A Place For Positive Friends

This week’s discussion may seem like a no-brainer to some.  There are some parents, however, that feel they don’t have the right to get that involved in then life or activities of the child.  Some parents have been made to feel showing up or getting involved in their child’s activities would be overstepping some imaginary boundary.  This is wrong.  It’s the parents’ job to get involved in the child’s life. That way we can help train them in making the right decisions, as well as, help protect them from bad decisions.

Choose to provide a place for your children to meet positive friends who share the same beliefs and values you do.  Sometimes the school environment does not provide the best influences. If that is the case then you need to make sure you are providing another environment.  In my class growing up some of the people did not share my values.  My parents were wise and helped me to get very plugged in with people my own age at church. I (Torrey) met several friends with whom I have carried positive friendships into adulthood.  Because they were very involved in my life, they helped me make good choices.

Getting Involved

Another way to get to know your child’s friends seems simple but many families are so busy that they have a hard time actually following through with it.  Parents we need to get involved in their children’s lives.  If you are just transporting your children you don’t get an opportunity to observe after they are dropped off.

The first arena is your child’s school.  There are many opportunities to get involved in schools today.  Schools are always appreciative for volunteers who help with testing, chaperone field trip, put on after school activities and so on.  Volunteering at school is a great way to keep your finger on the pulse of your child’s choice of friends.

Another easy way to get involved is to park the car.  Don’t just drop them off at practices…stay and watch. Popping into youth group every once in a while is another way to observe you child in their own environment.

Because my mom started doing these types of things when I (Torrey) was small, I was always proud to have her there.