From time to time I hear fellow kids ministers say, “Kids Ministry would be great if all we had to do was deal with kids!” So true! However, those in kids ministry quickly learn that along with those kids come parents, families, and leaders. A great percentage of our time is actually spent with adults.
Today, let’s talk about parents. Today’s parents are very busy, possibly over scheduled, and they practice a lot of “helicopter parenting.” They hover over their kids, rescue their kids from many learning experiences, and from time to time have tunnel vision related to their kids weaknesses.
When dealing with difficult parents (which, by the way, any of us can be diffiult at times!) consider these options:
1. When confronted by an angry parent:
Try this: Remember that Scripture teaches that a soft answer turns away wrath. (Proverbs 15:1)
Not That: Argue and attempt to justify your own actions/decisions.
2. Once you have learned that a certain parent can be a challenge:
Try This: Pray for these parents by name. Let them know that you have prayed for them in a positive way.
Not That: Distance yourselves from these parents and avoid them.
3. When talking with parents about a child’s challenging behavior:
Try This: Make the parents aware that you love their child, are glad he is in your ministry, but, let them know that when he chooses to “_______”, you are having trouble knowing what to do. Ask them, “What do you do?”
Not That: State that the child is disruptive and he can never come back to church activities!
4. When parents and families are in the midst of a crisis:
Try This: Just be there for them!
Not That: Feel like you have to preach a sermon and know every Bible verse that deals with that crisis.
