How Our Childhood Shapes Us—And How We Can Shape Our Children
Homeschool
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Have you ever stopped to think about how much your childhood has influenced the person you are today? The joys, struggles, and lessons from those early years leave lasting imprints on our hearts. Some of us have childhood memories filled with warmth, love, and security. Others endured difficulties, pain, or loneliness. Yet, no matter our backgrounds, we all share one thing in common—our experiences as children helped shape who we are today.
Recently, I asked my Facebook friends to share about their childhoods, and their responses were powerful. Some were raised in loving Christian homes where faith was the foundation. Others faced trauma, brokenness, and deep wounds. Yet, one thing stood out in every story—God was at work, drawing hearts to Him, even in the hardest places.
Childhood Stories: Shaped by Joy, Pain, and God’s Grace
Some shared memories of faith-filled homes:
“I had strong Christian parents who served God and the church. All four siblings followed in their footsteps.” —Charlene Robinson Clevenger
“My parents loved God and each other, and that love flowed into us kids, our homes, our extended families, and the neighborhood.” —Rosemarie Daher Kowalski
“Raised by a strong, loving mother with the help of a supportive church family.” —Jenny McLeod Carlisle
Others recalled deep hardship:
“Until I was about 8 or 9, it was perfection—swimming, playing, fishing with siblings. But somewhere along the way, my dad became an alcoholic and my mother’s mental illness took over, so dysfunction became our norm.” —Tracy Ruckman
“I learned what I didn’t want to do when I grew up.” —Melanie Utley
“Too painful.” —Glenda Smith Dixon
Still, many saw God’s hand in their lives despite the trials they endured:
“My mom was a praying Christian woman! I accepted the Lord at age 5 at the foot of my mom’s bed. Even through difficult years, God’s grace covered me, and now He makes me fishers of men!” —Sharena Jagger
“Jesus saved me from myself and is faithful for all I need. Love flows from Him for each other.” —Voni Katter
“I know my great-grandma prayed daily to God. By the grace of God, I was drawn to friends with families of strong faith.” —Cherie Denna
These stories remind us that the seeds planted in childhood—whether seeds of faith or seeds of struggle—continue to grow and shape who we become. And as parents, we have the incredible opportunity to plant seeds that will bear fruit for generations to come.
How We Can Shape Our Children’s Future
Whether we were raised in a loving, faith-filled home or one filled with hardship, we have a choice in how we raise our children today. We get to be the ones who show them love, stability, and the truth of God’s Word.
As homeschool parents, we have a unique opportunity to shape not only our children’s minds but also their hearts. We get to show them—daily—what it looks like to follow Jesus, to love deeply, and to serve with joy.
Deuteronomy 6:6-7 reminds us of this great calling:
"These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up."
It’s not about grand gestures or perfect parenting. It’s about the small, consistent ways we show our kids love and teach them about Jesus.
5 Small Daily Habits That Make a Big Impact on Our Children
- Pray Over Them Daily
Lay hands on your children and pray for them out loud. Let them hear you ask God for wisdom, protection, and blessings over their lives. Knowing they are covered in prayer will give them a deep sense of security.
📖 “The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” —James 5:16 - Speak Words of Life
Tell your kids often that they are loved, valued, and have a purpose in God’s plan. Our words shape their inner voice.
📖 “Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.” —Proverbs 16:24 - Create a Safe and Loving Home
Our kids need a home where they feel safe, heard, and cherished. Take time to listen—really listen—to their joys, fears, and dreams.
📖 “My people will live in peaceful dwelling places, in secure homes, in undisturbed places of rest.” —Isaiah 32:18 - Teach Them to Serve
Show your children what it means to put others first, whether by helping a neighbor, serving at church, or writing an encouraging note to a friend.
📖 “Serve one another humbly in love.” —Galatians 5:13 - Read God’s Word Together
Make Bible reading a daily habit in your homeschool. Even if it’s just a few verses in the morning, let your children see that God’s Word is a priority in your home.
📖 “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” —Psalm 119:105
How Did Your Childhood Shape You?
Thinking back on your childhood, what experiences shaped you into the person you are today? Were there moments of joy and love that you carry with you? Were there struggles that made you stronger?
Most importantly, how has God used your story for His glory?
I’d love for you to share your story in the comments—your story matters! As we reflect on our pasts, let’s also look ahead with hope, knowing that our daily choices shape the future of our children.
May we raise them with love, guide them with wisdom, and lead them always toward Jesus.
Blessings,
Tricia
Resources
Here are some books to help you with your parenting!
- How to Create a Legacy Bible
- Faith That Sticks
- The Grumble-Free Year
- Generation NeXt Parenting
- Lead Your Family Like Jesus
