Parent's Page
Research Study tells who influences your child most. (You may be suprrised.)
American Family Radio ran a program that told the results of a study that listed the top influences in children's lives today. While you may think the top influencers would be singers, rappers or movies, the study revealed that the top influencers are much closer to home. Here they are:
1. Parents
You are the most influential person in your child's life. Many parents may be surprised to know that because kids don't always act that way. But what it means is that you have a window of opportunity to shape how your child views the world. The host of the program made the point that just because kids rebel against a parent doesn't mean the parent hasn't gotten through. So keep telling them about Jesus and leading them to do the right, moral thing---even when they roll their eyes.
2. Grandparents
The host of the show was surprised that grandma and grandpa made the second spot. But the point was made that grand parents do have influence with their grandkids. Some may also note that in some cases grandparents have a better relationship with the child than the parent does. So invite grandparents around and let them work with your kids, unless the grandparents have rejected God.
3. Teachers
Schools are very influential and unfortunately, not always for the good of the child. Some schools are pushing ungodly lifestyles. One parent told this writer that her four year old got into trouble for praying over her lunch. The teacher and others said the child made other kids "uncomfortable". The mom protested this nonsense. She ended up moving her child to a Christian school. Ask your child what she or he is being taught in school. Get involved in school activities.
4. Peers (friends)
You already know this one. Yes, the boy and girl across the hall or down the street influence your kids. It's important to know who they hang out with and try to put restrictions where they are called for. Giving your child advise on picking friends is not a bad idea either. Yes, you cannot control who they choose to be with, but you can do what you can and pray.
5. Pastors
If pastors are influential that is obviously good. But it also points out why you need to put energy into picking a good, Bible-believing church. Attending church with your child and making sure they have good attendance in Sunday Schools and church activities goes a long way in your child's spiritual development and relationship with God. After all, it's the most important relationship your child will have. Let your pastor help.
George Barna, of the respected research firm Barna Research said that many people who attend church don't actually believe in the God of the Bible. It seems they have a view of who God is that they created. Why does this issue of influencing children matter? It matters because today, society is teaching children unbiblical concepts and values. For instance, people are debating about what a man or a woman is. But Genesis 1:27 makes it clear that only God can create a man or woman. Barna says that this means parents and Christians who work with children need to reach kids early with God's truth. Take your child to church. Read the Bible with him or her. The Bible said it best in Proverbs 22:6---train up a child early.
