One of my favorite family traditions occurs a few days before school. Each year we sit down as a family and I give each of our kids a word that will be their focus. I think and pray about what word would best fit their personality, what area they might need to improve in, and what would present a challenge for them. I explain the reason why I chose the word and present them with a sign to put on the wall as a reminder.

I have found this idea to be a great way for Carrie and me to be intentional with our kids throughout the year. It also helps facilitate great dinner conversations during the week.

I would encourage you to find ways to be strategic and intentional with your family as the school year begins. The time goes by fast so make the most of it.

Here are the words for our three kids this year. I pray that they can be an encouragement to you on your quest to be a strategic parent.

Our 17 year old son

Finish - to bring to completion

2 Timothy 4:7 - “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”

Famous Quote on Finishing Strong:
“Start strong, stay strong, and finish strong by always remembering why you are doing it in the first place.”

My prayer for you this year is that you live the life that God has called you to live, you use your gifts and talents for His glory and not your own, and you finish strong in everything you start.

Our 12 year old son

Brave - having or showing courage

Joshua 1:9 - “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

Famous Quote on Being Brave:
“Being brave doesn’t mean never being afraid. It means going for it anyways because you know it is the right thing to do.”

My prayer for you this year is that you are brave in standing up for what it right and setting the example of what it means to live for God’s glory and love others.

Our 7 year old daughter

Courteous - polite, respectful, and considerate

Famous Quote on Being Courteous:
“You will accomplish more by kind words and a courteous manner than by anger.”

Ephesians 4:32 “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.”

See One Word Tradition for the words I chose last year.