Definition
Verse
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16″We love because he first loved us.” 1 John 4:19
“Greater love has no one that this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” John 15:13.
“Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.'” This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.'” Matthew 22:37-38
Values for Children: Activities
- Love is an Action: John 15:13 dispels the popular myth that love is just a feeling. It demands action! When talking to your children about love, emphasize the ways that they can show their love for you. Telling you is not enough. But by obeying you with a positive attitude, they show their love for you and for God.
- Sacrifice: For true love to exist there must be sacrifice. One thing we do to help our children experience this is to skip a meal once a month. We put the money we would have spent on that meal in a jar and when the jar is full we give it to children in need.
- Expression: Sometimes the busyness of our lives distracts from what is really important. Make sure you set aside time to express your love to your children. Take at least 5 minutes a day to hug, kiss, and tell them how much you love them.
- Love Comes From a Nurturing Spirit: Help your children experience a parent’s love by putting them in charge of an other’s care. Your child may be very young, but she can still play with her younger siblings and make sure they are safe under your supervision. Teach her specific dangers that she needs to look out for. Only have one child? You could get them a pet to care for or volunteer to babysit a younger child once a week. If you give your children the authority and teach them how to care for others, they will develop a nurturing spirit in which love will naturally flow.
This was one of my favorite books when I was young. It shows a mother’s love for her child throughout his years. With 15 million copies sold, it is a powerful love story. Warning: tissues necessary. Ages 1+
The Easter Story
– God’s love shown through the ultimate sacrifice. The classic Easter story is told with beautiful illustrations and simple text. Young children will love this version of the Lord’s burial and resurrection. Ages 2+
Strong character and social finesse are essential for success in life. The books included in this set will teach your children to act in accordance with Biblical virtues, like: love for God, respect for authority, hard work, self-discipline, personal accountability, and an awareness and concern for others.
These books give parents practical ideas for fostering these virtues in their children’s day to day lives. We have also included Responsibility Charts that help help parents systematically introduce chores and responsibilities to their children.
Activities that Teach Values: Love
Peacock Heart Craft – True Love
I decided just yesterday (before seeing this post) to print out one of your Book of Virtues pictures. I’m seeing some need for character training in my children (Always, right? And in me too!) and I love the beautiful pictures in it, so I thought it would be a nice reminder on our office/schoolroom wall. I always love the focus of your posts, thank you for sharing!
I would love for you to share and link up at my weekly TGIF Link Party if you haven’t already this week. Your favorite posts, most popular, recent or new! The party is open every Thursday night and closes Tuesday’s at midnight. Followed by (Not SO) Wordless Wednesday! http://apeekintomyparadise.blogspot.com/.
I would be honored if you join us and follow to stay connected Have a wonderful week!
Hugs, Cathy
Janine, your heartfelt post about your journey with autism is truly touching. Your words shed light on the challenges and triumphs, helping raise awareness and understanding. Your son’s uniqueness shines through, and your advocacy is inspiring.