Time, TV, And Kids
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As parents, we all want to take advantage of the time we have with our children, and make the most of every opportunity to influence their spiritual and emotional growth.
Let’s talk time.
As parents, we have to utilize the time and the opportunities that we have with our children in each season of life. For us, that sought-after victory would be to see our children love Christ with all their heart, soul, and mind, and to love their neighbor as themselves – the greatest two commandments. (Luke 10:27)
We have the unique ability to shape the lives of our children, but it can be easily missed in the rush and demands from other spheres of life. The church can support growth, but it is the parents’ responsibility to nurture a child’s faith. Statistically, families are attending church less and less each year. In fact, at Kensington, it is rare to have a child in our Kensington Kids program for half the weekends in a year. The church may have around 25 hours with a year with your children, while parents have around 3000 discretionary hours at their disposal to help their child grow closer to Jesus.
How can we make an impact this summer?
Kensington wants to come alongside you, and help you to do what Psalm 78 (my life verse!) challenges us to do:
we will tell the next generation
the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord,
his power, and the wonders he has done.
In fact, we have a significant opportunity to influence them as children, and it becomes more difficult to make an impact as they get older. The years in which our children are young are vital! (Need some parenting advice? Read Jenny Warn’s tips here).
In this digital age, it seems every child knows how to unlock your iPad and cell phone, so we want to give you some recommendations for shows found on RightNow Media (which is a free gift from Kensington) that will reinforce what you teach in your home and what we are doing as a church. We especially recommend these programs to be watched as a family – these are great experiences to discuss together.
1. Friends and Heroes – This is a historical journey for families to grow in their understanding of scripture as they follow two fictional characters through the Roman Empire. The Bible comes alive with this epic story from an award-winning team (with major credits on films including Star Wars). Friends and Heroes traces the tale of two friends, Macky and Portia, whose adventures lead them across the ancient world as they fight for justice and even survival against the might of the Roman Empire.
2. Veggie Tales – Perfect for all ages. These lovable characters are funny while teaching character development. Watch it together and discuss the decisions and consequences for each character. The real-life application of Biblical truths moves this show from a “babysitter” to while you make dinner, to a real tool for spiritual development.
3. Faith Blox with Phil Visher – For Elementary Ages. Faith Blox brings a chapter-by-chapter Bible study to your screen with creative characters and accessible ideas. Phil Visher brings the pages of the New Testament to life, and this is a great daily study to jump into with your child. Chapters take about 8-10 minutes and can be a great addition to your summer routine.
4. Boz – For Pre-Schoolers. Boz teaches important skills such as letter and number recognition and combines these with a spiritual application and worldview that focuses on God as the center of all learning. Boz is an adorable character that kids will enjoy and want to see time and again.
5. Superbook – For All Ages. Chris, Joy, and Gizmo travel through time and space to relive the greatest stories ever told. They bring famous and lesser-known stories from the Bible to life. It’s a perfect blend of the new meeting the old. Kids will find much in common with these travelers and adults will learn new information while watching with their kids.
My hope is that you will embrace the time you have together this summer. Take advantage of this season and this opportunity. Summers seem to get shorter as they get older. Let’s seize today.
Still haven’t gotten your free subscription? It’s easy. Just visit kensingtonchurch.org/rightnow-media.