Ever wonder what’s wrong with fast food; what you should do if your baby chokes; how do you get your toddler to eat his veggies; why is it so awkward for me to talk to my teen about sex; how can a firm hand approach motivate your child; how can you help your teen develop Christian values while making important decisions in life? Or, I’m a single parent and need help, who can I turn to? Or, what is my role as a husband, father and man of God?
If so, you would have found answers to your questions during a recent "Parenting for the 21st Century" conference where 150 parents received invaluable resources on raising happy and healthy families while instilling Christian family values.
"Parenting for the 21st Century" was part of the My Family Matters initiative sponsored by Southern California Conference Greater Los Angeles Region (GLAR).
The parenting seminars were designed to help parents hone their skills, develop a keener sense of responsibility, while providing the best possible atmosphere for their child’s physical, emotional and spiritual growth.
According to one seminar spokesperson, “A national poll of children ages 9-14 found that 68 percent say they do not spend a lot of time with their parents (Global Strategy Group, Inc.). The two major reasons they gave for lack of togetherness were parents’ work schedules and their own schedules. Parents, our children are crying out for our time! We must begin to build healthy relationships with our children filled with love, compassion, understanding and honesty.”
“If we’re gong to reach our children and communities, parents, we must begin to model Christ in our homes. If we do not begin to address the issues wreaking havoc in the homes of our members and our communities,” said Dawn Bernard, physician assistant and conference attendee, “then the Lord may be left with just the rocks to cry out for Him.”
"Parenting for the 21st Century" workshop presenters included Anna and David Camerena, “Early Childhood Development;” Dr. Curtis Fox, “Strong, Healthy Families;” Denise Johnson, “Blended Families;” Dr. Leslie Pollard, “Let’s Talk About Headship in the 21st Century;” Dr. Prudence LaBeach Pollard, “Parenting With Values;” Dr. Elizabeth Watson, “One is Enough;” Dr. Linda Tigner-Weekes, “Child Obesity is Family Obesity;” and Jackie Winston, “Why Do They Act That Way?”
Keynote speakers Drs. Kay Kuzma and Bailey Gillespie individually challenged parents to grow in Christ and meet and anticipate their child’s emotional needs, while most importantly, allowing your family relationships to lead others to know God.
