Capturing Teachable Moments
by Starr Bright Nolan
Teachers use them every week to teach children in Sunday School. As parents, you can take advantage of teachable moments every day to help your children learn about God and build spiritual foundations for faith.
In Deuteronomy 6:7, God commands parents to teach their children about Him during the normal routines of the day: "Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down, and when you get up" (NIV). God created children to grow and learn. He knows that boys and girls learn best when biblical truths are taught as they apply to real-life experiences.
Consider some typical everyday situations below and how you might capture teachable moments with your kids.
• As you observe your child being helpful, kind, or loving, take that opportunity to say: "Thank you for helping (being kind to, showing love to) your sister. God wants us to help (be kind to, show love to) each other."
• With springtime approaching, you most likely will be doing fun things outdoors with your kids, such as taking hikes, flying kites, and even planting flower gardens. Give your children many opportunities to see and touch things God made. While flying a kite with your child, say: "Did you know that God made the wind? We can't see it or touch it, but it's there. God made a wonderful world for us to enjoy."
• Playing "I Spy" games while riding in the car with your kids is always a fun thing to do. Be alert for times when you can say things like: "I'm glad God gave us eyes to see" or "Thank You, God, for making so many wonderful things for our world."
• As you comfort your crying child with hugs and reassuring words, take that opportunity to remind your child of God's love for him. Say: "I love you, (child's name). God loves you, too."
Capturing teachable moments may take a little practice, but you can do it. Ask God to help you see and make use of teachable moments with your children.
Also in the April 10, 2008 Issue of The Evangel
» Frank and to the Point
» Wild West - Camp 2008
» Got Tuition?
» Capturing Teachable Moments
» Mission Friends Open House
» Singles, Join us for a Nashville Sounds Game!
» Union University
» Child Development Center Receives 3-Star Rating
» In the Library
» Volunteers are still needed for Arts Festival
» Coming Up
» Impact Others
» Coming Up
» This Week in Worship
