"Kids like what you feed them!" That's my new favorite quote. It's true with food, music,books, entertainment, clothes, anything. People are shocked when they see our kids eat green peppers and cucumbers like candy, but they are just a staple that's constantly put with a meal.
Did you know that kids can learn to like foods that they detest just by trying them every so often. We laugh at this because we've turned around so many dislikes just by tasting it. Kids who used to hate lasagna or broccoli are amazed that they are now favorites!
I find myself puzzled when someone complains that their kids watch too much TV or computer games, and then uses the withdrawal of them as a punishment. To me it sends a mixed message, it shows the parents importance on these things to the child. If we pull something, reading and piano are the first to go, we want them to know those are top on our list.
Books are a very important aspect to take careful consideration! They are a fantastic way to place importance on reading. We include books on almost every gift. They can shape and pull a child in many directions. It's easy to start an appetite in things that may or may not be fruitful, so we are very picky!
If kids are fed classical music and hymns, and this is what is listened to at home, they will develop an appreciation for that kind of music as well. We also have added books on music that teach us what to look out for in the snare of 'worldly music'.
If we come across an attitude or a behavior that is unpleasant, we ask ourselves, "What is feeding it?" There is almost always a source, it may be external, but it may be a slack on our part as well in teaching and training.
Children don't just grow up by accident, they are shaped, molded and guided. Their appetites are formed. They learn from us, and imitate their parents more than anyone! I pray we constantly take our role as parents seriously and humbly seek the Lord's help and guidance daily! And ask ourselves, what are we making them hungry for?
2 Titus 3:15 You have been taught the holy Scriptures from childhood, and they have given you the wisdom to receive the salvation that comes by trusting in Christ Jesus.
Deuteronomy 6:5-9 You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength. And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.
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