Children’s Role in Building Strong Families
“If God created families to nurture us, then He designed brothers and sisters to protect us. Building strong families means that brothers and sisters look out for each other, and not just in physical ways. A sibling has given you emotional support and protection more often than you can count, and you have probably done the same for your own brother or sister.” Siblings have a unique opportunity to show their love and support for their families in a variety of ways. For instance, a brother may show his support of his sister by attending a sporting event in which she is a participant. In the same way, a sister may show her support to her brother by offering advice on what he should wear to the school dance. Whatever the circumstance, brothers and sisters need each other and parents need to foster that relationship by emphasizing how important family members are to each other.
When our youngest daughter, Christine was about 10 years old, she got my attention by saying, “Mom, Alex is being nice to me!” I thought to myself, that is a good thing. It is a fantastic display of family support when siblings are actually nice to each other. Christine was not feeling well that particular day and Alex, my younger son was trying to be nice to her and help her out. On those “rare” occasions that siblings do find ways to help each other, parents should take the time to praise their efforts. Encourage them to find other ways to help support and love their siblings.
“God put you together with siblings in the first place, so you could share burdens, challenges, and victories – great and small. You have a special bond because you are people linked by a common heritage, and you are people forging a common legacy.”
Children Play a Role in Building Strong Families
Below are a few key things for parents to think about when considering the needs of their siblings. Next, apply these same ideas to your children.
- “Tell your brothers and sisters how much you love and appreciate them.” Call them often or email them
- Anticipate your sibling’s needs and offer to help them as needed
- As a Christian, you share a common bond with your fellow brothers and sisters in Christ. Remember to forgive.
- Call your siblings on their birthdays. Celebrate and reminisce about the things you shared when you were younger.
- Rejoice with your brothers and sisters when they succeed and share in their sorrows as well.
Friends may come and go in your life but family is the place you can come home to when the world does not treat you right. Theophanes Venard writes, “Happiness is to be found only in the home where God is loved and honored, where each one loves, and helps and cares for the others.” May it be so in your home.
Reference: “God Is In the Small Stuff for Your Family” by Bruce Bickel and Stan Jantz