Parent to Parent: Religion

WSVN--By looking at the Nelson and Johnson families, you wouldn't know they had just met six years ago.

But these best friends coincidentally came together because they wanted to be more involved in their church.

Elyse Nelson: "When I got married and we decided to have children, we knew we wanted to raise them with a faith."

Jane Johnson: "We just fell in love with the place and it really changed our lives. It made such a difference."

And they're not alone.

Many new parents join churches or synagogues as a way to instill morals in their children.

Jane Johnson: "You want to feel that you're equipping them with the right morals, the right foundation, the right beliefs that will give them the kind of grounding that they need in their life."

But 7 Parenting Expert Dr. Debbie says you don't have to be a part of an organized religion to raise a spiritual kid.

Dr. Debbie Glasser: "The good news about promoting a sense of faith or raising spiritual children is there are no hard and fast rules."

Begin by talking to your spouse about what message you want to pass onto your children.

Just keep in mind, this can be difficult if you're a two faith family.

Dr. Debbie: "In some families, they will both agree to choose one religion for their children. And in other families, they choose to blend the religion and sort of bring a little of each."

If you do choose a religion, allow your kids to ask questions.

Then, bring your faith into everyday life.

Don't just practice during major holidays.

Dr. Debbie: "You can read from a prayer book, whether or not you're in a house of worship. You can find your belief system whereever you are. The key is to be consistent and to be there."

But if you don't choose a religion, try volunteering to teach values.

Dr. Debbie: "We can promote that sense of spirit and of giving in some sort of charitable act to teach your kids that we're all here together."

Jane has found special meaning in volunteering.

She runs her church's childrens ministry with her friend Elyse right by her side.

Jane Johnson: "That's why we're passionate about decorating and putting on good music and skits and silly things for the kids because that's what drives us, it's our faith and our hope."

Elyse Nelson: "It's definitely bettered us. It's made us stronger. It will sustain us through difficult times."

Lynn Martinez: "Talk to other families or even a religious leader if you are still struggling with your decision."

IF YOU HAVE A CONCERN DR. DEBBIE CAN HELP YOU WITH E-MAIL US AT:
parent@wsvn.com

DR. DEBBIE GLASSER'S WEBSITE:
newsforparents.org

First Baptist Church Of Pompano Beach
954-745-6100
138 NE 1st Street
Pompano Beach, FL 33060
www.fbcpompano.org