How do I talk to my kids about why we do things differently than their friends' families? | DadHQ

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How do I talk to my kids about why we do things differently than their friends' families?

3w ago·1 min read

My kids are getting to the age where they notice we do things differently. No secular music in the car, we don't watch certain shows, we go to church on Wednesday nights too, etc. They're starting to ask why they can't have certain stuff or do certain things their friends do. I want to explain our values without sounding judgmental of other families or making my kids feel weird. How do you guys handle these conversations? I want them to own their faith not just follow my rules.

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Comments(4)

JJayRegular3w ago

I keep this simple with my kids. I explain our values matter to us and ask them to respect that even if their friends do things differently. Kids are more understanding than we give them credit for.

CChris P.Regular3w ago

How old are they? The conversation changes depending on age. When mine hit middle school this became a bigger deal but talking through it early helps set expectations.

MManuelRegular3w ago

The no secular music thing is tough when all their friends are listening to pop radio. Maybe let them have some autonomy to find artists they connect with that align with your values? Gives them agency while you maintain boundaries.

LLance K.Regular3w ago

This is a tough one. We've had similar conversations with our kids about why we do things our way. The key is being honest without being preachy about it. Help them understand the why, not just the what.