Setting unrealistic goals just results in exhaustion, failure, and that pervasive feeling of guilt and failure.

So don’t try and imagine elaborate activities followed by deep conversations around the Word of God. With visions of eager-to-learn, compliant, calm children hanging on your every word. That’s just a set-up for disappointment!

Remember kids are kids! And changing their routine and your expectations of them is better done gradually and with intention rather than suddenly.
So start small. This will look different for each family, but it may mean you:

• Start by having family devotions once a week
• Set a goal of spending 10 minutes at a supper time reading a Bible passage and praying together

It’s okay to start small. Just start somewhere!

As you plan your devotional time together, consider the age and activity level of your kids. Some people learn best or focus better while moving; others need stillness and quiet. Some kids will listen more attentively while colouring a picture.

Adjust your activities, the resources you use, and the time you spend according to the needs of your kids and your family. Understanding your kids’ abilities, interests, and learning styles calibrates your expectations and helps you plan.

Life is hectic so intentionally set a specific time to gather together otherwise family devotions will get overlooked or crowded out.

Look at your schedule and see what fits best and then make family devotions part of your family’s rhythm. Use those ordinary moments you are already together as a family. Find what works best and seek to be consistent.

Your plan doesn’t need to be elaborate, but having an idea of what you’d like to focus on or what you will do during your family devotion time is helpful.

However, hold your plan loosley, God may speak in a way we hadn’t planned! Sometimes the kids will have questions and your conversation may go in a different direction or God might prompt you to do something different than you usually do - that’s okay! A plan is helpful, but you want to follow the Holy Spirit’s lead.

While it’s wonderful for your kids to know Bible stories, remember Bible facts, and retain information about the Bible, your goal  is not just for your kids to retain information. You want to see life transformation!

Ask God daily to be at work in and through you and in the hearts and lives of your children. God does not only speak to adults - God speaks to children, too! Part of our responsibility in leading our children spiritually is helping our kids listen to and respond to God.

Don’t complicate this important time together. Ask God to guide you and go get started! A typical devotion time will consist of some bible reading, discussion and prayer.