How do I teach my son not to be ashamed of his faith at school? | DadHQ

Forums Faith & FamilyHow do I teach my son not to be ashamed of his faith at school?

How do I teach my son not to be ashamed of his faith at school?

Mar 5·1 min read

My 10 year old came home saying some kids made fun of him for saying grace before lunch. He didn't want to go back to school the next day. I'm trying to help him understand that standing up for what he believes is important but also that he doesn't need to cram it down anyone's throat. He's nervous now about being the 'weird Christian kid' and I'm worried about how he's going to navigate this. How have you guys helped your kids handle peer pressure around their beliefs?

3 comments129 views

Comments(3)

MMiles B.RegularMar 5

Tough situation. At that age, peer pressure is real. Maybe talk to his teacher too and see if there's a way to make it clear to the class that all different beliefs are respected. Sometimes adults backing up the kid makes a huge difference.

DDanny R.RegularMar 5

Man, that's tough. Kids can be really cruel about things they don't understand. I'd maybe help him see that saying grace is something to be proud of, not ashamed of. Maybe role-play some responses he could give if kids tease him again?

WWill R.RegularMar 5

This hits different when it's your kid being singled out. My advice would be to validate his feelings first, let him know it's okay to be upset, then help him understand that doing what's right sometimes means standing alone. That's a lesson that'll serve him way beyond lunch.