Proverbs 22:6: “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.”
Ephesians 6:4: “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.”
The Early Years Matter Most
I was speaking to a friend the other day about his two-year-old daughter. He mentioned how her personality is really starting to shine along with a little stubbornness. She’s testing boundaries, refusing to listen, and fighting time-outs. It reminded me of when my own daughter went through that exact same stage. Those years were some of the hardest, yet they were also the most important for shaping her heart, character, and faith.
I want to say up front, my wife and I were not perfect parents. We made plenty of mistakes and learned countless lessons along the way. Parenting is a lifelong journey of growth and grace. But one thing I’ve learned is this: the early years are foundational. Between infancy and age seven, children absorb everything around them. What we model and teach during these years will echo throughout their lives.
1. Be Consistent in Discipline and Boundaries
Children thrive in environments where expectations are clear and consistent. Structure doesn’t limit them it helps them feel safe.
- Use simple, direct instructions like, “No hitting, that’s not kind.”
- Keep timeouts brief but always follow through, even when it’s hard.
- Praise positive behavior immediately to reinforce good habits.
Consistency builds trust and teaches children that their choices have consequences, good or bad.
2. Limit Exposure to Secular Media and Technology
What children watch and listen to deeply shapes how they think and behave. Guard their hearts and minds by filtering what they consume.
- Prioritize books, creative play, and hands-on activities over screen time.
- When using technology, choose age-appropriate tools that promote learning and positive values (like Bible stories, worship music, or phonics apps).
- Create “tech-free” zones during meals and bedtime to encourage family interaction.
Children learn most from real-life engagement from our words, actions, and presence.
3. Teach Them About God Early
Faith isn’t something to wait on until they’re older it’s something to plant in their hearts from the very beginning. The home is their first classroom.
- Pray with them daily using simple words they can repeat: “Thank You, Jesus, for today.”
- Read Bible stories written for children to help them understand God’s character.
- Live out your faith by modeling love, patience, forgiveness, and kindness.
When faith is woven into daily life, it becomes part of their identity, not just an activity.
4. Focus on Early Education and Positive Habits
A child’s brain develops rapidly before age seven and the habits they form now will follow them for years.
- Turn learning into fun through counting games, phonics activities, and interactive books.
- Build predictable routines for meals, playtime, and bedtime to create a sense of order.
- Introduce concepts like hard work, kindness, and responsibility through small, age-appropriate tasks.
These habits build confidence and prepare children for school, relationships, and life.
5. Show Unconditional Love and Patience
Children’s defiance is often a reflection of frustration, not rebellion. They’re still learning how to manage big feelings in little bodies.
- Get down on their level when speaking to show empathy and connection.
- Correct them firmly but lovingly always reminding them they are loved no matter what.
- Model calmness and teach them how to express feelings with words instead of tantrums.
When they know your love is unwavering, they develop a strong sense of security and self-worth.
Final Thoughts: You’re Not Alone
Parenting during the early years is challenging but it’s also one of the greatest privileges God gives us. The lessons, love, and faith we pour into our children now become the foundation they’ll stand on for the rest of their lives.
Remember, none of us have it all figured out. We’re all learning as we go. The key is to stay prayerful, stay present, and rely on God for the wisdom you need day by day.
And here’s the good news: you’re not doing this alone. We’re a community, and we’re here to support one another. Together, we can raise a generation of children who love God deeply and choose what’s right, even when no one is watching.
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