Parents Newsletter
New Year, New Schedule
Dear Parents,
As we are about to start a new exciting new year, we want to share some updates about our Youth Group program.
New Schedule for Thursday Evenings: Starting this year, our Youth Group meetings will continue on Thursday evenings but with a slight change in timing. We will now start at 6:30 PM and conclude at 8:00 PM. Typically, most of our leaders have been getting off work around 5 or 6 and getting to the church right when the doors open or after. This adjustment allows our youth leaders to arrive at 6:00 PM for thorough preparation, ensuring a meaningful experience for everyone.
Flexible Arrangements: We understand the complexities of family schedules. Please feel free to reach out if you need assistance with arranging pick-ups, drop-offs, or if they need to arrive earlier than the start time. Our goal is to make Youth Group accessible and convenient for every family.
Structured Program: Our Thursdays will now follow a different structure, beginning with a service, followed by small group discussions, and concluding with a social time and opportunity to enjoy the youth center. This structure is designed to prioritize the spiritual aspect of youth group, making our relationship with God the number one focus.
Outreach: These changes may affect some of the youth that are drawn in by things like basketball and games. We still want to provide opportunities to reach the unchurched youth in our community, so we will occasionally have events on a Monday or Tuesday where we open the gym for basketball. These events will be separate from our regular meetings and aim to provide an opportunity for outreach.
Focused Spiritual Growth: Our primary focus remains on nurturing spiritual maturity and creating a supportive environment for all our youth. We are committed to meeting the youth where they are in their spiritual journey. Our aim is to provide a space where every young person feels valued, respected, and strengthened spiritually.
As we implement these changes, we welcome your feedback and suggestions. Our goal is to work together to support the youth growing strong spiritually.
Thank you for your continued support and trust in our program. We look forward to another wonderful year with your kids.
T.J. Smith and The Rock Youth Group Leadership Team
Winterfest
Winterfest is coming up soon, so be sure to grab a Winterfest information packet with permission slip at the hospitality desk at church!
Prioritizing Christ in Relationships
Understanding and Navigating the Hidden Struggles of Our Children: A Comprehensive Guide for Parents
Introduction: In today's rapidly evolving digital and social landscape, children and teenagers face a myriad of challenges that can often be hidden from their parents. From the use of secret apps and online platforms to issues like sexting and substance use, including marijuana, these challenges can significantly impact their emotional and spiritual well-being. As parents, it's crucial to be aware of these potential struggles and know how to effectively guide and support our children through them.
Acknowledging the Spectrum of Challenges: The range of issues that children may secretly grapple with is broad. It can include digital dangers like secret apps, cyberbullying, or exposure to inappropriate content, as well as more traditional issues like peer pressure, sexting, or experimenting with substances like marijuana. Recognizing the breadth of these potential challenges is the first step in being prepared to address them.
Creating a Foundation of Trust and Open Communication: The cornerstone of navigating these issues is establishing a relationship with your child based on trust and open communication. Encourage honest discussions, listen actively, and create a safe space where your child feels comfortable sharing their experiences and concerns without fear of judgment or immediate punishment.
Staying Informed and Proactive: In the digital age, staying informed about the latest trends, apps, and social media platforms is essential. Understand the technology your child uses and be aware of the signs that may indicate misuse, such as changes in behavior, secrecy, or withdrawal from family activities.
Addressing Issues with Empathy and Support: Whether it's confronting risky behaviors like sexting or substance use, or addressing the misuse of digital platforms, approach these conversations with empathy and support. Aim to understand the 'why' behind their actions. This understanding can guide your response and help in finding constructive solutions.
Leading by Spiritual and Moral Example: Your own conduct and values play a significant role in guiding your child. Demonstrate how faith, moral values, and responsible behavior in both the digital and real world can provide a strong foundation for decision-making. Share how your spiritual beliefs can be a source of strength and guidance in difficult times.
Encouraging Responsible Digital Citizenship: Educate your child about the responsibilities that come with using digital platforms. Discuss the importance of privacy, the consequences of sharing personal information, and the long-term impact of their digital footprint.
Seeking Professional Guidance When Necessary: Recognize when an issue is beyond what can be managed at home. Don't hesitate to seek professional advice from counselors, educators, or healthcare providers when confronting more serious issues like substance abuse or mental health concerns.
Conclusion: As parents, it's our responsibility to guide our children through the complex maze of modern challenges. By being informed, creating a trusting environment, leading by example, and providing unwavering support, we can help them navigate these challenges successfully. Remember, while we cannot shield them from every difficulty, we can equip them with the tools, wisdom, and love they need to make healthy choices and grow into responsible, well-rounded individuals.