What I know for sure is that if you are a parent you are a very busy person. So busy that you don’t have much time to sit and reflect. However, I am going to ask you to do just that. I would like for you to really think about your parenting style. You might want to begin with these questions.

How would you describe your parenting style? How is it working for you and your family? How was your parenting style developed?

It is my belief that God sent each of us to this earth for a purpose. He also sent our children here for a purpose. As parents, it is important to create a home environment that will facilitate our children’s discovering God’s purpose for them. Our parenting style has a huge influence on this process. It also has a huge influence on:

• Our children’s relationship with God.
• Our children’s mental and physical development.
• How well they can give and receive love.
• How well they can bond.
• How well they connect to the world.
• How safe they see the world.
• Their ability to form close relationships.
• How they will serve.
• Their self-worth.
• Their ability to soothe themselves.
• Their ability to take care of their needs.
• How well they can hear their inner whisper.
• Their purpose.

As you reflect on your parenting style, remember to be gentle with yourself, no judgments allowed, only love and grace.

Fondly,
Sharron Thurlkill, M.Ed., LPC
Lutheran Counseling Services