Don’t waste this time: Helping your teen live intentionally
Life right now is different, even weird. It seems a new obstacle is presented daily. For teenagers and parents alike, it can be easy to become distracted by the changes and challenges.
Yet even in the uncertainty, God is in control and has a plan. The Bible teaches us:
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him and he will make straight your paths.” (Prov. 3:5-6)
Making intentional goals
As we look ahead to additional time at home and the absence of some extracurricular activities in the months ahead, it’s important to make plans so that we don’t waste these days. We need intentionality to help navigate this season well and not waste these days.
Consider setting aside time with your teenager and having each family member make a list of your plans and goals to expand your interests, skills and talents. Encourage teens to include dreams they would like to accomplish by age 18.
Share the lists with one another, negotiate, set deadlines and get started. Review your mutual progress once a week, month or quarter. Evaluate and reset. Rewards or more responsibility may be included in the process.
Here are a few practical and teen-appropriate ideas to consider as you get started:
Practical goals and responsibilities
Learn to do personal laundry.
Take care of personal hygiene.
Learn basic budgeting.
Learn how to plan a grocery list and go shopping.
Learn meal preparation using a recipe.
Complete basic house chores.
Complete basic home repairs.
Learn to sew a button.
Learn to drive or navigate a bus route and follow a map.
Learn basic car maintenance, such as filling a car with gas, adding air to a tire and changing a tire.
Learn how to read and understand medicine labels and dosages.
Academic goals and responsibilities
Commit to do your best at school, regardless of the format and the challenges. As Christians we can live as examples of Christ as students.
Take responsibility for your daily schedule and school work.
Engage in class discussion without prompting.
Develop your skills to write a story.
Learn how to study for a test.
Explore post-high school options: work, military, trade, university.
Shadow someone in a career you might be interested in.
Social goals and responsibilities
Learn to be comfortable with introducing yourself or having a short conversation with a new acquaintance.
Make personal appointments such as the dentist or haircuts.
Reach out to a senior family member or friend and contact them weekly to offer support.
Learn to ask questions and initiate discussions.
Hold a part-time job.
Spiritual goals and responsibilities
Develop and maintain a daily time with God through reading Scripture.
Seek to deep a personal prayer life.
If needed, find a Bible appropriate for student’s age and understanding.
If student is a Christian, write out and practice sharing their personal faith journey/testimony.
Memorize Psalm 23 and the Lord’s Prayer.
Commit to being active in youth group. Whether online or in person, go all in! Make the most of every opportunity.
Find a spiritual mentor.
Mentor a younger teen or child from your congregation. Your youth leader can help with this connection.
Parents, be sure to create your own list and set an example for your teens. Keep it simple, but be intentional.
We are in a difficult time, but the New Testament is filled with verses letting believers know trials will come. Christ-followers are not left alone in this season. Let’s make the most of the time God has given us!
Allyson Clark serves as Next Generation Co-Director of Youth Ministries at the Baptist Convention of New England.