God wires each one of us uniquely. Which is why learning who your children are, how they think, and what motivates them are critical skills to develop.
Years ago, when my older son Trent was in elementary school, he came home and said, “Guess what, Dad? I won a gold medal! In chess!” I still feel a guilty about that moment because I thought, “Really? Chess?” I had hoped that he’d want to be a football player like me.
Thankfully, I made a good decision and enjoyed my son’s success right along with him.
Learning to understand and embrace your child’s God-given personality can be challenging, especially when they’re so different from you, but it’s the best approach to parenting.
We’re sharing tips for helping your children become the best they can be on our Focus on the Family Broadcast “Nurturing Your Child’s Personality.”
Our guest is author Hettie Britz, who is sharing how the four main personality types can help you better nurture, communicate, and discipline your children. These “categories” aren’t intended to label your child but to highlight your son or daughter’s uniqueness.
Hettie uses trees as metaphors because, like children, trees of the same species may be different sizes and shapes, or react differently across the seasons of life:
- Palm trees: Jovial individuals with a love for people.
- Rose bushes: Determined leaders.
- Boxwood trees: Quality controllers/perfectionists.
- Pine trees: Peaceful/calm.
Hear my full conversation with Hettie on your local radio station, online, on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or take us with you on our free phone app.
I’d like to extend an invitation for you to become a special partner with us through our monthly “Friends of Focus on the Family” program. When you do, I’ll send you a copy of Hettie Britz’s book Growing Kids with Character: Nurturing Your Child’s Potential, Purpose, and Passion as a way of saying thank you for touching others with the love of Christ. You’ll also receive member-exclusive benefits. To make your pledge, or for more information, visit our website or call 1-800-A-FAMILY (232-6459).
We’ve also got a free parenting assessment for you at our website. It will quickly give you an overview of how your family is doing in several key areas. It also offers suggestions for improving the relationships in your home.
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Kibbie Hoobler says
-Great article but too little too late. I have grown sons and although I listened to Focus on the Family daily for several years I did not do a good job of raising them. I did enjoy reading the article. Thanks for sending it to me.
Sandra says
-I would like to receive a copy of the book, Growing kids with character by Hettie Britz please.
Thank You
Sandra
YashaFOTF says
-Thanks, Sandra, for coming to us with your inquiry. Please visit our website (https://bit.ly/3NlpN2K) to request a copy of Growing Kids With Character by Hettie Brittz for your donation of any amount.