Quote:
Originally Posted by OBW
I have to agree. And agree with Jane's comments on this as well.
I also think it goes deeper. We need to let our children encounter the opinions of the world. They do not need to be ignorant of the popular culture of the day, whether it is the trend to immorality, or efforts to define God our of existence through science and other academic pursuits. They need to have had a serious consideration of evolution, postmodern's "no absolute truth," and even many of society's ills before they leave the home. While there are valid reasons for home schooling, I have always tended away from it for this reason. It is better to send them to a Christian private school.
If we have an open relationship with our children, they can come and talk about anything. And even when we butt heads, they will know that we are not just being mean and controlling. The best way to prepare for life in the world is to begin that experience with an adviser. Who better than the ones who managed to keep you alive to age 5 and beyond.
(On the Christian private school suggestion, I remember someone (I think it was Ray Graver) talking about his daughter's experience with the girl's basketball team at the little Christian school she went to (Baptist, I think). It was not some "protected" environment, even if the adults and teachers thought it was. They stopped at a convenience store on the way to a tournament and most of the girls were shoplifting.)
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The successes I have seen in this area (both mine and others) seem to have these key factors irrespective of the culture, background, or church community:
1. Unconditional love & open, unselfish communication
2. Early and continuous training & consistency in teaching
3. Prayer & Faith
4. Staying calm
5. Trusting your kids & helping them to know they can trust you
6. In the area of teaching the virtue of abstinence, follow steps 1-5.