Home School Heartbeat Radio Program

Mike Farris:
Marcia, in a large homeschool family, children are generally at many different stages of emotional development. How should parents vary their approach to encourage emotional development at different stages of the child's growth?

Marcia Somerville:
Wow, Mike, that is a big question! We’ve talked about stages of learning this week, and I think similar things can be said about emotional stages. You know, while we as parents may vaguely know and remember things about hormones and hurt feelings and guy-girl interests, it’s easy to get busy and overlook these aspects of our children’s development.

So I think simple awareness of the emotional component of parenting is important—and to address it purposely. For instance, I know James Dobson has written books on approaching adolescence, where you and your child can prepare for the changes that are going to come upon your family and your child.

And with awareness, another tip that I would have for families is to slow down. A lot of us are pressured to do a lot of activities that maybe God wouldn’t have us doing, so that we could have more time to listen and look and help our children process their emotional challenges as they go through their growing up years.

Mike:
Marcia, those are great suggestions. Next time, we’ll talk about social development. I’m Mike Farris.