One of the most fun aspects of parenting a grade school-aged child is that they’re mature enough to really deeply develop and share their hobbies and interests. Kids ages 6 to 10 are often very open and excited to explore new activities, discovering passions, and developing skills that can shape their identity and future pursuits. In this article, we delve into God’s vision for understanding ourselves and how our passions can help discern His plan for our lives, why hobbies are essential at this age, and finally, how parents can effectively engage with their children's interests (even when conversations seem never-ending!).
Biblical Insights to Help Kids Discover Their Gifts and Purpose
As Christian parents, nurturing our children's identity and purpose is a sacred responsibility. The Bible provides profound wisdom on how we can guide our children in discovering their unique gifts, talents, and God-given purpose. Here, we explore what Scripture teaches about identity, the development of talents for God's glory, and discerning God's purpose in our lives, offering practical insights for fostering these in our children.
Understanding Identity and Personhood
- Created in God's Image: Genesis 1:27 reminds us that God created humanity in His own image, imbuing each person with inherent dignity, worth, and a purposeful design. As parents, we are called to nurture this understanding in our children, helping them recognize their value and identity as beloved children of God.
- Uniquely Designed: Psalm 139:13-14 celebrates God's intimate involvement in forming each individual: "For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother's womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made." This passage underscores the uniqueness of every child, encouraging us to embrace and cultivate their distinct personalities, talents, and interests.
Developing Gifts and Talents for God's Glory
- Stewardship of Gifts: Romans 12:6-8 teaches about spiritual gifts given to each believer for the common good. As parents, we can help our children identify and develop their gifts—whether in areas of creativity, leadership, compassion, or intellect—empowering them to use these talents to serve others and glorify God.
- Excellence in All Things: Colossians 3:23 instructs us, "Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men." This principle encourages our children to pursue excellencein their endeavors, whether academic, artistic, athletic, or vocational. This doesn't mean they must be the best, rather, it means we are discipling them in recognizing that all talents can be honed and dedicated to honoring God and His image bearers.
Discovering God's Purpose
- Seeking God's Will: Proverbs 3:5-6 encourages us to trust in the Lord with all our hearts and lean not on our own understanding, but to acknowledge Him in all our ways, and He will direct our paths. Instilling this trust in God's guidance from an early age helps children discern His purpose for their lives through prayer, reflection on Scripture, and seeking wise counsel.
- Living Out God's Calling: Ephesians 2:10 affirms that "we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them." As parents, we can help our children explore various interests and experiences, guiding them to discern how their talents can align with God's kingdom purposes and contribute positively to the world.
The Developmental Significance of Hobbies
Hobbies serve as more than just ways to pass the time; they play a vital role in a child's holistic development:
- Identity Formation: Exploring different hobbies allows children to discover what they enjoy and excel at, which contributes to building their sense of self.
- Skill Development: Engaging in hobbies teaches valuable skills such as patience, perseverance, creativity, and problem-solving, all of which are crucial for academic and social success.
- Emotional Well-being: Hobbies provide a positive outlet for stress relief and expression, fostering emotional resilience and a sense of accomplishment.
- Social Interaction: Many hobbies involve group activities or clubs, which help children develop social skills, empathy, and teamwork.
Connecting with Children in Their Interests
While knowing how important hobbies are is really valuable, getting involved in your kids' interests can sometimes be tricky for parents–especially when their enthusiasm seems endless! If you find yourself thinking: if I hear the word Minecraft one more time I might go crazy–it’s okay. I’ve been there! Here are some good ways to connect with your kids that will help them feel seen and appreciated (while protecting your sanity):
- Be Present and Participate: Actively participate in your child's hobby by joining them during practice sessions, games, or creative projects. Your presence shows support and reinforces their commitment. Practical tip: it’s okay to set a limit like “I’m excited to play catch with you, but I only have 15 minutes this time. I’ll let you know when we’re on our last 5 throws!
- Ask Open-Ended Questions: Show genuine interest by asking open-ended questions about their hobby. This encourages them to share their experiences, challenges, and achievements, deepening their engagement and communication skills. Practical tip: Make sure you actively listen to their answers and provide eye contact, so they feel heard and that your interest is genuine. Again, if you need to set a timeframe beforehand that’s totally fine.
- Share Your Own Interests: Introduce your child to your hobbies and interests. This not only broadens their exposure but also strengthens your bond as you explore new activities together. It also provides a great example for them of lifelong learning. Demonstrate through your own life the joy of serving God faithfully and using your gifts for His glory, serving as a role model for your children's spiritual and personal growth. Practical tip: Be careful not to send messages to your child that you are leading them into copying your interests. If they do happen to share your interest, remember that their relationship to the hobby or sport is their own.
- Create Opportunities for Learning: Help your child expand their hobby-related knowledge by visiting museums, attending workshops, or finding relevant books and resources. This demonstrates your investment in their growth and encourages a thirst for knowledge. Practical tip: this doesn’t have to be expensive–libraries are free and museums often offer discount days.
- Practice Patience: Children can be incredibly passionate about their hobbies, often wanting to discuss them at length. Practice active listening and patience, even when conversations veer into intricate details or repetitive themes. Your attentiveness validates their enthusiasm and fosters open communication. Practical tip: Breathe. Remember that just as little ones reach out their chubby arms for you, sharing their interests is your older child’s way of reaching out for connection. …And, if you need to respectfully excuse yourself for a break, that’s okay, too!
- Encourage Balance: While nurturing hobbies is important, ensure a balance with academics, social activities, and physical exercise. Help your child understand the value of cultivating themselves in multiple areas. Practical tip: look for ways to weave their interest into a different area–for example, play Pokemon Go to get outdoors, or ask their piano teacher if they can learn some Taylor Swift songs to encourage more practice, etc.
- Expect Change: While some kids will latch onto something and never look back, it’s FAR more common for interests to change throughout their growing years (and into adulthood!). Practical tip: For example, if your child wants to quit playing a sport they’ve been very passionate about, encourage them to wait until they’ve had a great practice/game and are riding high–if they still feel like they’re ready to move on–LET THEM. Supporting their autonomy is an incredible way to respect them and build their confidence.
- Don’t Judge. You might wish your child chose to be interested in something you had more interest in, or something you feel has more value. As long as the topic isn’t in opposition to your family’s values, try to remember that this is their journey and you’re along for the ride. Practical tip: Challenge yourself to find value in what they love. For example, many video games develop cognitive skills and creativity.
- Pray for Guidance: Continually pray for wisdom and discernment as you guide your children, trusting in God's provision and timing for revealing His purposes in their lives. Practical tip: Remember that His plan is greater than yours, and He loves your child even more than you do.
Childhood hobbies and interests provide so many avenues for self-expression, skill-building, and social interaction. As parents, actively engaging with your child's interests not only strengthens your relationship but also supports their journey of exploration and growth toward becoming who God made them to be. By being patient listeners, enthusiastic participants, and proactive supporters, you create a nurturing environment where their passions can flourish, laying a foundation for fulfilled adulthood, living out God’s unique calling for their lives.
