

In case you missed our posts earlier this week, click here to find out how to pray for your child this year and here for way to remind them of their identity and purpose.